How much sugar is in Pepsi Max?

January 7, 2026 •

3 min read

Pepsi Max famously contains zero sugar. Unlike traditional soft drinks that rely on high-fructose corn syrup or sugar for sweetness, Pepsi Max is formulated to deliver a maximum cola taste without any caloric sugar content, appealing to consumers conscious of their sugar intake.

Quick Summary

Pepsi Max is a zero-calorie, sugar-free soft drink that uses artificial sweeteners, specifically aspartame and acesulfame K, to achieve its signature bold flavor. It contains no sugar and very few calories, making it a popular low-calorie alternative to regular Pepsi.

Key Points

Zero Sugar: Pepsi Max contains no sugar and is a zero-calorie cola alternative.
Artificial Sweeteners: The drink is sweetened with aspartame and acesulfame potassium, not real sugar.
High Caffeine: Pepsi Max typically contains a higher amount of caffeine compared to regular and Diet Pepsi.
Weight Management Tool: It can be used as a tool for weight management by reducing caloric intake from sugary drinks.
Health Considerations: While considered safe by regulatory bodies, the long-term effects of artificial sweeteners on weight, gut health, and other factors are still debated.

The Zero-Sugar Sweetener Blend

Pepsi Max achieves its zero-sugar, maximum taste through artificial sweeteners. Instead of sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, it uses a blend of aspartame and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K).

Aspartame is a high-intensity sweetener, approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is made of two amino acids and provides much of Pepsi Max's sweetness. Due to phenylalanine, aspartame products require a warning for individuals with PKU.

Acesulfame K is another zero-calorie sweetener often paired with aspartame to create a balanced flavor profile and minimize aftertaste, aiming for a taste close to regular cola.

Ingredients in Pepsi Max

Carbonated Water
Colour (Caramel E150d)
Sweeteners (Aspartame, Acesulfame K)
Acids (Phosphoric Acid, Citric Acid)
Flavourings (Including Caffeine)
Preservative (Potassium Sorbate)

Pepsi Max vs. Regular Pepsi: A Nutritional Comparison

Comparing Pepsi Max to regular Pepsi highlights significant nutritional differences, primarily in sugar and calorie content. This is a key reason for choosing the zero-sugar option.


Feature	Pepsi Max	Regular Pepsi
Sugar Content	0g per 330ml can	~4.55g per 100ml (recent formula)
Calories	~1 kcal per 330ml can	~139 kcal per 330ml can (recent formula)
Sweeteners	Aspartame, Acesulfame K	Sugar (and other sweeteners since 2023)
Caffeine Content	Typically higher than regular Pepsi (~69mg per 12 oz)	Standard amount for a regular cola (~38mg per 12 oz)
Taste Profile	Maximum taste, zero sugar, bold flavor	Classic, sugary cola

The Debate Surrounding Artificial Sweeteners

The safety of artificial sweeteners like those in Pepsi Max is a topic of ongoing discussion.

Are Artificial Sweeteners Safe?

Major health organizations, including the FDA, consider aspartame and acesulfame K safe when consumed within acceptable daily intake levels. The IARC has also evaluated aspartame regarding cancer links.

The Impact on Weight and Metabolism

Research on artificial sweeteners' effect on weight and metabolism is mixed. Some studies suggest potential interference with metabolic processes, while others indicate that replacing sugary drinks with diet versions can aid weight loss. Further research is necessary.

Effects on Gut Microbiome

Emerging studies explore how artificial sweeteners might alter gut bacteria composition. While the gut microbiome is vital for health, the long-term impact of these potential changes is not yet fully understood.

Making an Informed Choice

Choosing Pepsi Max should align with individual dietary goals. While it provides a sugar-free cola option, it is not a health food and moderation is key.

Benefits of a sugar-free alternative like Pepsi Max can include:

Weight Management: Reducing empty calories may support weight loss.
Diabetes Control: Artificial sweeteners do not impact blood sugar, making it suitable for managing blood glucose.
Dental Health: Avoiding sugar can reduce the risk of tooth decay, though acidity remains a factor.

Considerations include taste preference and personal stance on artificial additives. Informed decisions based on ingredients and moderation are essential.

Conclusion

Pepsi Max contains no sugar, distinguishing it from regular Pepsi. Its sweetness comes from aspartame and acesulfame K. This zero-sugar option is appealing for those managing sugar and calorie intake, like individuals focused on weight or blood sugar. However, awareness of artificial sweeteners and the ongoing health discussions surrounding them is important for consumption within a balanced diet. For additional product details, refer to the official Pepsi MAX UK product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Pepsi Max contains zero sugar. It is a sugar-free cola that uses artificial sweeteners for its taste.

Pepsi Max is sweetened with a combination of two artificial sweeteners: aspartame and acesulfame K.

Pepsi Max has significantly fewer calories, with approximately 1 kcal per 330ml can. Regular Pepsi has about 139 kcal per can of the same size.

Yes, regulatory bodies like the FDA have determined that the artificial sweeteners in Pepsi Max are safe for general consumption within acceptable daily intake levels. However, individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should be aware of the aspartame content.

In many markets, including Europe and Australia, Pepsi Max is the same as Pepsi Zero Sugar. The name and branding can vary by region.

While replacing sugary drinks with zero-calorie options like Pepsi Max can reduce overall calorie intake and potentially aid in weight loss, some studies have mixed results on the long-term impact. More research is needed.

Yes, while Pepsi Max is formulated to have a 'maximum taste' similar to regular Pepsi, the use of artificial sweeteners gives it a slightly different flavor profile. Some find it bolder or less sweet, while others can detect the distinct aftertaste of the sweeteners.