The History of Slice: From Sugary Staple to Health-Conscious Rebrand
For decades, Slice was a popular soft drink brand known for its fruit-flavored varieties. Originally introduced by PepsiCo in 1984, the drink's formula evolved over time, with the 10% fruit juice content being significantly reduced and eventually eliminated in North America. Later versions, such as the mango-flavored Slice in India, contained high levels of sugar, similar to other fruit juice drinks marketed as less unhealthy than carbonated sodas. The original Slice was ultimately discontinued by PepsiCo in the US market in the late 2000s.
However, the brand made a surprising comeback in 2025 when wellness company Suja Life relaunched it with a completely new formula. The new version was designed to align with modern health trends, focusing on gut health and lower sugar content. The contrast between the old and new Slice is stark, and understanding the differences is key to answering whether slice soda is healthy in its current form.
The New Slice: Nutritional Profile and Functional Ingredients
The 2025 Slice is a stark contrast to its ancestor. Instead of relying on high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners, it is naturally sweetened with a blend of organic stevia, organic cane sugar, and real fruit juice. This reformulation dramatically reduces the sugar and calorie count. For example, a 12 fl oz can of the new Lemon-Lime Slice has only 4 grams of sugar and 35 calories, while the Classic Cola has 5 grams of sugar and 40 calories.
Beyond the reduced sugar, the most significant addition is the 'Gutsy Blend,' which includes prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. This makes the new Slice a functional beverage targeting digestive health, a major selling point in the modern wellness market.
The 'Gutsy Blend' Explained
- Prebiotics: These are types of dietary fiber that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. The new Slice includes 5 grams of prebiotic fiber per can.
- Probiotics: These are live, beneficial bacteria that, when consumed, can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
- Postbiotics: These are the healthy byproducts of probiotic bacteria activity and can further support gut health.
Is it a "Healthy" Soda? Context is Key
While the new Slice is undoubtedly a healthier option than traditional high-sugar sodas, it is important to consider it within the broader context of a healthy diet. Comparing it to sugary soft drinks, diet sodas, and plain water reveals where it stands on the health spectrum.
Comparison Table: New Slice vs. Other Beverages
| Feature | New Slice (2025) | Traditional Soda | Diet Soda | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar Content | Low (4-5g per 12oz) | Very High (e.g., 39g in Coke) | Zero | Zero |
| Calories | Low (35-40 per 12oz) | High (e.g., 140 per 12oz) | Zero | Zero |
| Sweetener | Organic Stevia, Cane Sugar, Fruit Juice | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Artificial (e.g., Aspartame) | None |
| Functional Ingredients | Prebiotics, Probiotics, Postbiotics | None | None | None |
| Health Concerns | Moderate processing; vague "natural flavors" | Obesity, diabetes, heart disease, dental decay | Potential long-term health risks, gut impact | None |
| Nutritional Value | Some fiber and gut benefits | Empty calories | Empty calories | Optimal hydration |
Considering Potential Drawbacks
Despite its improvements, the new Slice is not without potential downsides. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has noted that it contains "natural flavor," a term that can mask a complex mixture of chemicals, solvents, and preservatives. This moderate level of processing and the non-specific ingredients may be a concern for some consumers. Additionally, while low in added sugar, it's still a sweetened beverage. Health experts generally recommend water as the best choice for hydration.
The Verdict: A Better Choice, Not a Health Drink
The 2025 Slice is an intriguing example of a legacy brand adapting to a health-conscious market. It is a vast improvement over the sugar-laden sodas of the past and offers some potential functional benefits for gut health. For those who enjoy soda and want a lower-sugar alternative, it's a compelling choice. However, it should not be confused with a genuinely healthy drink like water or unsweetened tea, which provide superior hydration without any added sugars or processing.
Healthier Alternatives to Soda
If you're looking to reduce your soda intake even further or explore truly healthy alternatives, consider these options:
- Infused water: Add slices of fresh fruit, cucumber, or herbs like mint to a pitcher of water for a refreshing, sugar-free drink.
- Sparkling water with juice: For a bubbly fix, mix sparkling water with a splash of 100% fruit juice. Check the label to ensure no added sugar.
- Kombucha: This fermented tea contains natural probiotics and has a satisfying fizz, but be mindful of the sugar content, which can vary by brand.
- Herbal tea: Brew and chill herbal teas for a flavorful, caffeine-free beverage. Adding fresh fruit can enhance the taste.
- Maple water or coconut water: Both offer a naturally sweet flavor and electrolytes, making them excellent choices, especially after a workout.
Conclusion
So, is slice soda healthy? The short answer is that the 2025 version is a significantly healthier option than traditional or even diet sodas due to its low sugar content and gut-friendly ingredients. The move away from high-fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners is a positive step. However, it's not a magical health elixir, and it remains a moderately processed beverage. For optimal health, a diet primarily consisting of water and whole foods is best. When you crave a soda-like treat, the new Slice offers a more nutritionally sound choice than the standard soft drinks on the market. For more information on the new formula, you can visit the official Slice website.
