Demystifying the Sweetness in Poppi
Despite being called 'fake sugar' by some consumers, Poppi's sweetness actually comes from a blend of natural, plant-derived ingredients. The two key non-sugar sweeteners are stevia and agave inulin, complemented by a small amount of organic cane sugar and concentrated fruit juices. This combination allows Poppi to achieve its flavor with 5 grams of sugar or less and fewer than 30 calories per can.
Stevia: A Plant-Based, Zero-Calorie Sweetener
Stevia is a zero-calorie sweetener extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America.
- Extremely Sweet: Stevia is 200–350 times sweeter than regular table sugar, meaning only a very small amount is needed to achieve a significant sweet flavor.
- Zero Impact on Blood Sugar: Unlike sugar, stevia is not metabolized by the body for energy, so it does not contribute calories or cause blood sugar spikes, making it popular for people managing diabetes or weight.
- Potential for Aftertaste: Some individuals are sensitive to stevia's taste and notice a slightly bitter or licorice-like aftertaste, though this can vary by brand and formulation.
Agave Inulin: A Sweet-Tasting Prebiotic Fiber
Agave inulin is a prebiotic fiber sourced from the agave plant. It provides sweetness while also offering potential digestive benefits.
- Dual Function: Agave inulin serves as both a natural sweetener and a source of prebiotic fiber, which feeds beneficial bacteria in the gut.
- Potential Digestive Side Effects: While promoting gut health is a key marketing point for Poppi, some people may experience digestive discomforts like bloating, gas, or nausea from inulin consumption, especially in larger quantities.
Blending for Balance: Cane Sugar and Fruit Juices
To balance the flavor and mouthfeel, Poppi uses a small amount of organic cane sugar and real fruit juice concentrates. This moves it away from being a completely sugar-free product, providing a more complex sweetness profile than sweeteners alone would offer.
Natural Sweeteners vs. Artificial Sweeteners
The term "fake sugar" is often used to refer to artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose. However, stevia and agave inulin are derived from plants, making them natural sweeteners. This distinction is important for many consumers. Poppi's marketing specifically highlights its lack of artificial sweeteners.
Sweetener Comparison: Poppi vs. Traditional Soda
| Feature | Poppi | Traditional Soda (e.g., Coca-Cola) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweeteners | Stevia, agave inulin, organic cane sugar, fruit juice | High-fructose corn syrup |
| Calories (per 12oz) | ~25 calories | ~140 calories |
| Sugar (per 12oz) | 5 grams or less | ~39 grams |
| Non-Caloric Sweetener | Stevia, a natural extract | Generally none, though diet versions use artificial sweeteners |
| Fiber | Contains prebiotic fiber (agave inulin) | None |
| Gut Health Marketing | Promotes prebiotic benefits | Not marketed for gut health |
The Sweetener Blend and the Lawsuit
In July 2025, Poppi settled a class-action lawsuit for $8.9 million over claims of false advertising related to its "gut healthy" marketing. The lawsuit alleged that the small amount of agave inulin present in the soda was not enough to provide substantial digestive benefits. While this lawsuit was not directly about the sweeteners themselves, it highlights the scrutiny placed on health-conscious brands and the ingredients they use, especially when positioned as superior alternatives.
The Consumer Perception of "Fake" Sugar
For many, the distinction between natural and artificial is a key factor in their purchasing decisions. While Poppi does not contain synthetic sweeteners, the term "fake sugar" can stem from the fact that it uses non-sugar, high-intensity sweeteners to achieve its taste. Stevia is a natural compound, but it is processed and extracted to be used as an ingredient, which blurs the line for some. The combination with organic cane sugar aims to provide a more traditional soda taste, while keeping the overall sugar and calorie counts low.
Conclusion
So, what is the fake sugar in Poppi? The short answer is that Poppi does not use artificial or "fake" sweeteners in the traditional sense. Instead, it relies on a natural blend of stevia and agave inulin, supplemented by organic cane sugar and fruit juice, to achieve its sweetness. This combination allows the brand to offer a low-sugar, low-calorie alternative to conventional soda, while also including prebiotic fiber. However, consumer perception and recent legal challenges show that the line between 'healthy alternative' and traditional soda isn't always clear-cut. For individuals sensitive to stevia's aftertaste or digestive side effects from inulin, the drink may not live up to its natural reputation. Ultimately, it's a naturally-derived sweetening system, not a synthetic one, but individual experiences and health goals should guide your decision. For more information on the sweeteners, a great resource can be found at the Environmental Working Group's Food Scores.
