Prebiotic sodas may contain more sugar and calories than manufacturers claim, according to a new study reported by Healthline.
The drinks contain dietary fiber that can support gut health, but some of the claimed benefits may be exaggerated, the study found.
Results presented at the NUTRITION 2026 conference show that prebiotic sodas can have more calories and sugar than diet sodas or flavored sparkling water.
How the study was done
Researchers used the Mintel Global New Products Database to analyze 108 prebiotic sodas released in the United States between 2021 and 2025.
They compared the drinks' composition with regular sugary sodas, diet soda water, fruit drinks and flavored sparkling water that also entered the market during that period.
On average, one roughly 355 ml can contained 35 calories, 5 grams of sugar and 5 grams of fiber.
Lead study author Carlos R. Soto Diaz said the results show that prebiotic sodas are not necessarily calorie free or completely sugar free. He said they generally contain more calories and sugar than diet soda water or flavored sparkling water.
Marketing under scrutiny
Prebiotic sodas are marketed as an alternative to sugary drinks, which have been linked to risks of obesity and type 2 diabetes. They are promoted as containing less sugar while keeping a familiar soda or juice taste and adding fiber.
The drinks' popularity is growing quickly, but Soto Diaz noted that lawsuits against major brands are raising questions about whether marketing claims match the drinks' actual composition.
