Pepsi

Flavor:

Diet Pepsi Wild Cherry

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Caramel Color, Phosphoric Acid, Natural Flavor, Aspartame, Potassium Benzoate (Preserves Freshness), Potassium Citrate, Citric Acid, Caffeine, Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Calcium Disodium EDTA (To Protect Flavor)

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Green Leaf Rating: 1/5

The ‘Pepsi Diet Pepsi Wild Cherry’ receives our lowest green leaf rating due to its composition of non-organic, potentially genetically modified ingredients, and the inclusion of several additives that raise health concerns. This beverage is not organic and lacks non-GMO certification, which immediately reduces its standing in our evaluation process. Furthermore, the presence of citric acid is considered an added sugar, contributing to its low score.

The drink contains artificial sweeteners like acesulfame potassium and aspartame, which we identify as more harmful types of added sugars. These ingredients have been scrutinized in health discussions, with some studies linking them to negative health outcomes. Additionally, the product includes additives such as natural flavor, flavor, and calcium disodium EDTA. While these may serve various functions in food production, their potential health impacts warrant caution.

Of particular concern is the caramel color used to give the beverage its distinctive appearance. This additive has received the highest deduction in our scoring system due to its classification among ingredients known to be harmful. Caramel color has been associated with adverse health effects in some studies, and aspartame, also present in this product, is a controversial sweetener that has been the subject of debate regarding its safety.

This product’s composition reflects a collection of attributes that fail to meet the standards for cleaner, healthier food options. The combination of non-organic ingredients, GMOs, added sugars, and questionable additives results in a product that stands at the opposite end of our health-conscious spectrum. We recommend consumers seek alternative beverages that prioritize natural, organic, and minimally processed ingredients to ensure a healthier choice.