Poppi is facing a lawsuit from a consumer who disputes its gut health claims

FILE – A can of prebiotic drink Poppi is shown on April 10, 2024 in New York. Soda brand Poppi has been sued by a consumer who claims the brand doesn’t improve gut health as much as it claims. (AP Photo/John Minchillo, File)

(AP) — Popular soda brand Poppi is facing a class-action lawsuit from a consumer who claims its products don’t improve gut health as much as its marketing suggests.

In a lawsuit filed last week in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, Kristin Cobbs said she repeatedly purchased Poppi drinks because of their labels, which stated they were prebiotic sodas and included the slogan “Be Gut Happy “. Be healthy for your gut.”

However, Cobbs later discovered that Poppi drinks only contained about 2 grams of the prebiotic fiber inulin from agave, which she felt was insufficient to provide any real benefit. Cobbs cited research showing that consuming 7.5 grams of agave inulin daily for three weeks was insufficient to provide significant prebiotic benefits.

If consumers drink more Poppi, the increased sugar intake will outweigh any prebiotic benefits, the lawsuit said.

Cobbs is seeking monetary relief for himself and similar clients.

Austin, Texas-based Poppi said in a statement Monday that it stands behind its products.

“Our mission is to revolutionize soda for the next generation of soda drinkers, and we are diligently innovating to deliver a taste experience that millions of people enjoy,” the company said. “We believe the lawsuit is without merit and will vigorously defend ourselves against these allegations.”

The Associated Press sent an email seeking comment to Poppi, based in Austin, Texas.

Poppi is one of dozens of brands in the exploding category of functional drinks that claim to improve health and well-being. According to data compiled by consulting firm AlixPartners, sales of prebiotic and probiotic drinks in the US more than tripled last year.