By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom
PepsiCo has just launched a new soda in Japan, claiming to burn fat and support weight loss. It’s called “Pepsi Special” and the “special weight loss ingredient” is the addition of dextrin to the standard Pepsi formula. Dextrin is a non-digestible fiber, used in baked goods and other food products. Scientific studies have documented that fiber can help bind small amounts of dietary fat, and this metabolic observation is the sole “science” upon which this claim is based.
Americans have a love-hate relationship with soda, and soda consumers are always happy to hear of some redeeming health benefit that helps justify consumption. This is not the first time soda has made a weight loss claim. In the U.S., you might be familiar with a soda named “Celcius” containing 200 mg of caffeine (the amount in a large mug of coffee) claiming to burn fat and raise metabolism. And Coca Cola’s Fuze Slenderize energy drink, containing a special blend of minerals, promises to help you slim down.
Don’t expect Pepsi Special on U.S. shelves anytime soon. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates health claims of foods and beverages and does not permit nutrient fortification (like fiber) of soda or candy. The Japanese food regulatory process is more lenient.
As with all claims related to weight loss, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
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