PepsiCo to launch healthier snacks in EU by 2025
PepsiCo has announced plans to reduce sugar content in sodas and iced teas by 25% and launch more nutritious snacks by 2025 to attract more health-conscious consumers in its second-biggest market.
The beverage giant’s decision for a 25% reduction in added sugar levels by 2025 and a 50% cut by 2030 in beverages like Pepsi-Cola, Lipton Ice Tea and 7UP comes amid increasing scrutiny over the nutrition of global consumer goods companies’ products which follows a document by Nestlé revealing that more than 60% of its mainstream food and drinks portfolio does not meet a “recognised definition of health”.
Speaking about this, Ramon Laguarta, PepsiCo’s Chairman and CEO said, “We are working to transform the way we create shared value by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for the planet and people.
He added that “This will make us a Better company, with a purpose more deeply integrated into our business strategy. It will also make us Faster and Stronger, enabling accelerated growth and continued investment in our people, business and communities. And we hope it will make us an example, for our partners and our peers.”
On his part, PepsiCo Europe’s Chief Executive Officer Silviu Popovici said “In Europe today, almost one in three beverages we sell is sugar-free and we believe this trend will continue to grow over time,”.
As part of its push, the company is focused on reformulating products using low-calorie sweeteners, launch healthy snacks like its popcorn line PopWorks and take low-fat brands including the Lay’s Oven Baked range to new markets.
Soda makers have been under pressure to reduce added sugar in their drinks, especially in Europe where several countries have levied taxes on sweetened sodas, fruit juices and flavoured water to tackle health and obesity issues.
Europe accounted for nearly a fifth of PepsiCo’s overall sales last year, making it the second-biggest revenue generating region after North America.
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