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Tuesday, October 18, 2016

PepsiCo will reduce sugar content in its juices and carbonated drinks in India by 2025 as part of a global pledge announced by Chief Executive Indra Nooyi on Monday amid a backlash against such products over an obesity epidemic and illnesses such as diabetes. Several countries are also considering a sugar tax to reduce consumption of sugary drinks.

As part of the initiative, the company will introduce smaller sizes and bring zero-calorie drinks to India with close to two-thirds of the company’s beverages having 100 calories or less per 12-ounce serving.

“We have started the sugar reduction journey across colas, flavours and juices. We will be replacing sugar with natural and artificial sweeteners across our portfolio, and will also reduce portion sizes of beverages in bottles and cans,” PepsiCo India Chairman D Shivakumar told ET. Pepsi began selling colas in 150-ml cans, the smallest in the domestic market, in February.

“These are now being extended to other brands such as 7Up, Mountain Dew, Diet Pepsi and Mirinda. This is about portion control,” Shivakumar said. “For the next 10 years we will focus on products, planet, and people.”