Olipop vs. Poppi- which is better? Olipop and Poppi are two “prebiotic soda” brands that have gained popularity over recent years, especially on social media.

I’ve been getting a LOT of questions lately about these drinks. Is Olipop healthy? Is Poppi better? Let’s dive into the science here and see which drink I recommend, and why. If you’re wondering whether or not these “healthy” sodas are actually healthy, you’re in the right place.

I’m Jamie, a Registered Dietitian of over a decade. I love helping you decipher which products are worth the hype, and which ones fall flat. Let’s dive into these “healthy” sodas.

What are Olipop and Poppi Sodas?

Both Olipop and Poppi are “prebiotic sodas”, aka carbonated drinks that are sold as healthier alternative to traditional soda.

They have added health-promoting ingredients and less sugar than regular soda. The ingredients in each are different (we’ll get into that) but each brand’s product comes in lots of fun and nostalgic flavors.

What Are Prebiotics?

Since they are “prebiotic sodas”, it’s important to know what prebiotics are and if you need them. Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber naturally found in foods like vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts. That fiber can be extracted and added to food and drinks, like with Olipop and Poppi.

When these plant fibers reach your gut, they help promote the growth of helpful, good bacteria (think probiotics) living within your digestive system.

The bottom line: prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber. And guess what? Most people aren’t getting enough fiber on a daily basis. Fiber has many, many benefits from improving digestive health and lowering disease risk to boosting mood and immune system, so you’re missing out on some impressive benefits if you’re not eating enough.

Both Olipop and Poppi contain added fiber, so they can help fill that gap a little. Let’s get into their similarities, differences, and whether they’re worth buying.

Their sodas typically include carbonated water, a small amount of apple juice concentrate, natural flavorings, himalayan pink salt, and stevia leaf extract. Let’s get into each ingredient.

Olipop Ingredients

• Chicory root fiber, cassava root fiber, and Jerusalem artichoke inulin are all sources of prebiotic fiber that may help support a healthy gut microbiome and digestion. 
• Marshmallow root is a plant with a natural ability to thicken liquid and can be soothing if you have a cough. 
• Kudzu root is another prebiotic fiber source that’s been studied for potential roles in things like blood sugar regulation, alcohol use, and liver health, but most of this research is early or uses higher doses.
• Calendula flower contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds and is commonly used in herbal teas and topical products. 
• Nopal cactus aka prickly pear cactus has been studied for potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and blood sugar regulating effects.
• Stevia, apple juice concentrate, and cassava root syrup all help sweeten the soda while keeping added sugar lower.
• Himalayan pink salt and flavorings are added to round out the flavor in each can.

Please note: Whenever functional herbs and ingredients are in the mix, it’s important to chat with your doctor. Some of these ingredients aren’t recommended to combine with certain medications. 

Poppi Ingredients

• Agave inulin is a type of prebiotic fiber. In the Poppi sodas, the amount of fiber is much lower at 2 grams per 12-oz can.
• Natural flavors in Poppi come from a proprietary blend of citrus oils like lemon, lime, and orange.
• Stevia is a calorie-free, plant-based sweetener. 
• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is the ingredient that sets Poppi apart from Olipop. ACV has been touted for a variety of potential health benefits, from helping with heartburn to modest effects on blood sugar and weight. Most of these claims are based on small or short-term studies and need more research overall.

Poppi does include ACV in every can, but the exact amount isn’t clearly listed on their current website. Most ACV studies use around 1–2 tablespoons per day.

Flavor Comparison

I’ll be honest, I personally enjoy them both depending on the flavors. I’ve tried just about every single flavor, so here’s what you need to know!

What Does Olipop Taste Like?

Olipop tastes a bit more like traditional soda compared with Poppi. Many of the flavors remind me of diet soda with a less sweet flavor. I do notice a slight herbal aftertaste with some of the flavors.

My two favorite Olipop flavors are their Crisp Apple and Pineapple Paradise. My husband’s favorite is the Cream Soda.

Olipop also comes in a variety of classic and unique flavors like root beer vintage cola, watermelon lime, orange squeeze, cherry cola, lemon lime and strawberry vanilla. 

What Does Poppi Taste Like?

Similar to Olipop, they’re not a complete soda dupe, but they’re really tasty in their own way. Compared with Olipop, their flavors do tend to have more tartness from the ACV. The ACV does come through a little bit more in some flavors, so you really have to taste test to see what you like.

My favorite Poppi flavor is easily Raspberry Rose. It has just the right amount of fruity sweetness and is super refreshing.

Poppi also has a flavor for just about everyone including grape, strawberry lemon, orange, cherry limeade, ginger lime, watermelon, classic cola, doc pop, and root beer.

More FAQs

That’s a Wrap

The bottom line: both of these prebiotic sodas are a great option if you’re looking for a soda alternative (or a fun drink).

When it comes to overall health, remember that a balanced and varied diet is truly key. No single food (or soda) is going to make or break your health.

My best advice? Enjoy them in moderation if you like them!

Looking for more balanced nutrition product reviews? Check out these next:

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