Pepsi has released its new reformulated recipe, which has approximately 57% less sugar than it did previously, but unfortunately, some customers have been left less than impressed by the change. Going forward, this less sugary version will replace canned and bottled Pepsi products in supermarkets and retail stores. The change will be implemented across the UK and Ireland, while Diet Pepsi and Pepsi Max products will remain unaffected.
Longtime Pepsi fans have now taken to social media to blast the fizzy drink, as they say replacing sugar with sweeteners has ruined the taste and some "cannot tolerate" the change. Some have even announced they will now be "coming home" to Coca-Cola instead.
Taking to Twitter, one disappointed user despaired: "Since when does regular Pepsi now have sweeteners? One of the last remaining soft drinks that I could still enjoy is now ruined as well. Looks like Coca-Cola Classic is the last remaining bastion of actual real sugar."
Another shuddered: "Honestly, regular Pepsi that is sold in the UK supermarkets, the new recipe is utterly disgusting. Honestly hope your sales plummet. Not even advertised on the packaging."
A third tweeted: "Well thanks Pepsi, firstly for not mentioning the new recipe on the cans or the bottles, and secondly for adding necessary sweeteners which I and thousands of others are sensitive to. I'm sorry Pepsi, it's over. Hey, Coca-Cola, I'm coming home baby!"
To illustrate this stark difference, a 330ml can of Pepsi will now contain 15g of sugar, down from 36g, while a 2L bottle now contains 91g of sugar, reduced from 213g.
Those who loved the original recipe will however be pleased to know that Pepsi fountains used at places such as pubs and restaurants, will continue to serve classic Pepsi.
A spokesperson for Pepsi advised the Mirror that this change will take some time to filter through. Shops will sell through their existing stock, meaning not all cans will contain the new recipe straight away.
According to a statement on the Pepsico website: "These efforts form part of pep+, our transformation plan to drive positive action for people and the planet.
"As part of this plan, we are making changes to improve the nutritional profile of our snacks and beverages, building on nearly two decades of work prioritising low or no-sugar drinks in the UK and Ireland. Today, over 90% of the colas we sell in the UK and Ireland are sugar-free versions."
What do you think about the taste of the new Pepsi recipe? Email us at julia.banim@reachplc.com
