Dive Brief:
- Dr. Pepper Snapple Group will test 60-calorie versions of Dr Pepper, 7Up, and Canada Dry sodas made with natural sweeteners.
- Instead of artificial sweeteners or high-fructose corn syrup, the sodas would contain sugar and stevia.
- The move was announced as the company reported lower sales volume for the most recent quarter despite beating expectations with its profit.
Dive Insight:
Soda sales in the U.S. have been in decline for a few years now, and this is Dr. Pepper's latest attempt to right the ship. Will consumers be more likely to load up on soft drinks if they lower their calorie counts and shun artificial sweeteners in favor of all-natural alternatives? That remains to be seen, as do the details on when exactly Dr. Pepper plans to test these new beverages.. The company is also planning to expand its Ten line-up with 7Up and Sunkist in addition to the existing Dr. Pepper Ten.