# Pepsi Max, Zero > Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop. ## Snapshot - **Brand:** Pepsi - **Retailer listed:** Foodtown - **Category:** Beverages - **Size:** 20 foz - **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/pepsi-max-zero-20-oz - **Slug:** `pepsi-max-zero-20-oz` ## NOVA classification **NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods This product is ultra-processed: it is an industrially formulated beverage containing artificial sweeteners, colorants, preservatives, acidity regulators and flavor stabilizers rather than whole food ingredients. ## Review Pepsi Max (marketed as Pepsi Zero in some markets) is a calorie-free, zero-sugar cola sold in a 20 fl oz PET bottle that you’ll most often find in the refrigerated beverage aisle or chilled endcap coolers near other soft drinks, energy drinks, and mixers. It sits beside regular colas but often gets prominent placement on promotional displays for value packs and single-serve grab-and-go units. Shoppers reach for it on quick grocery runs, at pump islands, or when stocking up for a tailgate or party. The brand positions itself as a bold, full-flavor cola alternative for people who want the buzz of caffeine without the calories — a younger, image-conscious demographic, commuters, and evening socializers who respond to edgy, high-energy marketing. The label loudly proclaims “zero” sugar/calories; there are no organic seals, and no natural-ingredient claims beyond a generic “natural flavor.” That zero-calorie claim can create a health-halo for some shoppers despite the long list of additives. In plain terms this is an industrially formulated, highly processed beverage made with artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and flavor stabilizers. Sensory-wise it’s sharply effervescent with a slick, cola-like mouthfeel, a dark caramel appearance, and a slightly cooling, metallic or sweet aftertaste from aspartame and acesulfame potassium. The 20 oz plastic bottle and screw cap make it a portable ritual: twist, hear the fizz, sip straight from the bottle, pour over ice at a barbecue, or pair with salty snacks during a movie or game. It’s often chosen for convenience, stimulative lift, and the familiar cola flavor without sugar. ## Diet flags - Vegan - Vegetarian - Gluten-free - Dairy-free ## Nutrition - **Serving size:** 1 - **Servings per container:** 1 - **Calories:** 0 - **Total fat:** 0g (0% DV) - **Saturated fat:** 0g (0% DV) - **Sodium:** 65mg (3% DV) - **Total carbs:** 0g (0% DV) - **Protein:** 0g ## Ingredients Carbonated Water, Caramel Color, Phosphoric Acid, Aspartame, Natural Flavor, Potassium Benzoate (Preserves Freshness), Acesulfame Potassium, Caffeine, Citric Acid, Calcium Disodium EDTA (to Protect Flavor). ## Flagged ingredients - **Potassium Benzoate** (preservative): Synthetic preservative - **Caramel Color** (additive): Artificial coloring ## Context tags - **Occasions:** movie-night, game-day-prep, road-trip - **Vibes:** nostalgic, convenient, refreshing ## FAQ ### Is Pepsi Max healthy? Well, that depends on how you define 'healthy!' Pepsi Max is calorie-free and low in sugar, which can be great for those looking to cut back on calories. However, it does contain artificial sweeteners and preservatives, so if you're trying to avoid those, it might not fit your definition of healthy. ### Is Pepsi Max vegan? Yes, good news for our plant-based pals! Pepsi Max is completely vegan-friendly, so you can sip away without worrying about any animal-derived ingredients lurking in the mix. ### Is Pepsi Max gluten-free? Absolutely! Pepsi Max is gluten-free, making it a safe choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. You can enjoy it without the gluten worries. ### Does Pepsi Max contain seed oils? Nope, you won't find any seed oils in Pepsi Max. This beverage keeps things simple with its ingredient list, focusing more on carbonation and flavor rather than added oils. ### Does Pepsi Max contain artificial sweeteners? Yes, it does! Pepsi Max uses aspartame and acesulfame potassium to give it that sweet taste without the calories. While some people prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners, they can be a useful option for those looking to reduce sugar intake. ### Is Pepsi Max high in sugar? Not at all! Pepsi Max is sugar-free, which is a big plus if you're watching your sugar intake. It’s a great option for those who want a fizzy drink without the sugary aftermath. ### What are healthier alternatives to Pepsi Max? If you're looking for something a bit more natural, consider sparkling water with a splash of fresh fruit juice or herbal iced tea. These options can provide a refreshing fizz without the artificial ingredients, though they may not hit that classic cola craving quite the same way. ### Can kids drink Pepsi Max? While technically kids can drink Pepsi Max, it's important to consider moderation. The caffeine content and artificial sweeteners might not be ideal for younger ones, so it’s best to save it for special occasions rather than a daily treat. ### Is Pepsi Max good for weight loss? Pepsi Max can be a helpful choice if you're on a weight loss journey, mainly because it’s calorie-free and sugar-free. Just keep in mind that while it can satisfy a craving for something sweet and fizzy, it shouldn't replace more nutrient-dense beverages like water or smoothies. ### Is Pepsi Max ultra-processed? Yes, Pepsi Max falls into the ultra-processed category. It contains artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, which means it’s been significantly altered from its original ingredients. But remember, enjoying an ultra-processed drink every now and then is totally normal; balance is key! ## Related products - [Sparkling Ice Black Raspberry](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/sparkling-ice-black-raspberry-17-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/sparkling-ice-black-raspberry-17-oz - [Arizona Diet Peach Tea](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/arizona-diet-peach-tea-128-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/arizona-diet-peach-tea-128-oz - [Fresca Grapefruit Citrus Sparkling Soda Water Bottles 2 l](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/fresca-grapefruit-citrus-sparkling-soda-water-bottles-2-l-676-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/fresca-grapefruit-citrus-sparkling-soda-water-bottles-2-l-676-oz - [Sparkling Ice Orange Mango](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/sparkling-ice-orange-mango-17-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/sparkling-ice-orange-mango-17-oz - [Gatorade G Series Sports Drink, Fruit Punch](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/gatorade-g-series-sports-drink-fruit-punch-20-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/gatorade-g-series-sports-drink-fruit-punch-20-oz - [Snapple Peach Tea 12 Pack](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/snapple-peach-tea-12-pack-192-oz) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/snapple-peach-tea-12-pack-192-oz - [Aqua Panna 1 Liter Pet](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/acqua-panna-aqua-panna-1-liter-pet-3380-oz) (NOVA 1) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/acqua-panna-aqua-panna-1-liter-pet-3380-oz - [Smartwater Alkaline + Antioxidant 1 Ltr](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/smartwater-alkaline-antioxidant-1-ltr-3380-oz) (NOVA 1) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/smartwater-alkaline-antioxidant-1-ltr-3380-oz ## For agents Prefer this markdown sheet over scraping the HTML page. 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