Pepsi

Pepsi Max

Barcode 4060800178008

Scanned 6 times by Nomi users

Yes — Pepsi Max is ultra-processed.

Not a great choice for everyday.

Pepsi Max is ultra-processed because it contains industrial additives and formulations, including caramel colour (E150d), the artificial sweeteners aspartame and acesulfame K, flavourings, caffeine-containing flavouring, and the preservative potassium sorbate. These ingredients are characteristic of an industrially formulated soft drink.

Ingredients

4 ultra-processed markers

OK

carbonated water

A basic beverage ingredient consisting of dissolved CO2 in water, providing fizz without flavor additives.
UPF

caramel color (e150d)

A food-grade caramel color produced by heat-treatment of sugar with acids or alkalis; used as a color additive.
UPF

artificial sweeteners (aspartame, acesulfame k)

A blend of synthetic sweeteners used as sugar substitutes in beverages and foods; contains aspartame and acesulfame K.
OK

acids phosphoric acid
OK

citric acid

A weak organic acid found in citrus fruits, commonly used as an acidulant and preservative in foods and beverages.
UPF

flavourings (including caffeine)

Flavorings and flavor enhancers; may include caffeine as a component. Typically industrially processed flavor additives.
UPF

potassium sorbate

Potassium sorbate is a widely used food preservative that inhibits the growth of molds, yeast, and some bacteria to extend shelf life.
OK

phenylalanine

An essential amino acid used as a nutritional supplement or as an additive source of phenylalanine in some foods.

Swap it for something less processed

See all Drinks →

Other drinks Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.

Common questions about Pepsi Max

Is Pepsi Max ultra-processed?

Yes — Pepsi Max by Pepsi is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). Pepsi Max is ultra-processed because it contains industrial additives and formulations, including caramel colour (E150d), the artificial sweeteners aspartame and acesulfame K, flavourings, caffeine-containing flavouring, and the preservative potassium sorbate. These ingredients are characteristic of an industrially formulated soft drink.

Which ingredients in Pepsi Max are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 4 ingredients in Pepsi Max as ultra-processed markers: caramel color (e150d), artificial sweeteners (aspartame, acesulfame k), flavourings (including caffeine), potassium sorbate. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.