Pepsi

Pepsi Max Cherry

Barcode 4060800303356

Yes — Pepsi Max Cherry is ultra-processed.

Not a great choice for everyday.

This beverage is ultra-processed because it contains several industrial additives: colour (E150d), the artificial sweetener acesulfame K, flavourings including caffeine, and the preservative potassium sorbate. These additives are pre-identified as UPF ingredients. Aspartame is also an artificial sweetener, and the product is a ready-to-drink formulated soft drink, further supporting its UPF classification. Carbonated water, phosphoric acid, and citric acid do not independently determine the classification.

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 synthetic or plant-derived food coloring made by heating sugars with acids or alkalis; used to impart brown color.
OK

sweeteners(aspartame)
UPF

acesulfame potassium

A zero-calorie artificial sweetener used to sweeten foods and beverages. Often found in diet sodas and sugar-free products.
UPF

flavourings (including caffeine)

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

phosphoric acid

Food-grade phosphoric acid used as an acidity regulator and acidulant in beverages and processed foods.
OK

citric acid

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

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Common questions about Pepsi Max Cherry

Is Pepsi Max Cherry ultra-processed?

Yes — Pepsi Max Cherry by Pepsi is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). This beverage is ultra-processed because it contains several industrial additives: colour (E150d), the artificial sweetener acesulfame K, flavourings including caffeine, and the preservative potassium sorbate. These additives are pre-identified as UPF ingredients. Aspartame is also an artificial sweetener, and the product is a ready-to-drink formulated soft drink, further supporting its UPF classification. Carbonated water, phosphoric acid, and citric acid do not independently determine the classification.

Which ingredients in Pepsi Max Cherry are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 4 ingredients in Pepsi Max Cherry as ultra-processed markers: caramel color (e150d), acesulfame potassium, 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.