By Delia Rangel

Poppi took the Internet by storm and quickly became a must-try beverage, but it was not an overnight sensation. The viral prebiotic soda has been on the shelves since 2018, but under its original name, “Mother”. 

What is Poppi? 

Poppi is a gut-healthy soda that combines fruit juice, apple cider vinegar, and inulin, a prebiotic fiber. Each can of Poppi contains five grams of sugar and is 25 calories or less. 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the benefits of prebiotics include a healthy gut, enhanced anti-inflammatory response, improved immune system functionality, and a decrease in bacteria that causes diseases. 

Poppi’s goal is to reimagine a healthier soda and remind buyers that “cravings aren’t a crime,” which it embraces with its slogan, #SodasBack. It appeals to its Gen-Z audience with bright, colorful branding and fun flavors like Raspberry Rose and Cherry Limeade. Poppi also offers flavors comparable to the sodas we know and love, with Doc Pop being its version of Dr. Pepper and Classic Cola being its version of Coca-Cola. 

First Appearance on Shark Tank

Despite its current popularity, Poppi did not see overnight success. Owners Allison and Stephen Ellsworth appeared on “Shark Tank” in 2018, promoting their “Apple Cider Vinegar Beverage,” Mother. Investor Rohan Oza made an offer, and soon after, Mother was sold out online. Regardless of its online success, the brand name was unable to be trademarked, making it difficult to stock Mother in-store. 

The Birth of Poppi

In 2020, the owners decided to undergo a major rebrand, changing everything from the brand name to the packaging. Mother soon became Poppi and traded in its delicate glass bottles for bold-colored aluminum cans. Before rebranding to Poppi, Mother was only available in around 200 storefronts. Since its rebranding, Poppi can be found in over 30,000 retail stores, including Target, Walmart, and Whole Foods. 

TikTok Stardom

Poppi hasTikTok to thank for its continued success. Poppi became a TikTok sensation after Allison Ellsworth posted a video promoting the drink. Now, TikTok is its primary source of promotion, reaching millions of viewers with each video and advertisement. Their PR package unboxings and extravagant creator events also draw consumers in. 

Now, Poppi even sells its own apparel, worn by influencers across TikTok and Instagram to promote the brand. Poppi has been seen in the hands of big-name celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Billie Eilish, Hailey Bieber, and Kylie Jenner. 

Poppi disrupted the soda industry and has grown into a brand beloved by many. With its steady success, Poppi is sure to remain a fan (and gut!) favorite.