Introduction: Understanding Pepsi and Food Allergens

With the rise in food allergies and sensitivities globally, many consumers are asking: Does Pepsi contain allergens? Whether you’re in the USA, Italy, or elsewhere, knowing what’s in your favorite soft drink is crucial for your health and peace of mind. This comprehensive guide explores Pepsi’s ingredients, allergen risks, regulatory standards, and how modern tools like Food Scan Genius can help you make informed choices.

What Are Food Allergens?

Food allergens are specific proteins or compounds in food that can trigger immune reactions in sensitive individuals. The most common allergens—often called the “Big 9” in the USA—include:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Fish
• Crustacean shellfish
• Tree nuts
• Peanuts
• Wheat
• Soybeans
• Sesame

In the European Union, including Italy, the list is similar but also includes celery, mustard, lupin, mollusks, and sulfites as regulated allergens. [FDA, 2024]

Does Pepsi Contain Allergens? Ingredient Analysis (2025)

Let’s examine the standard ingredients in Pepsi (regular, not flavored variants) as sold in the USA and Italy:

Key Takeaway: Standard Pepsi does not contain any of the Big 9 allergens (USA) or the 14 EU allergens (Italy) as intentional ingredients.

Potential Allergen Risks in Pepsi

1. Caramel Color

Caramel color is produced by heating carbohydrates (like corn or sugar) and may use acids or alkalis. According to a 2024 PubMed review, caramel color is not considered allergenic, but rare sensitivities to processing residues have been reported.

2. Natural Flavorings

“Natural flavors” can be derived from plant or animal sources. Both the EFSA and FDA require that if any regulated allergen is present, it must be declared on the label. PepsiCo states that their natural flavors do not contain major allergens.

3. Cross-Contamination

While unlikely, cross-contamination during manufacturing is always a remote possibility. PepsiCo’s allergen control policies in both the USA and Italy are aligned with global food safety standards.

Pepsi’s Official Allergen Statements (2024–2025)

• USA: According to PepsiCo Product Facts (2025), Pepsi does not contain milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, or sesame.
• Italy: Pepsi Italia confirms compliance with EU Regulation No 1169/2011, requiring full disclosure of allergens. No regulated allergens are present in classic Pepsi.

For flavored or limited-edition Pepsi products, always check the label or scan with Food Scan Genius.

Recent Scientific & Regulatory Findings (2024–2025)

• 2024 FDA Report: The FDA’s 2024 update on food allergen labeling confirms that soft drinks like Pepsi are rarely sources of major allergens, but vigilance is needed for new flavorings.
• 2025 PubMed Study: A 2025 review found no evidence of allergenic reactions to standard cola beverages in controlled trials.

News Highlights: Food Safety & Dietary Trends (2024–2025)

• NY Times (Nov 2024): “New Allergen Labeling Laws Aim to Protect U.S. Consumers”
• Il Sole 24 Ore (Jan 2025): “Etichette alimentari: l’UE rafforza la trasparenza sugli allergeni”
• FoodNavigator (Sept 2024): “Food Sensitivity Apps on the Rise in Europe and USA”

USA vs. Italy: Pepsi Ingredients & Allergen Regulations

Conclusion: Both the USA and Italy enforce strict allergen labeling. Classic Pepsi is considered safe for people with common food allergies in both regions, but always check for new flavors or local variants.

How Food Scan Genius Helps with Food Allergy Safety

Food Scan Genius is a cutting-edge app designed to help people with food allergies, intolerances, or dietary preferences make safer choices—at home or abroad.

• Scan Any Product: Instantly check if Pepsi or any beverage contains allergens by scanning the barcode.
• Personalized Alerts: Set your allergy profile (e.g., “no soy, no milk, no nuts”) and get instant warnings.
• International Support: Works in the USA, Italy, and across the EU—adapts to local regulations and ingredient lists.
• Updated Database: Includes the latest product formulations and regulatory changes (2025).
• Dietary Preferences: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and more—filter products according to your needs.

Stay safe and confident—Scan with Food Scan Genius before you sip!

FAQs: Does Pepsi Contain Allergens?

Summary: Should You Worry About Allergens in Pepsi?

• Classic Pepsi is free from major food allergens in both the USA and Italy.
• Always check the label or scan with Food Scan Genius for flavored or special edition products.
• Regulatory agencies in both regions enforce strict allergen disclosure.
• Stay updated with scientific research and food safety news for peace of mind.

Want to be 100% sure? Scan with Food Scan Genius before you enjoy your next Pepsi!