Pepsi launches high-fiber, fat-burning soda in Japan

GlobalPost

Pepsi announced the release of its high-in-fiber soda in Japan Monday in a bid to attract health conscious customers.

The drink, creatively named "Pepsi Special," which goes on sale Tuesday, contains the fiber-rich starch dextrin.

Pepsi's announcement comes just months after beverage rival Kirin, released its own sugar-free, dextrin soda called "Mets" said ABC News.

The drink has been a success, likely spurring Pepsi Co. to try to win back market share.

Dextrin can be derived from arrowroot, rice corn, potato, tapioca, or wheat, said Mother Nature Network.

More from GlobalPost: Pepsi's return to Myanmar

The Japanese are no strangers to odd soft drink combinations and flavors.

ABC News reported that Pepsi in Japan includes flavors such as strawberry and milk, salty watermelon and yogurt.

Japan's soft drink market is valued at around $48 billion.

The Atlantic and Mother Nature Network condemned the move arguing that taking in fiber from empty calories and sugary soda is not a way to get healthy.

It also fools customers into thinking they are doing something good for their bodies by having soft drinks.

Sign up for our daily newsletter

Sign up for The Top of the World, delivered to your inbox every weekday morning.