Pepsi

How ethical is Pepsi?

Pepsi is a soft drinks brand which has a below-benchmark score on The Good Shopping Guide’s Ethical Soft Drinks Ratings Table. Although Pepsi has not yet met our ethical benchmark, we hope to see the brand make progress in the future.

We would have extra confidence in Pepsi if it applied for Ethical Accreditation, whereby The Good Shopping Guide would make further detailed assessment and recommendations for ethical improvement. Find out more about the ethical issues facing the Soft Drinks sector.

What does Pepsi do?

Pepsi is an American brand of carbonated soft drink which was invented in 1893 by drugstore owner Caleb Bradham, and was originally called ‘Brad’s Drink’. It was renamed Pepsi-Cola because it was claimed to relieve dyspepsia (indigestion).

In which areas does Pepsi perform poorly?

Pepsi was marked down under our criteria for GM as its parent company, PepsiCo Inc., states that it believes GMOs are safe to use. Pepsi also receives a bottom score for Political Donations, as PepsiCo donated above our threshold in recent election cycles. Find out more about how we rate by exploring our ethical criteria.

Past Criticisms of Pepsi’s record

Pepsi’s parent company, PepsiCo, came under fire recently for allegedly buying palm oil from unethical and harmful sources.

In which areas does Pepsi score well for its ethics?

Pepsi gets a top rating for its Environmental Report, as PepsiCo has detailed targets and evidence of progress available on its website.

We found no criticisms relating to; Nuclear, Fossil Fuels, Animal Welfare or Armaments, therefore Pepsi scores well across these criteria. Find out more about how we rate.

How can Pepsi improve its ethical rating?

The below-benchmark score that Pepsi is awarded with on The Good Shopping Guide’s Ethical Soft Drinks Ratings Table is the result of an evaluation of multiple ethical criteria.

To reach our minimum ethical benchmark and qualify for Ethical Accreditation, Pepsi has some issues to resolve, including its use of GMOs. If it applies for Ethical Accreditation, The Good Shopping Guide will be able to give Pepsi some guidance to improve on these areas.

Were you aware that your brand could benefit from Ethical Accreditation? Brands accredited by The Good Shopping Guide can display our Ethical Mark, showcasing to consumers that it is an ethical and sustainable brand. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact us or complete a Free Initial Assessment form.