2025 – Dataessential reports that 52 % of shoppers say they would try “fibermaxxing” after learning about it and 42 % view “high‑fiber” labels as healthier, indicating a shift from earlier hydration and protein trends [1].

Oct 2025 – PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta declares on the company’s earnings call that fiber is “the next protein,” signaling a major corporate pivot toward fiber‑focused product development [1].

Nov 2025 (Black Friday) – Pepsi’s test run of Prebiotic Cola sells out during a Black Friday promotion, prompting the brand to schedule a full‑scale U.S. launch [2].

2025 – The TikTok hashtag #fibermaxxing spreads among Gen Z, dominating the platform and driving consumer interest in gut health, skin clarity, and cognitive function [1].

2025 – NIQ analyst Sherry Frey describes a “perfect storm” of converging wellness trends that positions fiber as the next big nutrient in the food market [1].

2025 – Government nutrition data reveal that over 90 % of women and 97 % of men fall short of recommended daily fiber intake, underscoring a large unmet demand [1].

Early 2026 – Whole Foods’ 2026 forecast notes a surge in “fiber‑forward” packaging claims, while Thrive Market reports a 30 % rise in fiber‑related search terms for snacks, bars, and supplements [1].

Early 2026 – Major brands roll out fiber‑enhanced products: PepsiCo launches Pepsi Prebiotic Cola and plans fiber versions of SunChips, Smartfood popcorn, and Propel packets; Aldi adds fiber‑rich sodas and bars to its private label; Walmart expands its Bettergoods fiber range [1].

Jan 25, 2026 – Industry analysts label fiber the next major food trend, with “fibermaxxing” dominating TikTok and 52 % of consumers expressing willingness to try fiber‑focused products [1].

Jan 25, 2026 – Registered dietitian Paul Kriegler cautions that processed fiber is not a substitute for whole foods and urges adults to meet the recommended 25 g (women) or 35 g (men) daily intake [1].

Feb 18, 2026 – Pepsi officially releases Pepsi Prebiotic Cola nationwide in original and cherry‑vanilla flavors, each can delivering 3 g prebiotic fiber, 30 calories, 5 g sugar, and no artificial sweeteners [2].

Feb 18, 2026 – Food microbiology professor Glenn Gibson notes that prebiotics can nourish beneficial gut bacteria, but scientific evidence linking them to major health outcomes remains limited [2].

Feb 18, 2026 – UNC professor Andrea Azcarate stresses that without disclosure of the specific prebiotic type, scientists cannot assess the product’s true gut‑health benefits [2].

Feb 18, 2026 – Duke researcher Lawrence David calls the 3 g of fiber “not insignificant” for low‑fiber consumers yet warns that carbonation and sugar may offset any potential gains [2].