Search our database for specific regular soda products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Regular Soda products →Soda vs Diet Soda Comparison
Both are Level 4 ultra-processed. Regular soda uses HFCS as sweetener; diet soda uses synthetic sweeteners (aspartame, acesulfame-K). Neither is less processed — they swap one industrial ingredient for another.
BeveragesQuick Answer
Equal processing levels. Diet soda eliminates sugar calories but replaces them with synthetic sweeteners. Sparkling water is the only truly less-processed alternative.
Regular Soda vs Diet Soda
Regular Soda
Diet Soda
Search our database for specific diet soda products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Diet Soda products →Our Verdict
Equal processing levels. Diet soda eliminates sugar calories but replaces them with synthetic sweeteners. Sparkling water is the only truly less-processed alternative.
Important Note
Processing levels can vary significantly between brands and specific products within each category. Always check the ingredient list of the specific product you are considering. Use our product search to look up exact processing scores.
Related Food Guides
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