DALLAS - PepsiCo has announced a deal to acquire Poppi, a Dallas-founded prebiotic soda brand known for its viral social media presence and gut-health benefits. The acquisition strengthens PepsiCo’s position in the growing health and wellness beverage market.

PepsiCo said Monday it would buy prebiotic soda brand Poppi for $1.95 billion, expanding in the “healthier soda” category at a time when the company is battling falling demand for its traditional beverages and snacks. Shares of PepsiCo were up 1.5% in morning trading.

PepsiCo said on Monday it would buy prebiotic soda brand Poppi for $1.95 billion, expanding into the "healthier soda" category at a time when the company