Dr. Pepper

Flavor:

Cherry Zero Sugar

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Caramel Color, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Aspartame, Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Sodium benzoate (Preservative), Citric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Caffeine, Malic Acid, Sodium Phosphate, Red #40

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Dr. Pepper Cherry Zero Sugar garners a green leaf rating of 1/5 on our scale, placing it at the bottom tier of our recommended cleaner food options. This product is not organic and utilizes GMO ingredients, which already positions it unfavorably for health-conscious consumers. The presence of added sugars, particularly citric acid, further detracts from its nutritional value. More concerning is the inclusion of artificial sweeteners such as acesulfame potassium and aspartame, which are widely regarded as less desirable sugar substitutes.

The beverage also contains a variety of potentially harmful additives. Natural and artificial flavors, caramel color, Red 40, and malic acid are among the ingredients that raise red flags. These additives are often scrutinized for their possible health impacts. Additionally, known harmful additives such as artificial flavor, caramel color, aspartame, and sodium benzoate are present in the formulation. The artificial flavor is notably problematic, as it is commonly associated with high fructose corn syrup, an ingredient linked to several negative health outcomes.

Given the combination of non-organic ingredients, GMOs, added sugars, and harmful additives, Dr. Pepper Cherry Zero Sugar is not aligned with our mission to promote cleaner food options. The product’s composition reflects a departure from the standards we advocate for healthier food choices. As such, we advise consumers to avoid this beverage and consider alternative drinks that better meet the criteria for a wholesome diet.

Our assessment of Dr. Pepper Cherry Zero Sugar is grounded in a rigorous evaluation of its ingredients and their implications for health. The low green leaf rating reflects the product’s composition, which is at odds with our commitment to cleaner, more healthful eating. Consumers seeking better options would be well-served to explore other products that prioritize organic ingredients, avoid GMOs, and exclude harmful additives from their recipes.