Oli Pop

Flavor:

Cherry Vanilla

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, OLISMART (Cassava Root Fiber, Chicory Root Inulin, Jerusalem Artichoke Inulin, Nopal Cactus*, Marshmallow Root*, Calendula Flower*, Kudzu Root*), Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate, Cassava Root Syrup, Apple Juice Concentrate, Lime Juice, Stevia Leaf*, Himalayan Pink Salt, Natural White Cherry Flavor, Natural Vanilla Flavor

Rating: Average

Ingredient Score:

Olipop Cherry Vanilla earns a rating of 3 out of 5 green leaves on our scale of cleaner food options. This beverage presents itself as a middle-of-the-road choice for those seeking healthier alternatives in the soda category. It is not certified organic, which results in a deduction from its score, reflecting a preference for organic ingredients among health-conscious consumers. However, the product proudly incorporates non-GMO components, aligning with the increasing demand for genetically unmodified foodstuffs.

The ingredient list features a unique blend called OLISMART, consisting of plant-based fibers and roots like cassava, chicory, and Jerusalem artichoke, as well as botanicals such as nopal cactus, marshmallow root, calendula flower, and kudzu root. These components are recognized for their potential prebiotic benefits, contributing to digestive health. The use of natural tart cherry and apple juice concentrates provides sweetness, while lime juice adds a tangy note.

Despite these positives, the product loses points for including added sugars, specifically cassava root syrup and stevia. While stevia is a natural sweetener, it is treated as an added sugar in our assessment due to its role in sweetening the beverage. Furthermore, the presence of natural flavors, listed simply as “Flavor” in the ingredients, prompts a significant score reduction. The term “natural flavors” can encompass a wide range of substances, which may cause concern for those seeking complete transparency in their food products.

Olipop Cherry Vanilla emerges as a compromise for consumers navigating the complex food market. It incorporates several plant-based and non-GMO ingredients that may offer health benefits, yet it also includes sweeteners and flavors that detract from its overall cleanliness score. This product may serve as a stepping stone for individuals transitioning towards cleaner eating habits, although it does not fully embody the ideal of a completely clean food option.