C4 Energy

Flavor:

C4 Ultimate® Non Carbonated

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Malic Acid, CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, L-Citrulline, BetaPower Betaine Anhydrous, Taurine, Caffeine Anhydrous, Potassium Sorbate (preservative), Sucralose, Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Natural Flavors, Sodium Citrate, Niacinamide, AlphaSize (Alpha-Glyceryl Phosphoryl Choline), N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, Dipotassium phosphate, Cyancobalamin (Vitamin B12).

Rating: Not Clean

Ingredient Score:

Awarding the C4 Energy C4 Ultimate® Non Carbonated a score of 2 out of 5 green leaves, this product does not meet the criteria for cleaner food options that the website advocates for. The beverage is neither organic nor does it utilize non-GMO ingredients, which are foundational components in the evaluation of cleaner food products.

Delving into the specifics of its formulation, the presence of artificial sweeteners like Acesulfame Potassium and Sucralose significantly detracts from the product’s healthiness. These ingredients are often associated with a negative impact on health when consumed in large quantities over time. Furthermore, the inclusion of various additives like Natural Flavors, Potassium Sorbate, and Sodium Citrate, alongside Malic Acid, raises concerns due to their potential harmful effects. These components are commonly used in the food industry but are not aligned with the principles of clean eating.

The product also features a blend of active ingredients such as CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, L-Citrulline, and BetaPower Betaine Anhydrous, which are typically found in performance-enhancing supplements. While some may seek these for their purported benefits, it is the combination of synthetic sweeteners and additives that undermines the product’s overall clean food status.

The use of preservatives like Potassium Sorbate is another factor that contributes negatively to the product’s score. Preservatives are essential for prolonging shelf life but are often viewed with skepticism by those seeking natural and unprocessed food items. Additionally, the presence of Niacinamide and Cyancobalamin (Vitamin B12) is noted, although these vitamins do not compensate for the product’s other less desirable ingredients.

Despite the product’s intent to provide energy and potentially support physical performance, the reliance on ingredients that are not organic, non-GMO, or natural detracts from its appeal to those seeking cleaner dietary choices. The product would benefit from a reformulation that emphasizes natural, organic, and non-GMO ingredients to achieve a higher green leaf rating and align with the health-conscious values that consumers are increasingly demanding.