Monster

Flavor:

Zero Sugar Monster Energy

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Citric Acid, Erythritol, Natural Flavors, Taurine, Sodium Citrate, Panax Ginseng Flavor, L-carnitine L-tartrate, Caffeine, Sucralose, Sorbic Acid (Preservative), Benzoic Acid (Preservative), Fruit Juice (Color), Niacinamide (Vit. B3), Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Salt, D-Glucuronolactone, Guarana Extract, Inositol, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vit. B6), Riboflavin (Vit. B2), Cyanocobalamin (Vit. B12).

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

This product receives a 2/5 green leaf rating.

Monster Zero Sugar Monster Energy positions itself as a zero-sugar energy drink alternative. However, the product is not organic, contains GMO ingredients, and features a range of artificial sweeteners and additives. The absence of organic certification and the presence of genetically modified components result in a significant reduction of its green leaf score.

The drink includes citric acid and erythritol, which are categorized as added sugars despite the zero-sugar claim. More concerning are the artificial sweeteners acesulfame potassium and sucralose, which are deducted points for being harmful added sugars. These sweeteners are controversial due to their potential health impacts. Moreover, the presence of ambiguous natural flavors, sodium citrate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, glucuronolactone, and additional sodium citrate, all classified as potentially harmful additives, further diminishes the product’s clean food rating.

The beverage does incorporate a variety of B-vitamins and amino acids like taurine and l-carnitine l-tartrate, which are common in energy drinks for their perceived benefits to energy and metabolism. However, these potentially positive ingredients are overshadowed by the negative aspects of the product’s composition.

The overall assessment of Monster Zero Sugar Monster Energy underscores the need for cleaner, more natural ingredients in food products. While the drink attempts to cater to health-conscious consumers seeking sugar-free options, the reliance on artificial sweeteners and the inclusion of GMOs and non-organic ingredients limit its appeal to those aiming for a truly clean diet. The product would benefit from a reformulation that prioritizes organic, non-GMO, and naturally sourced components. This would not only improve its green leaf rating but also align it more closely with the values of consumers seeking healthier, cleaner food choices.