Monster

Flavor:

Zero-sugar Ultra Gold

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Erythritol, Taurine, Citric Acid, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Sodium Citrate, Panax Ginseng Flavor, L-carnitine L-tartrate, Potassium Sorbate (Preservative), Caffeine, Sucralose, Sodium benzoate (Preservative), Niacinamide (Vit. B3), D-calcium Pantothenate (Vit. B5), Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Salt, Inositol, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vit. B6), Yellow #5, Red #40, Cyanocobalamin (Vit. B12). Contains No Fruit Juice

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Monster Zero-sugar Ultra Gold energy drink positions itself as a zero-sugar option in the energy drink market. However, the absence of sugar does not equate to a cleaner product. The drink is not organic and includes genetically modified ingredients, which detracts from its potential health benefits. Its ingredient list features a range of additives such as erythritol, a sugar alcohol, and synthetic sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium. These components are often viewed unfavorably by those seeking natural food options.

The presence of artificial flavors, colors like Yellow 5 and Red 40, and preservatives such as potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate further diminish the product’s standing. These elements are associated with potential health risks and are often excluded from diets focused on clean eating. The inclusion of vitamins such as niacinamide, d-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, and cyanocobalamin does not offset the negative aspects of the other ingredients.

The product does not contain high fructose corn syrup, but the term ‘Artificial Flavor’ in the ingredients list is associated with this deduction due to the negative perception of artificial additives. The drink’s formulation, with its emphasis on non-organic, GMO ingredients and various artificial additives, leads to a low rating within the context of clean eating and health-conscious consumption.

The Monster Zero-sugar Ultra Gold energy drink, despite its zero-sugar claim, carries a multitude of ingredients that do not align with the principles of clean eating. The product’s low green leaf rating reflects its composition, which prioritizes artificial and chemically-derived ingredients over natural, organic ones. Consumers seeking healthier, cleaner food and beverage options are advised to consider alternatives that adhere more closely to the values of organic and non-GMO ingredients, and that avoid artificial additives and sweeteners.