Mountain Dew Kickstart

Flavor:

Black Cherry

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, High Fructose Corn Syrup, White Grape Juice Concentrate, Citric Acid, Caramel Color, Natural Flavor Sodium Hexametaphosphate (to Protect Flavor), Potassium Sorbate (Preserves Freshness), Gum Arabic, Caffeine, Potassium Citrate, Potassium Chloride, Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Sucralose, Red #40, Glycerol Ester of Rosin, Calcium Disodium EDTA (to Protect Flavor), Salt, Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate.

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Mountain Dew Kickstart Black Cherry falls significantly short of cleaner food standards due to its ingredient composition. This beverage is not organic, includes GMOs, and contains an array of added sugars and potentially harmful additives.

The product’s non-organic status and use of genetically modified ingredients immediately detract from its potential green leaf rating. The presence of added sugars is evident with the inclusion of high fructose corn syrup and white grape juice concentrate, both of which contribute to the overall sugar content. Further compounding the issue, the beverage contains additional sweeteners such as acesulfame potassium, sucralose, and sucrose acetate isobutyrate, which are artificial and raise concerns about their long-term health effects.

Beyond sugars, the Mountain Dew Kickstart Black Cherry is laden with a variety of additives. Sodium hexametaphosphate, potassium sorbate, and calcium disodium EDTA are used to protect flavor and extend shelf life, but their necessity and safety are questionable. Artificial colors, specifically caramel color and Red 40, are also present; these have been linked to negative health outcomes in some studies.

Notably, the drink includes high fructose corn syrup, an ingredient widely criticized for its association with obesity and other metabolic diseases. Its high quantity in the beverage contributes heavily to the low rating.

The product’s composition reflects a disregard for the health-conscious consumer seeking cleaner food options. The abundance of artificial ingredients and sweeteners, along with the lack of organic and non-GMO commitments, make the Mountain Dew Kickstart Black Cherry a poor choice for those aiming to minimize their intake of processed and potentially harmful substances. The 1/5 green leaves rating serves as a clear indicator that this product is best left on the shelf for those prioritizing their health and well-being.