Rockstar

Flavor:

Blueberry

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Citric Acid, Natural Flavors, Sodium benzoate (Preserves Freshness), Caffeine, Sucralose, Gum Arabic, Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Hemp Seed Oil, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Calcium Disodium EDTA (To Protect Flavor), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Lemon Balm Leaf Extract, Blue #1, Red #40, Spearmint Oil

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Rated at 1 out of 5 green leaves, the Rockstar Blueberry energy drink falls short of offering a cleaner food option. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified ingredients, both factors contributing to its low score. The presence of citric acid has been identified as an added sugar, further diminishing its standing.

A deeper look at the ingredients list reveals more causes for concern. The drink includes a range of artificial sweeteners such as acesulfame potassium, sucralose, and sucrose acetate isobutyrate, which are considered more harmful types of added sugars. These ingredients, commonly used to enhance sweetness without the caloric content of sugar, have been associated with negative health effects.

Moreover, the Rockstar Blueberry contains several additives that raise red flags. Natural flavors, while seemingly innocuous, are penalized for their lack of transparency. Calcium disodium EDTA, though used as a preservative, carries potential health concerns. The vitamins added, such as pyridoxine hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), are synthetic and not derived from natural sources.

The product also includes color additives, specifically Blue 1 and Red 40. These synthetic dyes have been linked to health issues and are considered known harmful additives. Sodium benzoate, another preservative, is included in this category due to its controversial nature and possible health implications.

The inclusion of hemp seed oil, lemon balm leaf extract, and spearmint oil does not offset the overwhelmingly negative aspects of the product’s composition. Despite these ingredients that may offer some benefits, the overall makeup of Rockstar Blueberry leads to a recommendation to avoid it altogether. The energy drink’s profile, dominated by non-organic, GMO, and potentially harmful ingredients, does not align with the values of those seeking cleaner, healthier food options.