Rockstar

Flavor:

Hardcore Apple

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Sugar, Glucose Syrup, Citric Acid, Taurine, Natural Flavors, Sodium Citrate, Caffeine, Sodium benzoate (Preserves Freshness), Potassium Sorbate (Preserves Freshness), L-carnitine, Inositol, Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Sucralose, Caramel Color, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Milk Thistle Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Guarana Seed Extract, Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Rockstar Hardcore Apple energy drink earns the lowest possible score on our clean food scale. This beverage is not organic and contains both genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and multiple forms of added sugars, including sugar, glucose syrup, and the artificial sweeteners acesulfame potassium and sucralose. These ingredients are often associated with negative health effects when consumed in excess.

The product also includes a range of additives that may pose health risks. Natural flavors, while seemingly innocuous, are not transparent in their composition and can consist of various chemical compounds. Sodium citrate, used here as a preservative and flavor enhancer, along with potassium sorbate, work to extend shelf life but are synthetic and may have adverse effects. Caramel color, another additive, has been scrutinized for its potential health impacts.

Sodium benzoate, another preservative found in the drink, has raised concerns due to its possible reaction with ascorbic acid to form benzene, a known carcinogen. Although the levels in food products are typically low, the presence of such additives is undesirable for those seeking cleaner food options.

In addition to these ingredients, the energy drink contains caffeine, taurine, and a blend of vitamins and herbal extracts such as niacinamide, calcium pantothenate, milk thistle extract, Panax ginseng root extract, guarana seed extract, and vitamins B6 and B12. While vitamins and herbal supplements may offer benefits, they are presented here within a mix of less desirable ingredients.

With a focus on providing cleaner, healthier food options, the Rockstar Hardcore Apple energy drink does not align with our standards. Its composition of non-organic, GMO, and potentially harmful additives and sweeteners contributes to its low rating. Consumers seeking healthier beverages should consider alternatives that are organic, free from artificial additives, and contain no added sugars.