Rockstar

Flavor:

Mandarin Orange

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Citric Acid, Erythritol, Taurine, Sodium Citrate, Natural Flavors, Caffeine, Sodium benzoate (Preserves Freshness), Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K, acesulfame K), Glucuronolactone, Sucralose, Potassium Sorbate (Preserves Freshness), Inositol, Gum Arabic, Yellow #6, Glycerol Ester Of Rosin, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Milk Thistle Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Guarana Seed Extract, Caramel Color, Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Rating: We Avoid

Ingredient Score:

Awarded a rating of 1/5 green leaves, the Rockstar Mandarin Orange energy drink falls at the lowest end of the spectrum on our cleaner food options scale. This product does not meet the criteria for organic certification, nor does it use non-GMO ingredients. The inclusion of added sugars, particularly citric acid and erythritol, detracts from its standing. More concerning are the artificial sweeteners acesulfame potassium and sucralose, which further reduce its score due to their potential health implications.

Beyond sweeteners, the Rockstar Mandarin Orange contains a range of additives that raise red flags. The term ‘natural flavor’ encompasses an unspecified mix of ingredients, which lacks transparency for consumers. Preservatives such as potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate extend shelf life but are not aligned with a clean eating philosophy. Additional colorants like caramel color and Yellow 6 are synthetic and have been associated with adverse health effects in some studies.

The drink’s formulation includes a cocktail of vitamins and 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 components may offer some benefits, the presence of other contentious ingredients overshadows these potential positives.

The Rockstar Mandarin Orange energy drink is not recommended for those seeking healthier, cleaner food and beverage options. Its composition reflects a reliance on non-organic, GMO, and artificial components that do not align with our standards for clean eating. Consumers looking for energy drinks would be well advised to seek alternatives that prioritize natural ingredients, omit artificial additives and sweeteners, and ideally, hold organic certification.