Snapple

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the Snapple Kiwi Strawberry beverage presents itself as a middle-of-the-road choice for those seeking cleaner food options. This product is not organic and contains genetically modified ingredients, which impacts its score on our scale of health-conscious selections. Additionally, the presence of added sugars and potentially harmful additives further decreases its standing.

The drink is composed of filtered water, kiwi and strawberry juice concentrates, sugar, and citric acid, which contribute to its sweetness. The inclusion of sugar, a source of added sugars, is a notable concern for those monitoring their sugar intake. Citric acid, while naturally occurring in citrus fruits, is often used to preserve freshness and enhance flavor, but it is also considered an added sugar when used in excess.

Natural flavors and ester gum are listed among the ingredients, and these are identified as potentially harmful additives. Natural flavors, a term that encompasses a variety of chemical components, can be seen as a red flag for those aiming for transparency in ingredient lists. Ester gum, used as an emulsifier or stabilizer, also raises questions for those dedicated to clean eating.

The Snapple Kiwi Strawberry beverage does score positively in some areas, such as the use of acacia gum, a natural gum derived from the acacia tree, and vegetable juice concentrate for color, which is a preferable alternative to synthetic dyes.

Overall, this product occupies a space that neither fully commits to the clean food movement nor entirely disregards it. It offers a choice for consumers who may not prioritize organic or non-GMO ingredients but are still looking for a drink that avoids artificial colors. As such, it holds an average position in the market, providing an option that balances between cleaner ingredients and conventional production practices.