Zevia

Flavor:

Cola

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Stevia Leaf Extract, Natural flavors, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid, Caffeine

Rating: Average

Ingredient Score:

Zevia Cola earns a 3 out of 5 green leaves rating on our scale for cleaner food options. This rating reflects a balanced view of the product’s attributes in the context of health-conscious consumption.

Zevia Cola is not an organic beverage. Its formulation includes carbonated water, caffeine, and stevia leaf extract. Stevia, a natural sweetener, serves as the primary sugar substitute, which aligns with the demand for lower-calorie options without artificial sweeteners. However, the use of stevia does result in a deduction from the total score due to our criteria regarding added sugars.

The product proudly states it uses non-GMO ingredients, which is a positive aspect for consumers looking to avoid genetically modified organisms in their diet. This commitment to non-GMO ingredients is a notable feature that aligns with the product’s cleaner food proposition.

The presence of natural flavors and citric acid leads to a further reduction in the score. The term ‘natural flavors’ covers a broad range of possible ingredients, some of which may raise concerns among the most health-conscious consumers. Citric acid, while commonly used in the food industry, is also penalized under our scoring system.

Tartaric acid, another component, is a naturally occurring acid found in many plants. Its inclusion does not affect the product’s score, as it is not on our list of harmful additives. The inclusion of caffeine is noteworthy for those looking to moderate their intake, but it does not impact the overall score.

As a beverage option in the market, Zevia Cola stands out for its use of stevia and non-GMO ingredients. The lack of organic certification and the inclusion of ingredients such as natural flavors and citric acid affect its rating, positioning it as an average choice for those seeking cleaner alternatives. The product maintains a middle ground, offering certain benefits while also presenting areas for improvement within the scope of cleaner, healthier food options.