Zevia

Flavor:

Mountain Zevia

Ingredients:

Carbonated Water, Stevia Leaf Extract, Natural Flavors, Caffeine, Citric Acid

Rating: Average

Ingredient Score:

Awarded a 3/5 green leaves rating, Zevia Mountain Zevia is a beverage that positions itself in the middle ground of the health-conscious market. This particular product does not include organic ingredients, which detracts from its overall score. However, it does have the advantage of using non-GMO components, aligning with the preferences of consumers who prioritize genetically unmodified food sources.

The ingredient list is relatively simple, comprising carbonated water, stevia leaf extract, natural flavors, caffeine, and citric acid. Stevia leaf extract serves as the sweetening agent, a plant-based alternative to artificial sweeteners and added sugars. While stevia is a natural substitute and does not raise blood sugar levels like conventional sugar, it is still penalized in this scoring system due to the preference for products without sweeteners.

A significant deduction in the product’s rating comes from the inclusion of ‘natural flavors.’ The term ‘natural flavors’ is broad and can encompass a variety of substances, some of which may not align with the clean eating philosophy. This ambiguity leads to a reduction in the product’s score, as it raises concerns about potential health impacts.

Caffeine and citric acid are also present in the beverage. Caffeine is a common stimulant found in many drinks, and its effects are well-documented. Citric acid, on the other hand, is a natural preservative that also adds a tart flavor to the drink. While neither ingredient is inherently harmful, the presence of citric acid contributes to the deductions, as it is considered an added substance.

Zevia Mountain Zevia, therefore, receives a moderate rating on the website, reflective of its balance between clean ingredients and those that fall outside the ideal criteria for health-focused consumers. The drink stands as an option for those seeking a middle path: better than many traditional sodas on the market but not reaching the pinnacle of what is considered the cleanest choice available.