Zevia

Flavor:

Vanilla Cola

Ingredients:

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

Rating: Average

Ingredient Score:

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, Zevia Vanilla Cola presents itself as a middle-of-the-road choice for those seeking cleaner food options. This beverage stands out by not using artificial sweeteners, instead opting for Stevia Leaf Extract, a natural alternative to sugar. Moreover, it’s a non-GMO product, which aligns with the preferences of health-conscious consumers.

However, it is not an organic beverage, which detracts from its potential to be a top clean food choice. The presence of Stevia, while a natural sweetener, still counts as an added sugar according to our criteria and affects the product’s score negatively. Additionally, the inclusion of ‘Natural Flavors’ raises concerns, as this term often masks a variety of unspecified ingredients, which could be unwanted by those strictly monitoring their intake.

The product’s formula is simple, with only a handful of ingredients: Carbonated Water, Stevia Leaf Extract, Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid, and Caffeine. The acids present serve as preservatives and contribute to the overall taste profile. Despite the minimal ingredient list, the deduction of points for the non-organic nature and the potential ambiguity surrounding ‘Natural Flavors’ impacts the overall rating.

This beverage offers an alternative to traditional colas that are laden with artificial sweeteners and flavors. It is a step towards cleaner eating, yet it does not fully embody the ideal of a wholly clean food product. The use of non-GMO ingredients is a positive aspect, and the avoidance of artificial sweeteners is commendable.

For consumers navigating the complex food market, Zevia Vanilla Cola may serve as a moderate option. It does not excel in every category but provides certain benefits that may appeal to those looking to reduce their intake of artificial ingredients without completely sacrificing the experience of a sweet, carbonated drink.