The Rise in Popularity of LaCroix
LaCroix sparkling water has become increasingly popular in recent years. With its wide variety of fruit-flavored seltzers, LaCroix offers a zero-calorie, zero-sugar alternative to traditional sodas and sugary beverages.
According to Nielsen data, sales of LaCroix have skyrocketed from $65 million in 2012 to $226 million in 2017 – a whopping 250% increase in just 5 years. The brand went from being available in 15 states in 2012 to being sold nationwide by 2015.
So what’s behind the meteoric rise of LaCroix? Many health-conscious consumers view it as a healthier alternative to soda. With no calories, sugar, or artificial sweeteners, LaCroix seems like the perfect low-calorie, flavorful beverage. The variety of fruity flavors makes LaCroix far more interesting than plain seltzer water. It provides carbonation and flavor without the downsides of traditional soft drinks.
LaCroix has also benefitted from smart and targeted marketing. The brand has cultivated a reputation as the perfect millennial-friendly drink – naturally flavored, sugar-free, and playfully retro. Their signature colorful cans would blend right in at a hip cafe or trendy office space.
Additionally, celebrity endorsements from the likes of Kate Upton and Adam DeVine have given LaCroix a boost. Like Kombucha, it’s managed to gain a reputation as a staple for health nuts, giving the brand a halo effect among consumers seeking healthy alternatives to soda.
LaCroix’s Ingredients – Natural or Processed?
Though LaCroix contains no calories, sugar, or artificial sweeteners, some have questioned how “natural” and healthy the ingredients actually are.
LaCroix’s ingredients include:
– Carbonated water
– Natural flavor
– Citric acid
– Sodium hexametaphosphate
– Potassium bicarbonate
– Potassium sorbate preservative
– Other “natural flavors” depending on the variety.
The primary ingredients – carbonated water and natural flavor – seem harmless. But some particular ingredients have raised concerns among health-conscious consumers:
Citric Acid
Citric acid is included in LaCroix to provide tartness and amplify the fruit flavors. While citric acid does exist naturally in citrus fruits, the citric acid in LaCroix is likely synthetically produced. Most citric acid in processed foods is created by fermenting sugars with Aspergillus niger mold.
Some research has found that large amounts of citric acid may contribute to erosion of tooth enamel. The citric acid in sparkling water is not a health concern for occasional drinkers, but it could negatively impact dental health if consumed excessively daily.
Sodium Hexametaphosphate
Sodium hexametaphosphate is a synthetic compound used in LaCroix to prevent the growth of yeast, fungus, and bacteria that could spoil the product. Also known as sodium polymetaphosphate, it’s included in moderation and likely does not pose any health risks. However, it is a processed chemical additive rather than a natural ingredient.
Potassium Sorbate
Potassium sorbate is another preservative used to prevent spoilage and bacterial contamination in LaCroix. Similarly to sodium hexametaphosphate, it is GRAS (generally recognized as safe) in the quantities used. However, some consumers try to avoid excess exposure to preservatives.
Nutritional Profile of LaCroix
One of the major appeals of LaCroix is its lack of calories, sugar, and artificial sweeteners. Here’s how it stacks up nutritionally:
| Nutrition Facts – 12 oz LaCroix |
|---|
| Calories 0 |
| Total Fat 0g |
| Sodium 0mg |
| Total Carbohydrate 0g |
| Protein 0g |
With zero calories, zero sugar, and zero sodium, LaCroix contains no significant macro or micronutrients.
Essentially, from a nutritional perspective, LaCroix is just carbonated water infused with natural and artificial flavorings. The fruit flavors contain trace amounts of acids found naturally in the fruits, but not enough to provide any measurable vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants.
So people choosing LaCroix purely for its nutritional profile may want to reconsider. While it hydrates like plain water, it provides very little else nutritionally. The value of LaCroix is in satisfying carbonation and fruit flavors without artificial sweeteners or a sugary nutritional profile.
The Debate on Artificial vs. Natural Flavors
One of the most controversial aspects of LaCroix is its use of “natural flavors.”
LaCroix uses different fruit extracts to give each variety its signature flavor, from lime and grapefruit to coconut and mango. However, the company does not specify what exactly these “natural flavors” entail on the ingredient list.
The FDA defines “natural flavors” as:
The essential oil, oleoresin, essence or extractive, protein hydrolysate, distillate, or any product of roasting, heating or enzymolysis, which contains the flavoring constituents derived from a spice, fruit or fruit juice, vegetable or vegetable juice, edible yeast, herb, bark, bud, root, leaf or similar plant material, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or fermentation products thereof, whose significant function in food is flavoring rather than nutritional.
So “natural flavors” encompasses a broad array of flavor compounds derived from plant and animal sources. The label tells us nothing about what parts of the fruit LaCroix uses for flavors or how they are processed and extracted.
Some brands use compounds like ethyl butyrate to provide flavors. While found naturally in fruit, ethyl butyrate is chemically synthesized in factories for mass production. It can be labeled as a “natural flavor” when added to foods.
So while LaCroix does not contain artificial sweeteners or “artificial flavors,” their “natural flavors” may still involve heavy processing and extraction. LaCroix is not required to specify whether the compounds are naturally derived or created in a lab.
Consumers seeking additives and preservatives free seltzer may want to look for clearer labeling around flavors from brands using fruit juice concentrates and essential oils.
Health Benefits of Drinking LaCroix
Despite concerns around some particular ingredients, LaCroix does have some health advantages over regular soda and sugary beverages.
Hydration Without Calories or Sugar
Staying hydrated is vital for overall health. Drinking adequate water improves energy levels, digestion, skin appearance, weight control, and kidney function.
However, people often turn to sugary beverages and sodas for hydration, rather than opting for plain water. LaCroix allows people to stay hydrated while enjoying flavor and carbonation.
Replacing even a few high-calorie sodas per day with LaCroix can save hundreds of calories weekly. LaCroix is an ideal alternative to cut back on sugar and calories without sacrificing the fizzy flavor of soda.
Potential Dental Health Benefits
While the citric acid in LaCroix may cause slight enamel erosion with excessive consumption, it’s far less damaging than drinking regular soda or juice.
Carbonated water like LaCroix actually has a neutral pH and does not erode enamel like acidic drinks. The carbonation may even improve mouth feel and saliva flow compared to still water.
So enjoying LaCroix in moderation is generally better for dental health than frequent consumption of sugar-loaded acidic sodas and juices that fuel cavities and decay.
Avoids Artificial Sweeteners
LaCroix has no sugar but also includes no artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose.
While artificial sweeteners may aid weight loss and blood sugar control compared to sugar, some research suggests they could negatively impact gut bacteria diversity and health when consumed regularly.
LaCroix avoids sweeteners like Splenda and Equal. So if you’re concerned about the impacts of artificial sweeteners, LaCroix offers a flavored carbonated option without them.
Provides Antioxidants
While LaCroix’s antioxidants content is minimal compared to actual fruit juices and whole fruits, it does contain some beneficial compounds.
Research shows LaCroix includes trace levels of antioxidants like limonene and hesperetin from the natural fruit flavors used. These compounds have anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and anticancer benefits when consumed regularly in larger amounts.
So while the antioxidant content of LaCroix isn’t remarkably high, it likely does have slightly more antioxidants than plain seltzer water.
Risks and Downsides of Drinking LaCroix
May Contribute to Dental Erosion
As mentioned earlier, the main downside of LaCroix for dental health is potential enamel erosion from carbonation and acids.
Acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits and sodas soften tooth enamel, making it more prone to erosion and damage over time.
Carbonated water may exacerbate this effect. The CO2 bubbles create acidity when combined with water, lowering pH. Carbonation also uniquely exposes teeth to more frequent acid attacks when drinking bubbly beverages.
However, occasional enjoyment of LaCroix is unlikely to harm dental health significantly. But frequent, excessive consumption could lead to erosion issues.
Adds to Plastic Waste
Like all bottled and canned beverages, LaCroix does produce plastic waste, contributing to plastic pollution and overflowing landfills.
The BPA-free aluminum cans are recyclable, which helps. However, proper recycling requires diligence by the consumer. Many cans unfortunately end up in landfills and oceans.
If you’re concerned about plastic waste, sparkling water dispensers are a reusable alternative allowing you to add your own carbonation to tap water.
You can also purchase glass bottle options from some brands to avoid single-use cans and plastics entirely. However, glass is heavier to transport and carries a larger carbon footprint.
High Sodium Content in Some Flavors
People on sodium-restricted diets should take note that some LaCroix flavors contain more sodium than others.
For example, the Coconut flavor packs 160mg of sodium per 12oz can. The mango and apricot varieties both have 100mg per can.
This isn’t alarmingly high compared to typical processed snacks and foods. But it’s worth being mindful of for those monitoring their salt intake closely for medical reasons.
Some flavors like Limoncello, Pure, and Berries & Bubbles contain zero sodium per can for a more diet-friendly option.
Contains Synthetic Substances and Preservatives
As mentioned earlier, some ingredients like sodium hexametaphosphate and potassium sorbate are synthetic chemical additives added to give LaCroix a longer shelf life.
While these generally recognized as safe compounds likely aren’t harmful in moderation, some health-conscious consumers prefer to avoid artificial preservatives where possible.
Reading labels and researching brands thoroughly can help identify more preservative-free options if this is a priority for you.
Is LaCroix Worth the Cost?
A major downside for some consumers is LaCroix’s high price point, typically $4-6 for a 12 pack of cans. Generic brands sell for closer to $2-3 per 12 pack. Is LaCroix worth paying the premium price?
**Pros of paying more for LaCroix:**
– Unique, appealing flavors like Pampelmousse and Passionfruit. Store brands tend to offer simpler options like lemon and lime.
– Trendy, eye-catching packaging and branding. LaCroix has cultivated an air of sophistication and health around the product.
– Perception of being a healthier and more natural option than generic brands. Whether this is true or not is up for debate.
– BPA-free cans. Some cheaper brands still use BPA liners in cans, which may leach hormone-disrupting BPA into the beverage over time.
**Cons of paying more for LaCroix:**
– At 2-3x the typical price of store brands, the cost adds up, especially for frequent drinkers.
– No definitive proof it is healthier than store brands with similar ingredients. In most cases, you’re paying more for branding.
– Premium pricing means more exclusivity – parents may not want to pay extra for kids to guzzle flavored water.
– Premium branding results in premium waste – most LaCroix drinkers don’t recycle those stylish cans.
Overall, LaCroix is generally worth it if budget is not a major concern and you’re interested in the trendier flavor options and branding. But for most households, store brand sparkling waters are a more economical choice.
FAQs
Does LaCroix hydrate as well as regular water?
Yes, LaCroix hydrates just as effectively as regular water. The carbonation causes a bubbly, effervescent texture, but it does not reduce the hydrating properties of water. Some find carbonated water even more satiating than regular flat water, making it easier to drink more.
Is LaCroix bad for your teeth?
Moderately drinking LaCroix should not damage dental health. But excessive, frequent consumption could contribute to enamel erosion over time due to the acidity of the carbonation and flavorings. Water is the ideal beverage for tooth health.
Is LaCroix vegan?
Yes, LaCroix does meet vegan standards, as it contains no animal products or byproducts. Some flavors use honey flavoring or beeswax lining the cans, so vegans should check labels for these details. But classic LaCroix flavors contain no animal-derived ingredients.
Does LaCroix cause weight gain?
No, LaCroix is unlikely to lead to weight gain due to its zero calorie formula. Replacing high-calorie sodas and juices with LaCroix could even aid weight loss. However, the carbonation may cause temporary bloating.
Is LaCroix gluten-free?
Yes, all LaCroix flavors are certified gluten-free, making them a safe beverage choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. LaCroix contains no wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains.
The Bottom Line
LaCroix offers a flavored, fizzy alternative to sodas without the calories, sugar, or artificial sweeteners. While not as nutritious as actual fruit juice, it provides antioxidants and hydration with zero calories and sugar.
LaCroix makes an ideal replacement for high-calorie sugary beverages but provides minimal nutritional value beyond flavored carbonated water. The natural vs. artificial flavor debate continues, but in moderation, LaCroix is generally considered safe.
Paying the premium price provides access to unique flavors and trendy branding. Still, store brands offer a more affordable way to enjoy flavored seltzer. Ultimately, LaCroix is a healthy choice within reason, but it shouldn’t replace actual fruit and vegetables in the diet.
