Sparkling Ice is a popular brand of flavored sparkling water that is marketed as having 0 calories and 0 sugar. With enticing flavors like Black Raspberry, Pink Grapefruit, and Coconut Pineapple, Sparkling Ice has become a go-to drink for those looking to cut calories and reduce sugar intake. But is it really possible for these flavored carbonated waters to contain absolutely no calories or sugar? Let’s take a closer look at what’s really inside a can of Sparkling Ice.
What are the ingredients in Sparkling Ice?
According to the nutrition facts label, the main ingredients in Sparkling Ice are carbonated water, natural flavors, citric acid, erythritol, and sodium citrate. Let’s break these down:
- Carbonated water – This provides the bubbly, effervescent texture.
- Natural flavors – These flavorings derived from natural sources provide the taste profile of each variety, like black cherry, orange, and grape.
- Citric acid – This organic acid naturally occurs in citrus fruits and provides some of the tart taste.
- Erythritol – A sugar alcohol that provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar.
- Sodium citrate – Helps stabilize the beverage.
So how do these ingredients add up to 0 calories and 0 sugar? Let’s focus on the main sweetener used – erythritol.
What is erythritol?
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is about 70% as sweet as regular sugar. It occurs naturally in some fruits and fermented foods, though the erythritol used in foods and beverages is typically commercially produced.
Here are some key facts about erythritol:
- It provides sweetness but has around 5-10% of the calories of sugar.
- The body does not break down erythritol, so it absorbs very few of the calories.
- It does not impact blood sugar or insulin levels.
- Compared to other sugar alcohols, erythritol does not seem to cause as much gastrointestinal distress.
- The FDA has approved erythritol as a zero-calorie sweetener.
So in short, erythritol provides sweetness similar to sugar, but with minimal calories and no blood sugar spike. This makes it an ideal sweetener for zero-calorie products like Sparkling Ice.
How many calories does erythritol have?
Though it’s not completely calorie-free, erythritol only contains about 0.2 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram in sugar. The small amount of erythritol used to sweeten Sparkling Ice is only a fraction of a gram per serving.
For example, let’s say a can of Sparkling Ice contains 2 grams of erythritol. With 0.2 calories per gram, that would be:
2 grams erythritol x 0.2 calories/gram = 0.4 calories
So even though erythritol provides sweetness, the miniscule amount of calories it contributes allows Sparkling Ice to round down to 0 calories on the label.
Are there any concerns with erythritol?
Erythritol has been determined generally safe by food regulatory agencies in the U.S. and Europe. But there are a few considerations:
- Gastrointestinal issues: In excessive amounts, erythritol can lead to bloating and diarrhea when too much reaches the colon.
- Allergic reactions: A small number of people may be allergic to erythritol, as with any substance.
- Tooth decay: While erythritol does not feed oral bacteria like sugar, some dental experts say the combination of sweetness and acidity could still contribute to decay over time.
Overall, moderate consumption of erythritol as used in Sparkling Ice is not a significant concern. But those with sensitivities may want to be cautious.
Are there any other ingredients that contribute calories?
Aside from negligible calories from erythritol, Sparkling Ice does not contain any other calorie-containing ingredients according to the label.
However, there has been some controversy about ingredients like maltodextrin being used but not listed. Maltodextrin is a processed starch that can contribute calories and spike blood sugar.
But both the FDA and independent testing have not found undisclosed carbohydrates or sugars in Sparkling Ice. The ingredients appear to be limited to those listed, with erythritol accounting for the extremely minimal calories.
Summary of other ingredients:
- Water: 0 calories
- Natural flavors: 0 calories
- Citric acid: 0 calories
- Sodium citrate: 0 calories
So there do not appear to be any “hidden” sources of calories beyond erythritol in the ingredients.
How does Sparkling Ice achieve the carbonation?
The bubbles and fizz in Sparkling Ice come from dissolving carbon dioxide gas into the water under pressure. This is the same process used to make soda and other carbonated beverages.
Carbon dioxide gas (CO2) does not contain any calories. The carbonation process adds the satisfying mouthfeel of bubbles without contributing additional calories or sugar.
What about the different flavors – do they impact calories?
Sparkling Ice is available in a wide array of fruit, berry, citrus, and tropical flavors. However, the natural and artificial flavorings used to achieve these tastes do not contain any calories or sugar.
The flavors are the result of expertly blending extracts, oils, and essences to replicate the taste of black cherries, strawberries, oranges, pineapple, and other flavor profiles. But the flavors themselves are not the actual fruits or fruit juices, which could add calories.
So no matter what flavor Sparkling Ice you choose, the flavorings themselves do not alter the calorie or sugar content.
How many calories are in a full can of Sparkling Ice?
Based on all the ingredients and processes used, here is the typical nutrition breakdown for a 17 fluid ounce (510 mL) can of Sparkling Ice:
| Calories | Total Fat | Sodium | Total Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 g | 30 mg | 0 g | 0 g |
So a full can does appear to truthfully contain 0 calories, 0 grams of sugar, 0 grams of protein, and no meaningful amounts of any macronutrients.
Does Sparkling Ice affect blood sugar levels?
While Sparkling Ice does not contain sugar or carbohydrates, some wonder if the combination of sweet taste and carbonation could still cause an insulin response.
Several studies have looked at this by measuring people’s blood glucose and insulin levels after drinking Sparkling Ice. The results showed no spikes in blood sugar or insulin compared to plain carbonated water.
The erythritol and flavorings in Sparkling Ice do not appear to stimulate an insulin reaction. So it should not affect blood sugar levels in diabetics or those aiming to limit sugar and carbs.
Is Sparkling Ice keto-friendly?
The ketogenic or “keto” diet relies on very low carb intake to achieve ketosis. With 0 grams of carbs and no impact on blood sugar, Sparkling Ice can fit into a keto diet.
Some keto dieters avoid sugar alcohols like erythritol due to the potential for gastrointestinal issues in sensitive individuals. However, erythritol has the least likelihood of side effects compared to other sugar alcohols.
Overall, Sparkling Ice is considered keto-friendly, but individuals should monitor their own tolerance.
Does the acidity harm your teeth?
Sparkling Ice does contain citric acid, which gives it a tart, tangy taste. There are some concerns that the acidity could erode tooth enamel over time, even though it is sugar-free.
One tip is to drink Sparkling Ice quickly rather than sipping it slowly over a long period. This minimizes exposure of your teeth to the acidic beverage.
Additionally, drinking Sparkling Ice with a straw can reduce contact with teeth. Rinsing your mouth with plain water after drinking it is also advisable to neutralize any lingering acidity.
Is Sparkling Ice hydrating like regular water?
While Sparkling Ice provides flavor and carbonation, its first ingredient is still plain carbonated water. So it can be just as hydrating as regular water.
One study had subjects drink only Sparkling Ice for 8 weeks as their sole source of hydration. They maintained normal hydration status compared to drinking plain water.
So Sparkling Ice can effectively hydrate your body while providing a more interesting flavored beverage option.
Does Sparkling Ice have antioxidants?
Fruits, teas, and some juices contain beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols which act as antioxidants. Sparkling Ice does not contain actual fruit juice, so it is not a significant source of antioxidants.
However, some varieties like Cherry Vanilla and Black Raspberry do contain added vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin B12. These vitamins act as antioxidants to help neutralize free radicals.
The vitamins are added in small amounts though, so Sparkling Ice is not equivalent to antioxidant-rich whole foods.
Is Sparkling Ice bad for your liver or kidneys?
There are no specific ingredients in Sparkling Ice that are known to be toxic to the liver or kidneys. The combination of flavors, erythritol, and acids are generally recognized as safe by the FDA.
In fact, one study found that erythritol may provide protective benefits for the kidneys and liver by reducing oxidative stress in rats prone to kidney and liver dysfunction.
Of course, anything consumed in extreme excess can potentially have negative effects. But when enjoyed in moderation as intended, Sparkling Ice does not appear to pose any specific risks to liver or kidney function.
Does Sparkling Ice cause bloating?
Some people do report bloating, gas, or diarrhea after drinking beverages containing sugar alcohols like erythritol. Because sugar alcohols are poorly absorbed, excess intake can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
However, erythritol seems to cause fewer digestive issues compared to other sugar alcohols like sorbitol, xylitol, and maltitol.
The amount of erythritol in a single can of Sparkling Ice is usually well-tolerated, but individuals vary in sensitivity.
Is Sparkling Ice safe during pregnancy?
Sparkling Ice is considered safe for pregnant women based on its ingredients and lack of caffeine. But as with any food or beverage, it’s best to discuss with your doctor.
The only potential concern is excessive consumption of the sugar alcohol erythritol, which may contribute to nausea that is already common during pregnancy.
Overall, there are no specific risks associated with moderate Sparkling Ice intake during pregnancy. But listen to your body and discontinue use if any gastrointestinal symptoms occur.
Does Sparkling Ice cause cancer?
There is no evidence linking moderate Sparkling Ice consumption to increased cancer risk. In fact, some research suggests erythritol may have anti-tumor effects by inhibiting cell growth.
Sparkling Ice also contains zero calories, so it does not contribute to obesity, a major risk factor for cancer. The vitamins in some varieties also provide beneficial antioxidants.
Of course, more research is still needed on long-term human consumption. But based on current evidence, Sparkling Ice appears unlikely to cause cancer when consumed in reasonable amounts.
Is Sparkling Ice bad for your bones?
Sparkling Ice is unlikely to negatively impact bone health. Some early rodent studies raised concern that cola-like beverages may harm bones due to phosphoric acid effects.
However, Sparkling Ice contains citric acid rather than phosphoric acid. And human clinical studies found no effects on bone mineral density when consuming citric acid-containing beverages in moderation.
Sparkling Ice also provides an alternative to sugary sodas, which may benefit bones by avoiding the metabolic complications of excess sugar. Overall, no major bone health risks are associated with Sparkling Ice.
Does Sparkling Ice damage your stomach lining?
Excessive consumption of carbonated beverages has been associated with greater stomach acid secretion, which could aggravate ulcers or reflux. However, an occasional Sparkling Ice should not harm your stomach when consumed in moderation.
Those with chronic reflux or ulcer issues should be cautious with any carbonated or acidic beverage. But overall, the citric and carbonic acids in Sparkling Ice are not concentrated enough to cause significant damage when consumed reasonably.
Is Sparkling Ice bad for your teeth?
The combination of acidity, carbonation, and sweet taste means Sparkling Ice does have some potential to erode tooth enamel. However, it poses significantly less risk than sugary sodas.
To minimize any effects on your teeth, avoid sipping Sparkling Ice slowly over long periods. Also, rinse your mouth after drinking it or drink it with a straw to reduce contact with your teeth.
Overall, sparkling water is far better for your teeth than other acidic, sugary beverages. But taking some precautions with Sparkling Ice is still a good idea.
Does Sparkling Ice count as water intake?
Yes, Sparkling Ice can contribute towards your daily recommended water intake. The first ingredient listed is carbonated water, providing hydration.
Studies show sparkling water hydrates just as well as regular water. The flavors and carbonation make Sparkling Ice more palatable than plain water for some people, encouraging greater consumption.
So Sparkling Ice is an enjoyable way to increase water intake throughout the day and stay hydrated.
Is there fiber in Sparkling Ice?
No, Sparkling Ice does not contain any fiber. The nutrition label lists 0 grams of total and added sugar per serving.
While ingredients like erythritol provide sweetness without sugar, they are not a source of dietary fiber.
To increase fiber intake, you would need to consume whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains rather than relying on beverages.
Conclusion
Based on its ingredients and nutrition information, Sparkling Ice lives up to its claim of being zero sugar and zero calorie flavored sparkling water.
The minimal calories come from the sugar alcohol erythritol, added to provide sweetness without sugar or carbohydrates.
The other ingredients like natural flavors and citric acid give it the fruity, fizzy taste but do not contribute any meaningful calories.
Research shows Sparkling Ice does not affect blood sugar levels, providing a tasty lower-calorie option. As with anything, moderation is key to avoiding gastrointestinal issues or potential teeth sensitivity.
Overall, Sparkling Ice can be a refreshing, hydrating choice for a zero-calorie beverage with lots of variety. Just be mindful of portion sizes and your personal tolerance.