The Nutritional Breakdown of Surfside Canned Cocktails
Surfside has gained significant traction in the beverage market for its simple, transparent nutritional profile. Unlike many traditional canned cocktails or sugary mixed drinks that can contain hundreds of calories, Surfside provides a clear, concise offering. Each 12oz can consistently contains 100 calories across its various iced tea and lemonade flavors. This is a key selling point for a growing consumer base that is increasingly mindful of their calorie intake, even when enjoying an alcoholic beverage.
Beyond just the calorie count, the low sugar content is another impressive aspect of Surfside's nutritional facts. Each 12oz can typically contains only 2 to 3 grams of sugar, a stark contrast to many other canned alcoholic teas and lemonades that rely heavily on sweetening agents to mask the taste of alcohol. The carbohydrate count is also modest, sitting at just 3 grams per can. This makes Surfside a suitable option for those following low-carb dietary approaches.
Key Nutritional Facts (per 12oz can):
- Calories: 100
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 4.5%
- Sugar: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Gluten-Free: Yes, made with Stateside Vodka
- Carbonation: None
The Low-Calorie Appeal of Non-Carbonated Drinks
One of the unique features of Surfside that contributes to its appeal is its complete lack of carbonation. While many popular hard seltzers and cocktails rely on bubbles for their refreshing quality, Surfside offers a smooth, bubble-free experience, similar to a traditional iced tea or lemonade. This can be particularly attractive to consumers who experience bloating or discomfort from carbonated beverages. This distinction sets it apart from the saturated hard seltzer market, catering to a specific niche of drinkers who prefer a flat, easy-drinking profile. The non-carbonated formula also means you can enjoy multiple cans over a longer period without the fullness that can come from carbonated drinks.
Comparison of Canned Alcoholic Drinks
To put Surfside's low-calorie claim into perspective, let's compare its nutritional profile to other popular canned alcoholic beverages.
| Feature | Surfside Iced Tea / Lemonade + Vodka | Hard Seltzers (e.g., White Claw) | Malt-Based Hard Iced Teas | Traditional Sugary Canned Cocktails |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories (12oz) | 100 | ~100 | 200+ | 200-300+ |
| Sugar (12oz) | 2-3g | 2g | High, often 20g+ | High, often 20g+ |
| Base Alcohol | Stateside Vodka | Fermented Sugar | Malt Liquor | Varies (often spirits) |
| Carbonation | No | Yes | Yes (often) | Varies |
| Gluten-Free | Yes | Varies (often yes) | Often No | Varies |
| Taste Profile | Smooth, real tea/lemonade | Bubbly, fruity | Often very sweet, artificial | Sweet, complex |
As the table illustrates, Surfside's key differentiators are its use of a premium vodka base, its non-carbonated nature, and its low sugar content compared to other hard iced teas and traditional pre-mixed cocktails. While hard seltzers share a similar low-calorie and low-sugar profile, their carbonation is a major distinction.
Ingredients and Quality
Surfside's creators set out to fill a market gap by creating a cocktail that tastes like actual iced tea or lemonade, not just a flavored sparkling water. The foundation of the drink is Stateside Vodka, a premium spirit, which is then blended with real brewed tea or real fruit juice. The ingredient list is straightforward: vodka, real tea, natural flavors, and artificial sweetener. This commitment to using real ingredients, rather than relying on malt liquor or excessive sugar, contributes to a cleaner, more authentic flavor profile that resonates with consumers. The use of artificial sweetener helps keep the sugar and calorie counts low while maintaining a pleasant taste. The iced tea varieties also contain a modest amount of natural caffeine from the brewed tea, providing a slight energy lift that many appreciate during day drinking or casual social events.
Conclusion: A Lighter, Flavorful Alternative
So, are surfsides low in calories? Absolutely. At just 100 calories per 12oz can, they are positioned as a smart choice for calorie-conscious individuals. Their low sugar content, non-carbonated profile, and use of real brewed tea or juice with a premium vodka base distinguish them from competitors. For those seeking a ready-to-drink cocktail that delivers on flavor without the guilt of excessive sugar and calories, Surfside presents a compelling option. For more details on the brand's rapid growth and background, see this article from VinePair.
Mindful drinking: Choosing a beverage like Surfside allows consumers to enjoy an alcoholic drink while being more aware of their caloric intake, a trend that is increasingly important for wellness-focused consumers.
Ingredient quality: The use of premium Stateside Vodka and real brewed tea/fruit juice sets Surfside apart from malt-based alternatives that can taste more artificial.
Avoiding the bloat: For those who dislike the gassy feeling that comes with carbonated beverages, Surfside's flat cocktail style is a welcome relief.
Overall, Surfside successfully combines taste, quality ingredients, and a low-calorie profile into a convenient canned format. This combination is why it has become a fast-growing favorite in the ready-to-drink cocktail market, offering consumers a guilt-free sip of "sunshine in a can".
