The Great Irn Bru Sugar Debate: What Changed in 2018?
For decades, Irn Bru was known for its distinctly sweet flavor, a product of its original, sugar-heavy recipe. However, the introduction of the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (SDIL) in the UK forced many manufacturers, including A.G. Barr, to reformulate their products. This led to a monumental change for Scotland's 'other national drink,' impacting its taste and, most importantly, its sugar content.
The Old Recipe vs. The New Formula
Prior to 2018, a 330ml can of Irn Bru contained around 34 grams of sugar, comparable to other full-sugar sodas. This amounted to approximately 8.5 teaspoons of sugar per can. In response to the sugar tax, A.G. Barr reformulated its recipe, drastically reducing the sugar content to below the taxable threshold. The new recipe now uses a blend of sugar and low-calorie sweeteners, including aspartame and acesulfame K, to maintain its signature flavour.
The Public's Reaction
The announcement of the recipe change sparked a significant public outcry, with loyal fans launching protests and even stockpiling cases of the original formula. The debate over the flavor difference between the old and new recipes continues to this day among Scottish communities. While some argue the new taste is a reasonable compromise for reduced sugar, others maintain that the iconic flavor has been lost forever. The controversy highlights the deep cultural significance of Irn Bru and the strong emotional connection consumers have to the product.
Nutritional Comparison: Regular vs. Sugar-Free Irn Bru
For those who prefer to avoid sugar entirely, A.G. Barr offers both a 'Sugar Free' and an 'Xtra' version of Irn Bru. These variants provide the same unmistakable flavor using artificial sweeteners instead of sugar. The nutritional differences are stark, as shown in the comparison table below.
| Nutritional Value (per 100ml) | Regular Irn Bru (Post-2018) | Irn Bru Sugar Free | Irn Bru Xtra | Irn Bru 1901 (Full Sugar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | ~80 kJ (19 kcal) | 3 kJ (0.7 kcal) | ~3.1 kJ (0.7 kcal) | 182 kJ (43 kcal) |
| Carbohydrates | 4.5g | 0g | Trace | 11g |
| of which sugars | 4.5g | 0g | 0g | 11g |
| Salt | <0.01g | <0.01g | <0.01g | <0.01g |
The Resurgence of the Original Taste: Irn Bru 1901
In a move that delighted traditionalists, A.G. Barr released 'Irn Bru 1901,' a limited-edition variant based on the original 1901 recipe, complete with its high sugar content. This full-sugar version serves as a nostalgic trip for long-time drinkers who missed the original sweetness, providing an alternative for those prioritizing taste over lower sugar levels. The product contains a higher sugar content per 100ml than even the pre-2018 formula, reflecting its heritage.
The Verdict: Navigating Your Irn Bru Options
Ultimately, the choice of which Irn Bru to drink depends on individual taste preferences and dietary considerations. Health-conscious consumers have excellent, low-calorie options in the Sugar Free and Xtra variants. Those seeking the authentic, traditional flavor can find it in the 1901 variant, while the regular version offers a compromise with reduced sugar and a blend of sweeteners.
Conclusion
The question of whether a can of Irn Bru contains sugar is not a simple yes or no. The answer has evolved significantly over time due to market shifts and government regulations. A regular can now contains a much lower sugar content than it did before 2018, blended with sweeteners. However, the product's longevity and cultural significance have prompted the reintroduction of a full-sugar, original recipe variant for those who prefer the traditional, sweeter taste. As a result, consumers can choose between multiple versions, each catering to different preferences and dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sugar content in a current regular can of Irn Bru?
A regular 330ml can of Irn Bru (post-2018 recipe) contains approximately 15g of sugar, which is 4.5g per 100ml.
Is Irn Bru sugar-free completely without sugar?
Yes, Irn Bru Sugar Free and Irn Bru Xtra contain 0g of sugar per 100ml. They use artificial sweeteners like aspartame instead.
Why was the Irn Bru recipe changed?
The recipe was changed in 2018 to reduce the sugar content by more than 50% and avoid the UK's soft drinks industry levy.
How does Irn Bru 1901 differ from regular Irn Bru?
Irn Bru 1901 is a special edition that uses the original, high-sugar recipe from 1901, providing a more intense sweetness than the current regular version.
Does Irn Bru use artificial sweeteners?
Yes, the current regular and all sugar-free variants of Irn Bru use artificial sweeteners, including aspartame and acesulfame K.
How much sugar was in the original Irn Bru recipe before 2018?
Before the recipe change, a 330ml can of regular Irn Bru contained approximately 34g of sugar.
Is Irn Bru still made from girders?
The slogan "Made in Scotland from Girders" is a long-standing, humorous advertising campaign and not literally true. While the recipe does contain ammonium ferric citrate, a form of iron, it is not actually brewed from girders.
