The Ribena Recipe Reformulation
For decades, Ribena was known for its distinctively rich, syrupy blackcurrant taste. This was largely due to its high sugar content. However, in response to evolving health trends and the UK's soft drinks industry levy, Ribena's manufacturer, Suntory, made a pivotal decision to reformulate its products. The primary goal was to reduce the overall sugar and calorie count, which meant re-engineering the classic recipe.
The Impact of the Sugar Tax
The UK sugar tax, introduced in 2018, imposed a levy on drinks with high sugar content, prompting companies to either absorb the cost or reformulate their products. Ribena chose the latter path to keep its prices competitive and appeal to health-conscious consumers. For the standard Ribena concentrate, some sugar was replaced, while the 'No Added Sugar' range, which had been in production for some time, saw its formulation remain consistent in its use of non-sugar sweeteners. As a result, both the standard and 'light' versions now rely on sweeteners to some degree.
What's in 'No Added Sugar' Ribena?
When you see 'No Added Sugar' on a Ribena bottle, it can be a misleading label for those who believe it contains no sweeteners at all. A closer look at the ingredients reveals a different story.
Common Sweeteners in Ribena (UK)
- Acesulfame K: A calorie-free artificial sweetener, often used in combination with other sweeteners to create a more sugar-like taste.
- Aspartame: Another widely used artificial sweetener. It's a source of phenylalanine and must be declared on the label for those with phenylketonuria.
- Sucralose: A non-caloric artificial sweetener. It is also found in some Ribena variants, particularly juice drinks.
These artificial sweeteners are a staple in the UK's 'No Added Sugar' range. While they provide the sweetness consumers expect, they are not a substitute for those looking for a completely sweetener-free blackcurrant drink.
Are There Any Ribena Products Without Sweeteners?
In certain international markets, it is possible to find Ribena products made without artificial sweeteners. For example, some products in Malaysia and Hong Kong are marketed as having no artificial sweeteners or flavouring. This is often due to different regional regulations and consumer preferences. However, finding these specific versions outside of their local markets can be challenging. Some older versions of the standard (sugar-based) Ribena concentrate from certain regions may also lack artificial sweeteners. It is always crucial to check the ingredient list on the packaging, especially when purchasing from international stores or online.
Ribena vs. Other Blackcurrant Options
To help you decide which blackcurrant drink is right for you, here is a comparison between the current UK 'Original' and 'No Added Sugar' Ribena variants.
| Feature | Original Ribena (UK) | No Added Sugar Ribena (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetening Agent | Combination of sugar and sweeteners | Artificial Sweeteners (Aspartame, Acesulfame K, Sucralose) |
| Sugar Content | Low sugar content (typically under 4.5g per 100ml) | Very low, with only naturally occurring sugars |
| Calories | Low-calorie | Very low-calorie |
| Taste Profile | Different from the pre-2018 classic, but still recognisably Ribena | Slightly less sweet and thinner than the original, with an artificial taste note for some |
| Availability | Widely available in the UK | Widely available in the UK |
Alternatives to Sweetened Blackcurrant Drinks
If the inclusion of sweeteners is a deal-breaker, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Pure blackcurrant juice: Look for 100% pure fruit juice with no additives. This will contain natural fruit sugars but no added sweeteners. Brands may vary by region.
- Cordial alternatives: Some smaller, artisan cordial brands use only sugar or grape juice concentrate for sweetness, though they may be more expensive. Check brands like Belvoir.
- DIY blackcurrant squash: Make your own by cooking blackcurrants with water and a desired amount of sugar or other natural sweeteners. This gives you complete control over the ingredients.
- International Imports: Search for products specifically from countries known to still produce the sugar-only version of Ribena, such as Malaysia.
The Verdict
In summary, the answer to "Can you get Ribena without sweeteners?" depends on which Ribena you are referring to. In the UK, the answer is generally no, as even the original recipe now contains some form of sweetener following the sugar tax reformulation. The 'No Added Sugar' versions are very reliant on artificial sweeteners to achieve their flavour profile. However, some international versions, particularly from specific Asian markets, are advertised as being free of artificial sweeteners. For those committed to avoiding all sweeteners, seeking out pure fruit juices, making your own squash, or exploring niche alternatives is the best approach. It is always best to read the label carefully to confirm the exact ingredients in the product you are purchasing.
For more information on the official Ribena ingredients and company policy, you can visit their official FAQ page here: https://ribena.co.uk/support/faqs/.
Conclusion
While the Ribena brand remains a favourite, the recipe's evolution means that a completely sweetener-free product is no longer standard in the UK market. The switch from sugar to a combination of sugar and artificial sweeteners in the classic recipe, and the continued use of sweeteners in the 'no added sugar' line, reflects a broader industry shift towards low-calorie products. Consumers must be diligent in checking ingredients if they want to avoid sweeteners entirely, looking to specific international versions or alternative brands instead.
