The Core Components of A&W Root Beer
At its most basic level, A&W root beer consists of a few key ingredients that create its distinct flavor and fizz. A look at the label reveals that it is primarily made up of carbonated water, a sweetener, colorings, and flavorings. Unlike the traditional root beers of the past, which were brewed with real roots and herbs, modern commercial production relies on synthetic methods to achieve a consistent taste and appearance.
Sweeteners: High Fructose Corn Syrup and Sugar
The primary source of calories and sweetness in regular A&W root beer comes from high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and/or sugar. HFCS, a liquid sweetener made from corn, is a common ingredient in many sodas and processed foods. The high sugar content is the main reason for the drink's empty calories and is a significant factor to consider for anyone monitoring their sugar intake for weight management or overall health. For example, a 12 fl oz can typically contains around 43 grams of sugar, which amounts to over 10 teaspoons.
Flavorings: Natural and Artificial
A&W's classic taste is derived from a proprietary blend of natural and artificial flavors. Historically, root beer was flavored with sassafras root. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned sassafras root in 1960 after studies showed a compound within it, safrole, could cause cancer in rats when administered in high doses. To mimic the traditional flavor profile of sassafras and other spices, modern commercial producers use artificial flavorings. This allows for a standardized taste and avoids the safety concerns associated with the original root extract. Other flavors often found in root beer include vanilla, wintergreen, and caramel.
Color and Preservatives
To achieve its signature dark brown color, A&W uses caramel color. The formula also includes sodium benzoate, a preservative used to inhibit the growth of bacteria and yeast and extend the product's shelf life. While preservatives are generally considered safe in the amounts used, some individuals may have sensitivities. For those seeking beverages with fewer additives, this is another aspect to consider.
The Nutritional Picture
From a nutritional standpoint, A&W root beer offers little beyond simple carbohydrates. It contains no protein, no fat, and no dietary fiber. The primary concern for a nutrition-focused diet is the high added sugar content. Excessive consumption of sugary drinks has been linked to various health issues, including weight gain, an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay. While the Environmental Working Group (EWG) flagged A&W root beer for its high added sugar content and moderate processing, it's important to remember it's an occasional treat, not a dietary staple.
A Comparison of Beverages
To put the nutritional content of A&W root beer into perspective, let's compare it to its diet counterpart and a healthier alternative, plain sparkling water. This helps illustrate the stark differences in calories and sugar intake.
| Feature | A&W Root Beer (12 oz) | A&W Diet Root Beer (12 oz) | Plain Sparkling Water (12 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 calories | 0 calories | 0 calories |
| Total Sugar | ~43g | 0g | 0g |
| Added Sugar | ~43g | 0g | 0g |
| Sweeteners | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium | None |
| Sodium | ~85mg | Variable, often low | Often 0mg |
| Nutrients | None | None | None |
Healthier Alternatives to High-Sugar Sodas
For those who enjoy a bubbly beverage but wish to reduce their sugar intake, several healthier alternatives exist.
- Flavored Sparkling Water: Brands like LaCroix, Bubly, and Spindrift offer a wide range of fruit-flavored sparkling waters with zero calories and no added sugar.
- Prebiotic Sodas: Emerging brands like OLIPOP and Poppi offer low-sugar, gut-healthy prebiotic sodas that mimic classic soda flavors.
- Kombucha: This fizzy, fermented tea is lower in sugar than traditional soda and contains probiotics that are beneficial for gut health.
- Infused Water: Simply add fresh fruits and herbs like lemon, cucumber, or mint to plain or sparkling water for a refreshing, all-natural drink.
The Rise of Artificial Sweeteners
Diet versions of A&W root beer replace high fructose corn syrup with artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and acesulfame potassium. While this removes the calories and sugar, some people are sensitive to artificial sweeteners, which can cause digestive issues. Research into the long-term effects of regular artificial sweetener consumption is ongoing, and many health professionals advise moderation even with diet sodas.
Making a Concluding Choice for Your Diet
Understanding the composition of popular beverages like A&W root beer is key to making mindful dietary decisions. The information on what's in a and w root beer? confirms that while it is a beloved treat, it offers minimal nutritional benefits. It is laden with sugar, which can impact overall health and weight goals, and its flavor is derived from artificial and natural flavorings rather than the traditional, once-used roots. By being aware of these facts, consumers can enjoy A&W root beer as an occasional indulgence and explore the many healthier alternatives that align better with a balanced nutrition diet. For further reading on the history and evolution of root beer, consider exploring this article from Allrecipes about the origins of root beer.
Sources
- American Homebrewers Association. (2023, January 18). Root Beer: The Quintessential American Soda. Retrieved from https://www.oculyze.net/what-flavors-are-in-root-beer/
- Keurig Dr Pepper Product Facts. A&W® Root Beer 12 fl oz. Retrieved from https://www.kdpproductfacts.com/product/a0e3h000003LJuJAAW/aw-root-beer-12-fl-oz-us
- EWG. A&W Root Beer. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/foodscores/products/078000052169-AwRootBeer/
- Listonic. (2024, September 6). Root Beer — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips. Retrieved from https://listonic.com/p/nutrition/root-beer
- Allrecipes. (2024, March 12). What Is Root Beer—And Why Is It Called Root Beer?. Retrieved from https://www.allrecipes.com/what-is-root-beer-8608095
- Allrecipes. (2025, July 7). 30 Healthy Alternatives to Soda for a Better Bubbly Beverage. Retrieved from https://www.allrecipes.com/article/healthy-soda-alternatives/
