The Sweetening Agents in Más+
To address the central question, Más+ does not contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, or acesulfame potassium. Instead, the brand relies on a combination of two sweetening agents to achieve its taste profile: Steviol Glycosides from the stevia plant and a minimal amount of cane sugar. This strategic choice allows the beverage to deliver a sweet taste with a very low-calorie count.
A Closer Look at Steviol Glycosides (Stevia)
Steviol Glycosides are compounds extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, which are widely recognized as natural, zero-calorie sweeteners. Stevia is significantly sweeter than table sugar and has gained popularity as a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners. Its use in Más+ allows the drink to remain low in calories and sugar while providing a satisfyingly sweet flavor. The brand uses Stevia as a core component of its "Positive Hydration" formula, appealing to consumers looking for clean-label products.
The Role of Cane Sugar
While Stevia provides the bulk of the sweetness without calories, Más+ also includes a small amount of cane sugar. Each 16.9oz bottle contains just 1 gram of cane sugar, contributing only 4 of the total 10 calories. This minimal addition likely helps to balance the flavor profile, masking any potential aftertaste that can sometimes be associated with high concentrations of Stevia. The combination of natural stevia and a touch of cane sugar creates a smooth, well-rounded taste that has been a key factor in the drink's positive reception.
MAS+ vs. Other Hydration Drinks
Understanding the choice of sweeteners in Más+ is best done by comparing it to other popular beverages on the market. Most conventional sports drinks contain significant amounts of added sugar, while many "diet" or "zero-sugar" alternatives use a variety of artificial sweeteners.
| Feature | Más+ by Messi | Conventional Sports Drinks (e.g., Gatorade) | Diet/Zero Sugar Drinks (e.g., Prime) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Stevia and Cane Sugar | High-Fructose Corn Syrup, Sugar | Aspartame, Sucralose, Acesulfame K |
| Artificial Sweeteners | No | No (but high sugar content) | Yes |
| Calories (16.9oz) | 10 calories | ~100+ calories | Typically 5-20 calories |
| Colors | Natural, from fruits/vegetables | Artificial colors | Artificial colors |
| Electrolytes | Yes (Na, K, Mg, Ca) | Yes (Na, K) | Yes (Na, K, Mg, Ca) |
The Purpose and Health Focus of Más+
Más+ was created with a clear philosophy: to provide a better hydration option with "more of the good and none of the bad". The exclusion of artificial sweeteners and colors, along with the very low sugar content, is a major part of this health-conscious positioning. For individuals looking to reduce their sugar intake for weight management or overall health, Más+ offers a flavorful alternative without the typical trade-off of artificial additives. The inclusion of electrolytes, vitamins, and antioxidants further solidifies its role as a functional beverage designed for optimal hydration.
Natural vs. Artificial Sweeteners
While the search results confirm Más+ contains no artificial sweeteners, it's important to understand the nuance. Stevia, while natural, is a highly potent, non-nutritive sweetener. This differentiates it from processed sugar and from chemically synthesized artificial alternatives like aspartame. The natural source and minimal processing of Stevia are key selling points for Más+, contrasting with the synthetic nature of many artificial options. Consumers often prefer this approach, perceiving it as healthier and more wholesome. The small amount of cane sugar works in conjunction with Stevia to create a balanced, palatable drink. For further information on the broader context of different sweetener types, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides extensive resources on both artificial sweeteners and natural alternatives like stevia.
Conclusion
In summary, Más+ by Messi is free of artificial sweeteners, as confirmed by its official ingredients list and marketing. The sweet taste is instead achieved by using Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) and a small amount of cane sugar. This commitment to natural flavoring and a low-calorie profile sets Más+ apart in the crowded hydration drink market, aligning with consumer demand for healthier, transparently labeled products. By focusing on positive hydration with natural ingredients, Más+ offers an appealing option for those seeking a tasty, low-sugar beverage.
Final Takeaway
- No Artificial Sweeteners: Más+ is explicitly formulated without artificial sweeteners or colors, according to the official product information.
- Stevia Sweetener: The primary sweetness comes from Steviol Glycosides, an extract from the stevia plant.
- Minimal Cane Sugar: Each 16.9oz bottle contains just 1 gram of cane sugar, ensuring a very low overall sugar and calorie count.
- Low Calorie Hydration: With only 10 calories per bottle, it serves as a low-calorie alternative to many high-sugar sports and soft drinks.
- Natural Ingredients: The brand uses natural flavors and colors derived from fruits and vegetables, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
