NOCA's Stance on Artificial Ingredients
NOCA Beverages stands out in the crowded market of alcoholic beverages by promoting a product free from artificial ingredients. The company was founded by college friends who wanted a non-carbonated, 'better-for-you' alternative to traditional hard seltzers and sugary drinks that often caused bloating and discomfort. Their brand identity is built around this core principle, with a particular focus on avoiding artificial additives. The name NOCA itself is derived from "NO CArbonation," highlighting their primary product differentiator.
The brand's founders recognized a market need for a smoother, easier-to-drink alcoholic beverage that wouldn't cause the negative side effects associated with carbonation. By removing the bubbles, they also found an opportunity to create a cleaner ingredient list. The use of natural sweeteners and flavors aligns with this mission of providing a more palatable and seemingly healthier option for consumers.
The Natural Sweeteners in NOCA Drinks
Instead of relying on chemical compounds like sucralose or aspartame, NOCA utilizes natural sweetening agents derived from fruits and cane sugar. The specific ingredients vary slightly depending on the product line, but the philosophy remains consistent: keep it natural. For example, their Weekend Water is sweetened with cane sugar and other natural flavors, and their Too Turnt Tea also includes cane sugar in its ingredient list. Some of their products, such as their Livin' Lemonade, use a combination of cane sugar, lemon juice concentrate, and natural flavors to achieve a crisp, lightly sweet finish. The original formula for NOCA was even updated to replace the use of Stevia with all-natural cherry juice to provide its sweetness, further solidifying their dedication to natural ingredients.
This deliberate choice to use natural sweeteners caters to a growing consumer demand for products with clean labels. Many people are becoming more conscious of the additives in their food and drinks, and NOCA's approach directly addresses this trend. By being transparent about their ingredients, the brand builds trust with its customer base.
Sweetening Methods Across Different NOCA Varieties
- Weekend Water: This product is sweetened with cane sugar and natural fruit flavors, and includes electrolytes. The specific juice or concentrate used can vary by flavor, such as cherry juice in some berry versions.
- Too Turnt Tea: Made with cane sugar, real brewed black tea, and natural lemon flavoring, this line offers a twist on hard iced tea without the bloat.
- Livin' Lemonade: These hard lemonades are sweetened using a combination of cane sugar, real lemon juice concentrate, and natural flavors.
- Breezy Tropical Juice: This line is made with real fruit juice concentrates, providing natural sweetness from sources like pineapple, cranberry, and cherry.
The Role of Fermented Cane Sugar
All NOCA products start with a base of alcohol derived from fermented cane sugar. During the fermentation process, yeast consumes the sugar and produces alcohol. While this process starts with sugar, the resulting alcohol base contributes to the overall profile of the drink and is different from adding concentrated sugar or artificial sweeteners afterwards for flavor. NOCA's approach allows the natural fruit flavors and minimal additional sugar to shine through without an overpowering alcoholic taste.
Comparison: NOCA vs. Traditional Hard Seltzers
To understand NOCA's position, it's helpful to compare its sweetener profile with that of traditional hard seltzers. Many mainstream hard seltzers and flavored malt beverages use a mix of fermented cane sugar, natural flavors, and sometimes artificial sweeteners to achieve a consistent taste at a lower caloric cost. NOCA differentiates itself by specifically advertising the absence of any artificial sweeteners, which many competitors cannot claim.
| Feature | NOCA Beverages | Traditional Hard Seltzers | Hard Seltzer with Artificial Sweeteners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners Used | Natural sources: cane sugar, fruit juice, fruit concentrates | Fermented cane sugar and other natural flavorings | Fermented cane sugar, natural flavors, PLUS artificial sweeteners (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium) |
| Carbonation | None. A key feature. | High level of carbonation. | Varies by brand. |
| Calorie Count (approx.) | Generally around 95-100 calories per 12 oz can for core products. | Varies, but often similar to NOCA in low-sugar options. | Can be lower depending on the type and amount of artificial sweetener. |
| Taste Profile | Described as smooth, easy to drink, and without a harsh alcohol taste. | Often described as crisp and bubbly. | Can have a noticeable artificial aftertaste for some consumers. |
Consumer Appeal and Product Transparency
NOCA's commitment to using no artificial sweeteners or flavors is a significant part of its brand appeal. Consumers seeking more natural or 'cleaner' options find this an attractive feature. The emphasis on being gluten-free and using simple ingredients also adds to its health-conscious marketing. By transparently listing cane sugar, fruit juice concentrates, and natural flavors, the company provides consumers with a clear understanding of what they are drinking. The company has successfully built a following by focusing on this market segment, particularly those who experience digestive issues from carbonated drinks. For many, the choice to avoid artificial sweeteners is driven by a desire for a more authentic flavor profile and a preference for fewer processed ingredients overall.
Conclusion: NOCA's Natural Sweetener Promise
Based on brand statements, ingredients lists, and consumer feedback, NOCA drinks do not contain artificial sweeteners. Instead, the company consistently uses natural sources like cane sugar, fruit juices, and fruit concentrates to achieve a balanced sweetness. This aligns with NOCA's overall branding as a 'better-for-you,' non-carbonated alternative in the alcoholic beverage space. For those looking to avoid synthetic additives while enjoying a flavored alcoholic beverage, NOCA presents a transparent and naturally sweetened option.
