Yes, Simply Spiked Lemonade Contains Sugar
Contrary to assumptions that might associate a modern spiked beverage with low-sugar options, Simply Spiked Lemonade does, in fact, have sugar in it. The manufacturer lists cane sugar prominently in the ingredients list for all its main flavors, including Signature, Strawberry, Watermelon, and Blueberry. In a standard 12-ounce (360 mL) can of the Signature Hard Lemonade, there are typically 18 grams of total sugars, with 17 grams listed as added sugar.
The Role of Cane Sugar and Stevia
While cane sugar is the primary sweetener providing the familiar sugary lemonade taste, it is not the only source. An examination of the ingredients also reveals the inclusion of stevia extract. Stevia is a natural, non-caloric sweetener often used to enhance sweetness without adding extra calories, but its presence alongside cane sugar highlights the company's efforts to create a distinctively sweet flavor profile. The combination of both caloric (cane sugar) and non-caloric (stevia) sweeteners is a strategy to deliver a full-bodied sweetness that many consumers expect from a classic lemonade flavor. This approach, however, results in a final product that is far from a low-sugar alternative in the spiked beverage category.
Comparing Simply Spiked to Other Hard Lemonades
When considering Simply Spiked Lemonade's nutritional profile, it is helpful to compare it to both traditional and other modern spiked beverages. Traditional, non-alcoholic lemonade is often loaded with sugar, so Simply Spiked's sugar content may not seem as high in comparison. However, when stacked against a hard seltzer, which often boasts zero or very low sugar, the difference is stark. This distinction is critical for consumers monitoring their sugar intake or following a specific diet. The marketing of Simply Spiked as a 'juicy spiked lemonade bursting with sweet and tart flavor' is a key indicator of its higher sugar content, setting it apart from the more neutral-flavored and drier hard seltzers.
What the Ingredients Tell Us
The ingredients list provides the most direct confirmation of sugar. For the Simply Spiked Signature Lemonade, the ingredients are listed in order of predominance by weight. The presence of "Cane Sugar" high on the list, following water and alcohol, means it is one of the most abundant components. This is a clear signal that sugar is a significant part of the formulation, not just a minor additive.
Common Ingredients in Simply Spiked Lemonade:
- Carbonated Water
- Alcohol
- Cane Sugar
- Lemon Juice from Concentrate
- Citric Acid
- Sodium Citrate
- Natural Flavors
- Stevia Extract
The addition of real fruit juice from concentrate further contributes to the overall carbohydrate and sugar count. While beneficial for flavor, it does not mitigate the high added sugar content. The presence of Stevia is an attempt to reduce the overall calories while maintaining sweetness, but it doesn't change the fact that a significant amount of sugar is still present.
Comparison: Simply Spiked vs. Hard Seltzer
| Feature | Simply Spiked Lemonade (Signature) | Typical Hard Seltzer (e.g., White Claw) |
|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | 12 oz (360 mL) | 12 oz (360 mL) |
| Total Sugar | 18g | 1-2g (or 0g in some brands) |
| Added Sugar | 17g | 0-1g |
| Sweeteners | Cane Sugar, Stevia Extract | Usually just a small amount of sugar |
| Sweetness Level | Very sweet, like traditional lemonade | Mildly sweet or dry |
| Flavor Profile | Fruity, sweet and tart | Subtle fruit flavor, often watery |
| Alcohol Base | Fermented sugar cane (Malt beverage) | Fermented sugar or fruit |
| Carbonation | Lightly carbonated | Highly carbonated |
Conclusion: Does Simply Spiked Lemonade Have Sugar in It?
In conclusion, the answer is a definitive yes: Simply Spiked Lemonade has sugar in it, and in significant quantities. With 18 grams of total sugar per 12-ounce can, mostly from added cane sugar, it is not a low-sugar alternative in the spiked beverage market. While it also uses stevia to manage calories, the primary sweetness comes from cane sugar, giving it a juicy, sweet flavor profile akin to traditional lemonade. Consumers should be aware of this sugar content, especially if they are monitoring their sugar intake for dietary or health reasons. For a lower-sugar alcoholic option, a hard seltzer is a more suitable choice.
Read more on the nutritional differences between hard seltzers and other alcoholic drinks by visiting the CDC website on alcohol and public health.
