Does Regular Starry Have Sugar? A Clear Yes
The standard, full-sugar version of Starry is primarily sweetened with high fructose corn syrup, a key ingredient listed directly on the product's label. This makes it a high-sugar beverage, similar to other non-diet lemon-lime sodas on the market. For instance, a 12-ounce can contains 39 grams of sugar, all of which are added sugars. For context, this amount exceeds the daily recommended limit for added sugars by several health organizations.
The high sugar content contributes to the beverage's caloric load, with a 12-ounce serving having 150 calories. A larger 20-ounce bottle contains even more, with 65 grams of total sugars and 240 calories. This places the regular version of Starry firmly in the category of sugary drinks, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The Zero Sugar Option: A Different Story
For consumers looking to avoid sugar and calories, PepsiCo offers Starry Zero Sugar. This alternative is sweetened with a combination of artificial sweeteners, including aspartame and acesulfame potassium, instead of high fructose corn syrup. As its name implies, this version contains zero grams of sugar and zero calories. It is specifically designed to provide the same lemon-lime flavor profile as the original, but without the negative health implications associated with high sugar intake.
Ingredients and Sweeteners Compared
The difference between the two versions of Starry can be clearly seen by looking at their ingredient lists and sweetener profiles. The choice between them comes down to whether you prefer real sugar and its associated calories or artificial sweeteners with no calories.
Regular Starry Ingredients
- Carbonated Water
- High Fructose Corn Syrup
- Citric Acid
- Natural Flavor
- Potassium Benzoate (preserves freshness)
- Potassium Citrate
- Calcium Disodium EDTA (to protect flavor)
Starry Zero Sugar Ingredients
- Carbonated Water
- Citric Acid
- Natural Flavor
- Potassium Citrate
- Potassium Benzoate (preserves freshness)
- Aspartame
- Acesulfame Potassium
- Sucralose
- Ascorbic Acid (to protect flavor)
- Calcium Disodium EDTA (to protect flavor)
Nutritional Comparison: Regular vs. Zero Sugar
To highlight the stark contrast in sugar content, here is a comparison table based on a standard 12-ounce can serving:
| Nutritional Aspect | Regular Starry (12 oz) | Starry Zero Sugar (12 oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 0 |
| Total Sugars | 39g | 0g |
| Added Sugars | 39g | 0g |
| Sodium | 35mg | 35mg |
| Caffeine | 0mg | 0mg |
| Sweetener | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose |
Understanding High Fructose Corn Syrup
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a common sweetener used in many soft drinks, including regular Starry. It is a corn-based syrup that has been processed to convert some of its glucose into fructose, resulting in a product that is sweeter than regular corn syrup. The use of HFCS, rather than cane sugar (which was used in its predecessor, Sierra Mist), is a defining characteristic of regular Starry. This sweetener is a source of controversy, with some research linking high consumption to various health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
The Health Context of Starry
When considering your beverage choices, it's important to look at the overall health context. The regular version of Starry is a sugar-sweetened beverage, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting the consumption of such drinks. For those managing their weight or blood sugar levels, Starry Zero Sugar is a clearly better option. However, it's worth noting that artificially sweetened drinks have also been a subject of debate. Some studies suggest a link between artificial sweeteners and altered gut microbiomes, though the health effects are not as clearly defined as with high sugar consumption. Ultimately, the healthiest option remains water, but for those seeking a soda fix, the Zero Sugar variety provides a calorie-free alternative.
Conclusion: A Clear Distinction in Sweetness
In short, the question "Does Starry have sugar in it?" requires a clarifying answer: yes, the regular version does, and in significant quantity, while the Starry Zero Sugar variety has none. The presence of high fructose corn syrup makes regular Starry a high-sugar, high-calorie soda, while the Zero Sugar version relies on artificial sweeteners. Consumers can make an informed choice based on their dietary needs and preferences, knowing that both options are clearly labeled and contain distinct ingredients and nutritional profiles. The existence of both versions allows PepsiCo to cater to a broader audience, from those who prefer the traditional taste and ingredients of a sugary soda to those seeking a healthier, no-calorie alternative.
