Calorie Breakdown by Long Drink Flavor
Understanding the calorie content of The Finnish Long Drink depends on the specific flavor. The company offers several popular options, each with a distinct calorie count due to varying ingredients and alcohol by volume (ABV). For a standard 12 fl oz can, the nutritional information is as follows:
- Traditional Citrus: This classic flavor contains 180 calories per can. Its calorie count comes from a combination of gin, grapefruit soda, and added sugars.
- Cranberry: The Cranberry flavor is slightly lighter, with 160 calories per can. It features natural cranberry flavor blended with the traditional gin and soda base.
- Peach: One can of Long Drink Peach contains approximately 170 calories. Note that the company also offers a zero-sugar version of this flavor.
- Zero Sugar Citrus: A significantly lower-calorie option, the Zero Sugar Citrus has just 99 calories per can. This is achieved by removing added sugars, leaving only the calories from the distilled alcohol.
- Strong Citrus: For those seeking a higher alcohol content, the Strong Citrus version has 230 calories per 12 oz can. Its higher ABV is the primary reason for the increased caloric value.
Factors Influencing Calorie Content
The number of calories in an alcoholic beverage is not just about the alcohol itself. A combination of factors, particularly the alcohol and sugar content, determines the final count.
- Alcohol Content (ABV): Alcohol is calorie-dense, providing 7 calories per gram. As evidenced by the Long Drink Strong, a higher alcohol percentage directly leads to a higher calorie count. The more potent the drink, the more calories it will contain from the alcohol alone.
- Sugar Content: Many pre-mixed canned cocktails, including the traditional Long Drinks, contain a significant amount of sugar for flavor. Sugars and other carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram. The Zero Sugar Long Drink, which uses artificial sweeteners, is a perfect example of how reducing sugar dramatically lowers the overall calorie count.
- Mixers and Flavorings: Ingredients like fruit juices and syrups used in some long drinks also contribute to the total calories. While natural fruit juices may provide some vitamins, they also add sugar, unlike the zero-sugar varieties that rely on artificial sweeteners.
Long Drink vs. Other Canned Cocktails and Seltzers
When considering a beverage, comparing calorie counts can be helpful for those managing their intake. The calorie content of Long Drinks falls within the typical range for canned cocktails but varies considerably based on the type.
Calorie Comparison Table (12 fl oz servings)
| Beverage | ABV (%) | Approx. Calories | Total Sugars (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Drink (Zero Sugar) | 5% | 99 | 0 |
| Popular Hard Seltzer | ~5% | ~100 | 1-2 |
| Light Beer | ~4.2% | ~103 | Low |
| Long Drink (Traditional) | 5.5% | 180 | 18 |
| Regular Beer | ~5% | ~153 | Medium |
| Long Drink (Cranberry) | 5.5% | 160 | 15 |
| Canned Margarita | ~12.5% | 360 | 6.5+ |
| Long Drink (Strong) | 8.5% | 230 | 18 |
Compared to many high-sugar, pre-mixed canned cocktails like margaritas, the Long Drink offers a lower-calorie alternative, especially the Zero Sugar version. However, it generally has a higher calorie count than many popular hard seltzers, particularly the zero-sugar varieties. For those monitoring calories, the Zero Sugar Long Drink competes directly with hard seltzers, providing a cocktail flavor profile for under 100 calories.
A Note on Reading Labels
It is important to remember that nutritional labeling is not always mandatory for alcoholic beverages in the same way it is for food products. While The Long Drink company provides nutritional information, it's always wise to check the packaging, especially when trying new brands or flavors, as formulations can vary. The alcohol content is a key indicator of overall calories, with a higher ABV signaling a more calorific drink.
Conclusion
In summary, the calorie content of a single can of Long Drink varies significantly by flavor, with options ranging from the 99-calorie Zero Sugar version to the 230-calorie Strong version. The primary caloric contributors are the alcohol itself and added sugars. While Long Drinks offer a relatively moderate calorie count compared to many complex mixed cocktails, they can be higher in calories than some low-ABV options like light beer or specific hard seltzers. For those concerned with calorie intake, opting for the zero-sugar option is the most effective strategy. Ultimately, understanding the different varieties allows for an informed choice, especially for those balancing taste with health goals. The Long Drink FAQ page offers additional insights into their product line.
