What Exactly is 'Simply Lemonade Alcohol'?
When searching for "Simply Lemonade alcohol," you are likely referring to the popular product line called Simply Spiked Lemonade. It's a brand of flavored malt beverages crafted by the juice experts at Simply®, which contain 5% real fruit juice and an alcoholic kick. Unlike regular Simply Lemonade, which is non-alcoholic, the Simply Spiked version is intended for adult consumption and therefore contains calories from both its alcohol and sugar content.
Calorie Breakdown: Simply Spiked Signature Lemonade (5% ABV)
For the standard, 5% alcohol by volume (ABV) Simply Spiked offerings, the calorie count is consistent across the flavor range. A standard 12 oz can of Simply Spiked Signature Lemonade contains 170 calories. The calorie composition includes:
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Total Sugars: 18g (17g of which are added sugars)
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
Flavors in the 5% ABV Lineup
The variety pack of Simply Spiked includes several distinct flavors, and all maintain the same nutritional profile.
- Signature Lemonade
- Strawberry Lemonade
- Blueberry Lemonade
- Watermelon Lemonade
- Peach flavors (Signature, Mango, Strawberry, Kiwi)
Calorie Breakdown: Simply Spiked Bold Lemonade (8% ABV)
For those seeking a higher alcohol content, Simply Spiked also offers a 'Bold' version. This variant contains a higher 8% ABV, which directly translates to a higher calorie count. A 12 oz serving of Simply Spiked Bold Signature Lemonade has 240 calories. The nutritional information for the Bold version is also higher in sugar and carbs:
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Total Sugars: 19g (18g of which are added sugars)
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
Why the Calorie Increase?
The higher alcohol content in the Bold version is the primary driver for the calorie increase. Alcohol, or ethanol, provides 7 calories per gram, which is nearly double the calorie density of carbohydrates (4 calories per gram). This, combined with the slightly higher sugar content, accounts for the significant jump from 170 to 240 calories per serving.
Simply Spiked vs. Regular Simply Lemonade: A Calorie Comparison
To highlight the difference that alcohol and added sugars make, here is a direct comparison between the alcoholic and non-alcoholic Simply products.
| Feature | Simply Spiked Signature (5% ABV) | Simply Spiked Bold (8% ABV) | Regular Simply Lemonade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | 12 fl oz can | 12 fl oz serving | 8 fl oz serving |
| Calories | 170 | 240 | 120 |
| ABV | 5% | 8% | 0% |
| Total Carbs | 19g | 20g | 30g |
| Total Sugars | 18g | 19g | 29g |
Factors Influencing Calorie Content
The calorie content in any hard seltzer or flavored malt beverage is primarily determined by its alcohol and sugar content.
The Role of Alcohol
As noted, alcohol is a calorie-dense compound. The higher the ABV (alcohol by volume), the more calories a drink will contain, assuming all other ingredients are constant. The Simply Spiked Bold product is a clear example of this, where the increase from 5% to 8% ABV results in a higher calorie count.
The Impact of Sugar
Simply Spiked Lemonade is known for its bold, sweet flavor profile, which comes from both real fruit juice and added cane sugar. A significant portion of the calories comes from this sugar content. For individuals monitoring their sugar intake, this is an important factor to consider. The use of natural flavors and Stevia extract is also noted in some varieties, which can affect the final nutritional profile.
How to Account for Simply Spiked in Your Diet
For those who enjoy Simply Spiked but are mindful of their caloric intake, moderation is key. Here are a few tips to help you manage your consumption:
- Be Mindful of Serving Size: A 12 oz can is one serving. Be careful not to underestimate your intake when consuming from larger cans or multiple cans.
- Hydrate Between Drinks: Alternating between an alcoholic beverage and water can help slow your consumption and keep you hydrated.
- Consider Alternatives: If you are very calorie-conscious, consider lower-calorie alternatives. While Simply Spiked offers a richer flavor, many light beers and hard seltzers have significantly lower calorie counts.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Simply Spiked Lemonade provides a flavorful and refreshing alcoholic option, but it comes with a notable calorie count, especially when compared to its non-alcoholic counterpart. Understanding that a 12 oz can of the standard 5% ABV version has 170 calories and the 8% ABV 'Bold' version contains 240 calories is crucial for anyone monitoring their intake. The calories come primarily from alcohol and sugar, making it a beverage to be enjoyed in moderation. By being aware of these nutritional facts, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your dietary preferences and goals.
For more information on their product line, you can visit the official Simply Spiked Website.
