Understanding the Term 'Pure'
The seemingly simple question, "how many calories does pure have?", is difficult to answer directly because the word "pure" refers to a wide range of different products and brands, rather than a single item. For consumers, this means the calorie count is entirely dependent on the specific product. For example, a supplement from Pure Encapsulations will have a vastly different calorie profile than a protein shake from the Pure Protein brand or a bottle of juice from Pure Foods Company. To make informed dietary choices, it's essential to identify the specific product and check its nutritional information.
The 'Pure' in Supplements: Zero to Low Calories
Many nutritional supplements are marketed with the word "pure" to indicate the lack of unnecessary additives. These products often have a minimal calorie count, and sometimes none at all. Pure Encapsulations, for instance, offers a line of supplements, such as their Magnesium Glycinate, which contain 0 calories. These products are typically single-ingredient formulas designed for specific health purposes and are not intended as a food source. For individuals focused on a calorie-restrictive diet, these types of pure supplements will not impact their daily intake.
Here are some examples of low-to-zero-calorie 'pure' supplements:
- Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3 & K2: 0 calories per capsule.
- Pure Encapsulations Magnesium (Citrate): 0 calories per capsule.
- Pure Label Nutrition Powdered Peanut Butter: Around 50 calories per serving.
'Pure' Protein Shakes and Bars: Higher Calorie Sources
On the other end of the spectrum are products like protein shakes and bars that use the "pure" label to signify their high protein content. Brands like Pure Protein produce shakes and bars designed for post-workout recovery or as a meal replacement. These products contain significant calories from protein, and sometimes from carbohydrates and fats as well. A typical Pure Protein shake can contain around 140 calories, while their Chocolate Deluxe protein bars have 21 grams of protein but are also a substantial snack. Athletes and bodybuilders use these products to meet specific macronutrient goals, but for a person simply trying to limit their daily calorie intake, these items must be accounted for.
'Pure' Juices and Beverages: Calories from Natural Sugar
Just because a juice is advertised as "pure" doesn't mean it's calorie-free. In fact, many pure fruit juices contain a surprising amount of calories, primarily from natural fruit sugars. Brands like Mr. Pure and Pure Foods Company produce a variety of fruit juices and nectars. A single serving (e.g., 8 fl oz) of 100% pure orange juice from a brand like Sun-Rype can contain 120 calories, while other juices like cranberry or pineapple may contain 130 to 190 calories per serving. This is an important distinction to make, especially for those who consume fruit juices regularly, as the calories can add up quickly without the satiety provided by whole fruits due to the lack of fiber.
Example Calories from 'Pure' Juices (per serving):
- Mr. Pure Pineapple Watermelon Juice: 120 calories.
- Mr. Pure Orange Juice: 120-150 calories.
- Mr. Pure Cranberry Juice: 190 calories.
- Sun-Rype Pure Orange Juice (100%): 120 calories.
Pure Alcohol: Concentrated Calories
In a different context, the term "pure" can refer to pure alcohol (ethanol). Unlike water or low-calorie mixers, pure alcohol is a concentrated source of energy, containing approximately seven calories per gram. This is nearly twice the calorie density of carbohydrates and protein (4 calories/gram) and only slightly less than fat (9 calories/gram). When consumed in beverages, these calories can add up quickly. It's also important to remember that alcohol has little to no nutritional value beyond the calories, which is why they are often called "empty calories".
Comparison of Different 'Pure' Products
| Brand | Product Type | Example Product | Approx. Calories/Serving | Primary Calorie Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Encapsulations | Supplements | Magnesium Glycinate | 0 | None |
| Pure Protein | Protein Shake | Chocolate Deluxe Shake | 140 | Protein, minimal carbs |
| PURE Sports Nutrition | Energy Powder | PURE Push Powder | 94 kcal (per 30g) | Carbohydrates (sugars) |
| Mr. Pure | Fruit Juice | Pineapple Watermelon | 120 | Natural fruit sugars |
| Pure Foods Company | Nectar Drink | Reduced Calorie Nectar | Varies by type | Fruit sugars |
| Pure Alcohol | Ethanol | N/A | 7 calories/gram | Alcohol |
How to Find the Calories of Your 'Pure' Product
Because the word "pure" has no standardized nutritional meaning, the most reliable method for determining the calorie count is to check the product's official nutrition label. The FDA provides clear guidelines on how to read and interpret the Nutrition Facts label found on packaged foods and beverages.
Steps to check for yourself:
- Locate the label: Find the Nutrition Facts label on the product packaging.
- Check the serving size: Note the serving size, as the calorie information is per serving. Many people consume more than one serving without realizing it.
- Read the calories: Look for the "Calories" line item, which will tell you the energy content per serving.
- Consider macronutrients: The label will also break down the macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, and protein) which contribute to the total calories. This is especially useful for understanding if the calories are from sugar or protein.
Navigating the 'Pure' Label: Making Informed Choices
The word "pure" can be a powerful marketing tool, suggesting a product is healthier or more natural. While this can be true in some cases (e.g., pure 100% juice), it does not guarantee a low-calorie product. For those tracking their intake, a pure juice can contain as many or more calories than a soda, and a pure protein shake is a calorie-dense meal replacement, not a low-calorie snack. Understanding the context of the word "pure" is the first step toward making a truly informed dietary decision. Always read the label and know what you're consuming.
Conclusion: The Bottom Line on 'Pure' Calories
In summary, there is no single answer to the question "how many calories does pure have?" as it depends on the product. The term can refer to zero-calorie supplements, calorie-rich protein shakes, or sugar-filled juices. To get an accurate calorie count, always check the specific product's nutrition label and understand what you are drinking or eating. For example, while pure alcohol has 7 calories per gram, a pure whey protein shake might contain around 140 calories, and a pure juice can be upwards of 120 calories, with many supplements containing none at all. The takeaway is that a product's name can be misleading, and the nutritional facts label is your most reliable guide.
