Decoding the nowadays cocktail's calorie count
The term "Nowadays cocktail" refers to a mixed drink made with products from the brand Nowadays, which produces a line of hemp-derived, THC-infused, non-alcoholic spirits and canned beverages. Unlike traditional cocktails that get their calories primarily from alcohol and high-sugar mixers, Nowadays drinks are formulated to be low-calorie alternatives. Understanding the ingredients and format is key to knowing the exact calorie count.
Canned cocktails vs. bottled spirits
Nowadays offers two main product formats, each with different nutritional profiles. The ready-to-drink (RTD) canned cocktails are a convenient, low-calorie option, while the bottled spirits, designed for mixing, allow for more customizable creations.
- Canned Cocktails (e.g., 5mg THC varieties): The 12-ounce canned cocktails, such as the Berry or Citrus flavors, contain approximately 20-25 calories each. This is largely due to the combination of carbonated water, natural fruit essences, and a low amount of sugar. The 10mg THC 16oz cans have similar calorie-per-ounce metrics, with about 15 calories per 8 oz serving.
- Bottled Spirits (e.g., 1.5 oz shot): When using the Nowadays bottled spirit to create a custom mix, a standard 1.5-ounce shot of the 2mg or 5mg THC formula contains only about 10 calories. This extremely low base calorie count makes it an excellent foundation for low-calorie mocktails, especially when combined with zero-calorie mixers like soda water.
Comparing nowadays to alcoholic cocktails
To put the low-calorie nature of a Nowadays cocktail into perspective, consider the caloric load of popular alcoholic beverages. Alcohol itself is a significant source of calories, providing 7 calories per gram—almost as much as fat. When combined with sugary juices, syrups, or liqueurs, the calorie count skyrockets.
Here is a comparison demonstrating how Nowadays beverages stack up against typical alcoholic mixed drinks:
| Drink Type | Standard Serving Size | Approximate Calories | Primary Calorie Source | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nowadays Canned Cocktail | 12 oz can | 20-25 | Added Sugars (4g) | Non-alcoholic, THC-infused |
| Nowadays Spirit (1.5 oz shot) | 1.5 oz shot | 10 | Added Sugars (2g) | Used for mixing, zero alcohol |
| Margarita | 4 oz | 170-200 | Tequila, Triple Sec, Sugary Mix | Classic recipe, excludes large or frozen varieties |
| Mojito | 6 oz | 145-170 | Rum, Simple Syrup | Excludes potential variations and larger bar pours |
| Gin & Tonic | 8.5 oz | 150-165 | Gin, Tonic Water (contains sugar) | Standard serving, can be lower with diet tonic |
| Piña Colada | 9 oz | 490 | Rum, Cream of Coconut, Pineapple Juice | Often blended, very high sugar and calorie count |
The table above illustrates the dramatic calorie difference. While a single Nowadays canned drink has a minimal impact on daily intake, a single traditional cocktail can carry as many calories as a small meal. For those watching their weight or mindful of their sugar intake, this distinction is crucial.
The anatomy of calories: THC vs. alcohol
The fundamental difference in calorie composition lies in the base ingredient. Nowadays uses hemp-derived THC extract combined with water, natural flavors, and a small amount of sugar. There are no calories from alcohol because the product is alcohol-free. In contrast, the alcohol in spirits, beer, and wine contains significant caloric energy.
- In Alcoholic Drinks: Calories from alcohol are often considered "empty calories" because they provide energy without significant nutritional value. This, combined with high-sugar mixers, contributes to a high total caloric load that can easily be overlooked.
- In Nowadays Drinks: The minimal calories come from the small amount of added sugar for flavor. Since there is no alcohol, this beverage sidesteps the large number of calories that alcohol contributes in traditional cocktails. This makes Nowadays a compelling option for those seeking a recreational beverage without the caloric baggage of alcohol.
Making mindful drink choices
Choosing a Nowadays cocktail over a traditional alcoholic one can be a simple way to reduce calorie intake without sacrificing the social experience. For a truly mindful choice, consider mixing the Nowadays bottled spirit with zero-calorie mixers like soda water, fresh lime, or muddled fruit for an even lower-calorie creation. This approach provides complete control over sugar and caloric content, offering a truly customizable and health-conscious drinking experience.
Conclusion
For those wondering "how many calories in a nowadays cocktail?", the answer is remarkably low, typically ranging from 10 to 25 calories depending on the product. These THC-infused, non-alcoholic beverages offer a refreshing and flavorful alternative to high-calorie traditional cocktails. By understanding the difference in calorie sources—the absence of alcohol calories and the use of minimal sugar—consumers can make more informed decisions about their beverage choices. For a detailed look at their offerings and ingredients, visit the official Nowadays website. Switching to a Nowadays drink can help maintain health goals while still enjoying a social buzz, proving that a calorie-conscious approach doesn't mean compromising on taste or experience.
