Complete Nutritional Breakdown of the Small Blackberry Quencher
For those watching their dietary intake, understanding the full nutritional profile of a drink is crucial. The small Blackberry Yuzu Sparkling Quencher from Tim Hortons is a popular choice, but its healthiness depends on your overall diet and health goals. Below is a detailed look at what's in your cup.
Calories and Macronutrients
A single small Blackberry Yuzu Sparkling Quencher contains approximately 80 calories. The majority of these calories come from carbohydrates, specifically sugars, with minimal amounts of fat and protein. The primary ingredients include filtered water, ice, blackberry yuzu flavoured syrup, and citric acid.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 19g. These carbohydrates are primarily derived from the sugar in the flavoured syrup. For individuals managing blood sugar levels, this is an important factor to consider.
- Sugar: A small quencher contains around 19g of sugar. This is equivalent to about 4.75 teaspoons of sugar, which contributes significantly to the drink's total calories.
- Protein and Fat: The drink contains trace amounts of protein and fat, often listed as 0g or less than 0.1g, making it a beverage almost entirely composed of water and sugar.
Ingredients and Flavor
The vibrant, fruity flavour of the Blackberry Yuzu Quencher is a key part of its appeal. The drink is made with a combination of fruit flavours, sparkling water, and other ingredients to enhance its taste. The inclusion of yuzu, a Japanese citrus fruit, adds a unique and tangy twist to the standard blackberry flavour profile. The base ingredients are generally simple, with the main components being carbonated water and the flavoured syrup.
Comparing Different Quencher Sizes
To help you make an informed decision, here is a comparison of the Blackberry Yuzu Quencher across different sizes available at Tim Hortons. The nutritional information changes significantly with size, which is a key consideration for calorie-conscious consumers.
| Quencher Size | Calories (kcal) | Total Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 80 | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 |
| Medium | 110 | 28 | 28 | 0 | 0 |
| Large | 150 | 37 | 36 | 0 | 0 |
This table clearly illustrates how the calorie and sugar content increase with each size. The large version, for instance, contains nearly double the sugar of the small, a crucial detail for anyone monitoring their intake. It is also important to remember that these are approximate values and can vary slightly based on the specific preparation.
Health Implications and Considerations
While the small Blackberry Yuzu Quencher is not a high-calorie drink, its sugar content is a primary concern for many health-conscious individuals. High sugar intake can contribute to various health issues, including weight gain and dental problems. However, when consumed in moderation as an occasional treat, it can fit into a balanced diet. Individuals with diabetes or those following a low-sugar diet should be particularly mindful of this beverage's sugar load.
Alternative Drink Choices
For those seeking lower-calorie or lower-sugar alternatives at Tim Hortons, several options are available. The simplest choices would be black coffee, plain hot tea, or water. If you prefer a flavoured drink, consider:
- Unsweetened Iced Tea: A refreshing option with minimal calories.
- Cold Brew with a splash of cream: Depending on the amount of cream added, this can be a much lower-sugar option.
- Real Fruit Quenchers with modifications: If available, ask for less syrup to reduce the sugar content.
How Tim Hortons Promotes Quenchers
Tim Hortons introduced the Quenchers line to cater to customers seeking lighter, fruity alternatives to their more indulgent beverages like Iced Capps. The marketing for these drinks often highlights their 'refreshing' and 'lightly bubbly' nature, appealing to consumers looking for a summery, low-calorie treat. However, as the nutritional data shows, the sugar content remains a notable aspect, which is a common characteristic of flavoured soft drinks and fruit-flavoured beverages. This positions the Quenchers as a middle-ground option—more caloric than water, but less than a full-fat, sugar-laden milkshake.
Conclusion
In summary, a small Blackberry Quencher from Tim Hortons contains 80 calories, with nearly all of those calories coming from its 19 grams of sugar. While a relatively low-calorie choice compared to many other fast-food beverages, its high sugar content makes it a drink to be enjoyed in moderation. Understanding the full nutritional profile allows consumers to make informed choices that align with their personal health and dietary goals. For those seeking even healthier options, exploring the unsweetened tea or coffee selections is recommended. For more information on Tim Hortons' official nutritional offerings, consider visiting their Nutrition and Allergens page.
