A&W's Signature Root Beer: A Breakdown of Sugar Content
The iconic A&W Root Beer is a key item on the menu, but its sugar content varies significantly by size. The main source of sugar in the classic version is high fructose corn syrup.
Bottled and Canned Root Beer
- A standard 12 fl oz can of A&W Root Beer contains 43 grams of total sugar. All of this is added sugar, representing 86% of the daily value based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
- For a 20 fl oz bottle, the total sugar jumps to 72 grams, which is 144% of the daily recommended intake for added sugars. This is equivalent to approximately 18 teaspoons of sugar.
- A larger 16.9 fl oz bottle also carries a heavy load, with one reference reporting 64 grams of sugar.
The Zero Sugar Option
For those watching their sugar intake, A&W offers a Zero Sugar Root Beer. As the name implies, this version contains 0 grams of sugar and zero calories per serving, relying on artificial sweeteners for its flavor. Customer reviews on the taste can be mixed, with some noting a slight aftertaste, while others praise its close resemblance to the original.
Beyond the Soda: Sugar in A&W Floats and Treats
A&W's menu extends beyond soda to include indulgent treats that carry high sugar counts, particularly when combined with the famously creamy soft serve.
Root Beer Floats
Combining the high-sugar root beer with vanilla soft serve significantly increases the total sugar. For example, a small (16 fl oz) Root Beer Float can contain around 330 calories, with a medium (20 fl oz) containing 350 calories, and a large (32 fl oz) reaching 640 calories. The sugar content within these products is very high, but specific grams are not always publicly listed. The Zero Sugar Root Beer Float provides a significantly lower-sugar alternative, though the soft serve still contributes sugar.
Milkshakes
Milkshakes are among the most sugary items on the A&W menu. According to nutrition data for A&W Canada, regular-sized milkshakes can contain very high amounts of sugar, with some exceeding 65 grams. This places them firmly in the category of occasional treats rather than regular beverages.
Other Items
Products like A&W Cream Soda also contain high sugar levels, with a 12 fl oz serving having 46 grams of total sugar. To get a complete picture, a side-by-side comparison is essential.
Comparing A&W Options: High-Sugar vs. Zero-Sugar
To better visualize the difference in sugar content, here is a comparison table of several popular A&W drink options.
| Drink Item (12 fl oz) | Sugar Content (grams) | Added Sugars (% Daily Value) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| A&W Root Beer | 43g | 86% | Contains high fructose corn syrup. |
| A&W Zero Sugar Root Beer | 0g | 0% | Uses artificial sweeteners; zero calories. |
| A&W Cream Soda | 46g | 91% | Also contains high fructose corn syrup. |
Making Healthier Choices at A&W
When craving a drink at A&W but want to be mindful of sugar intake, several healthier options are available:
- A&W Zero Sugar Root Beer: The best choice for those who love the classic flavor without the sugar.
- Unsweetened Iced Tea: A refreshing, low-calorie beverage with zero sugar.
- Water: The most hydrating and sugar-free option.
- Low-Fat Milk: Available in some locations and offers a source of protein and calcium with less sugar than a milkshake.
How A&W's Sugar Compares to Other Sodas
A&W Root Beer's sugar content is on par with, or in some cases higher than, other popular soft drinks. For instance, a 12 fl oz can of regular Coca-Cola has about 39 grams of sugar, while Pepsi has around 41 grams. A 12 fl oz A&W can containing 43 grams places it slightly above these common competitors. This demonstrates that while A&W's classic offerings are not unique in their high sugar content, they are certainly a major contributor to daily intake if consumed regularly.
For more insight into managing your sugar intake from beverages, consider reviewing resources like the Michigan State University Extension article on sugary drinks.
Conclusion: Balancing Indulgence and Health
While A&W offers beloved classic drinks, it is crucial to recognize their significant sugar and calorie contributions. The classic A&W Root Beer, along with its floats and milkshakes, can quickly push daily sugar intake far above recommended limits. Fortunately, A&W provides excellent zero-sugar alternatives for their signature root beer, along with options like unsweetened iced tea, enabling customers to enjoy the flavor without the sugar overload. By being mindful of serving sizes and choosing alternatives wisely, you can enjoy a trip to A&W while keeping your health goals in mind.
