Decoding the 'Crush It': Hard Iced Tea vs. Protein Shake
Before you can know how much sugar is in a Crush It, you must first identify which product you are consuming. The brand name applies to two distinct items: a ready-to-drink alcoholic beverage and a dietary supplement. Their nutritional profiles, particularly their sugar content, are in no way comparable.
How Much Sugar is in Crush-It Hard Iced Tea?
Crush-It Hard Iced Tea is a Canadian-made, vodka-based beverage produced by Provincial Vodka. According to nutritional data, a 355ml (12 fl oz) can of Crush-It Hard Iced Tea contains:
- Total Sugar: 22g
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Calories: 110
The manufacturer positions the drink as having a smooth flavor "without the strong sugar taste often associated with coolers and mixed drinks". However, at 22 grams of sugar per can, this product falls firmly into the high-sugar category for an alcoholic beverage. For comparison, it is significantly sweeter than many low-sugar hard iced teas on the market.
How Much Sugar is in the CRUSH IT™ Protein Shake?
In stark contrast, CRUSH IT™ is a range of weight management shakes from the Sanitarium Health Food Company. These shakes are designed to control hunger and contain a high amount of protein and fiber. A single serving of the creamy vanilla flavor contains:
- Total Sugar: 8.4g
- Total Carbohydrates: 9.6g
- Protein: 40g
This product is marketed specifically as being "low sugar," and its nutritional content reflects that claim, with less than half the sugar of its alcoholic namesake.
Clarifying the Crush Brand vs. Crush It
Another potential source of confusion is the similar branding to Crush soda, a popular line of fruity soft drinks. It is important to note that Crush-It Hard Iced Tea and CRUSH IT™ shakes are not made by the same company as Crush soda. Crush sodas can contain significantly more sugar than either Crush-It product; for instance, a 12 fl oz can of Crush Orange can have up to 43 grams of added sugar.
Comparing Sugar Content: Crush It Against Common Beverages
To provide more context, here is a comparison of the sugar content in Crush-It Hard Iced Tea against other common drinks, including another popular hard tea brand and a typical soft drink.
| Beverage | Sugar Content | Serving Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crush-It Hard Iced Tea | 22g | 1 can (355ml) | Made with vodka |
| CRUSH IT™ Protein Shake | 8.4g | 1 serving | Low-sugar dietary supplement |
| Twisted Tea Original | 23.3g | 1 can (355ml) | Similar sugar content, made with malt |
| Coca-Cola Classic | 39g | 12 oz can | Contains significantly more sugar |
| Apple Juice (100%) | ~24g | 8 oz glass | Comparable sugar content to hard iced tea |
The Health Implications of Sugar Intake
Excessive sugar consumption, especially from sugary drinks, is associated with a number of health risks. The World Health Organization recommends limiting free sugars (like those in juice and soda) to less than 10% of total daily calories, with an ideal target of less than 5%.
Why excessive sugar is a concern
- Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases: High sugar intake is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
- Weight Gain: Sugary drinks can contribute to weight gain because they are often high in calories and may not create the same feeling of fullness as solid food.
- Dental Health: The sugars in beverages can contribute to dental cavities and other oral health issues.
Tips for reducing your sugar intake from beverages
For those looking to reduce their sugar consumption, here are some strategies:
- Choose Lower-Sugar Options: If you enjoy hard iced tea, consider switching to a lower-sugar or diet version of a similar product, such as Twisted Tea Light.
- Make Water Your Default: Plain water is always the healthiest option, with zero sugar and calories. You can flavor it naturally with fruit slices like lemon or berries.
- Eat Whole Fruit Instead: Instead of drinking fruit juice, eat the whole fruit to benefit from the fiber and nutrients while avoiding the sugar rush.
- Explore Other Beverages: Unsweetened teas, seltzers, and low-sugar cocktails can provide flavor without the high sugar content.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices About Your Crush It
Ultimately, understanding how much sugar is in a Crush It depends on correctly identifying the product. Crush-It Hard Iced Tea contains 22 grams of sugar per can, placing it in a similar category to other hard teas and fruit juices, while the CRUSH IT™ protein shake is designed to be a low-sugar, high-protein supplement. By being aware of these differences and comparing nutritional information, consumers can make more informed choices that align with their health and dietary goals.
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada - The truth about juice
How to Find Nutritional Information
To check the sugar content of any packaged food or drink, always consult the nutrition facts label. These labels provide a breakdown of sugars, carbohydrates, and other key nutrients, helping you make the most informed decision about your consumption.
