PLEZi Nutrition, co-founded by former First Lady Michelle Obama, aims to offer beverages with less sugar and no artificial sweeteners to help consumers adjust to less sweetness. The brand includes juice boxes, a Hydration series, and FiZZ sparkling drinks, all of which get their total sugar content from real fruit juice.
Breaking Down the Sugar Content by Product
PLEZi Kids' Juice Boxes
These are designed with significantly less sugar than typical 100% fruit juices. Each 6.75 oz juice box has 5 grams of total sugar, which is substantially less than the approximately 21 grams found in leading 100% fruit juices. The sweetness comes from fruit juice concentrate, natural vegetable fiber, and Stevia leaf extract.
PLEZi Hydration Drinks
For active individuals, these drinks provide electrolytes and a moderate sugar level. A 16.9 oz bottle contains 12 grams of total sugar. Unlike many sports drinks that have around 28 grams of sugar, PLEZi Hydration contains no added sugar and includes potassium for hydration.
PLEZi FiZZ Sparkling Drinks
FiZZ offers a sparkling option with less sugar than traditional sodas. An 8.4 oz serving has 8 grams of total sugar, increasing to 10g for a 12oz serving. This contrasts sharply with leading soft drinks, which can contain about 40 grams of sugar per 12oz. The sweetness is from fruit juice and Stevia leaf extract.
Comparison: PLEZi vs. Conventional Beverages
This table highlights the sugar differences between PLEZi and common sugary drinks.
| Beverage Type | Serving Size | PLEZi Total Sugar | Comparative Product Average Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kids' Juice | 6.75 oz | 5g | ~21g (leading 100% juices) |
| Hydration Drink | 16.9 oz | 12g | ~28g (leading regular sports drink) |
| Sparkling Drink | 12 oz | 10g | ~40g (leading soft drinks) |
How PLEZi Reduces Sugar and Sweetness
PLEZi uses real fruit juice and Stevia leaf extract for flavor and sweetness, avoiding artificial sweeteners. Soluble vegetable fiber is also added for taste and gut health. This approach aims to help consumers, particularly children, become less accustomed to very sweet drinks. Functional ingredients like fiber, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and Vitamin C are also included. While these drinks are a better alternative to sugary options, water remains the best for hydration.
The PLEZi Story: Purpose-Driven Nutrition
PLEZi Nutrition is a public benefit company focused on improving children's health, reinvesting profits into health initiatives. Co-founded by Michelle Obama, the brand collaborates with figures like Stephen Curry to promote healthier options. Their transparency about ingredients supports their mission to encourage healthier beverage choices. You can learn more about their mission and products on the official PLEZi website.
Conclusion: A Lower-Sugar Alternative
In conclusion, PLEZi drinks offer significantly less sugar than most traditional sports drinks, juices, and sodas. With no added sugar, total sugar content varies by product, from 5g in juice boxes to 12g in Hydration drinks. By utilizing real fruit juice, natural sweeteners, and beneficial nutrients, PLEZi provides a practical and flavorful option for reducing sugar intake and helping to shape healthier preferences.
