How Much Sugar Is in Lemon Barley Water?

November 13, 2025 •

3 min read

A standard 250ml serving of Robinsons Lemon Barley Water contains 9.5 grams of sugar, equivalent to over two teaspoons. This figure highlights that the amount of sugar in lemon barley water is not consistent and depends heavily on whether it is a processed cordial or a natural, homemade beverage.

Quick Summary

The sugar content of lemon barley water varies significantly, with commercial cordials often being high in sugar and homemade versions offering a healthier, naturally sweetened or sugar-free alternative.

Key Points

Commercial drinks are high in sugar: Many store-bought cordials contain significant added sugar, contrary to their healthy image.
Homemade is the healthiest option: Making it at home allows you to control the sugar content, opting for natural or no sweeteners.
Robinsons contains 9.5g of sugar per serving: A diluted 250ml serving of Robinsons brand contains 9.5g of sugars, demonstrating the high sugar load in commercial options.
Barley provides fiber and nutrients: The health benefits associated with barley come from the grain itself and its fiber (beta-glucans), which are more present in unstrained, homemade versions.
Always read ingredient labels: Check for sugar, corn syrup, and artificial sweeteners in commercial cordials before purchasing.
Consider natural sweeteners: For sweetness in homemade versions, options like a small amount of honey or stevia can be used in moderation.

The Surprising Sugar Content of Commercial Lemon Barley Water

For many, lemon barley water brings to mind a wholesome, traditional beverage. However, the nutritional reality of store-bought versions is often different. Most commercial lemon barley water is not a simple mix of barley and lemon but a cordial or concentrate formulated with high levels of added sugar, preservatives, and flavorings. This sweetening is used to increase shelf life and improve taste, but it significantly alters the drink's nutritional profile.

Analyzing Popular Brands

Nutritional data from popular brands reveals the high sugar content. For example, a diluted 250ml serving of Robinsons Lemon Barley Water contains 9.5 grams of sugar. This is a medium-to-high level of sugar for a single beverage serving, especially one often consumed for its perceived health benefits. Other brands like Bickford's Lemon Barley Cordial also show significant sugar levels, with a 250ml serving containing 24.2 grams of sugar. These figures often go unnoticed by consumers who assume the drink is as healthy as its natural, homemade counterpart.

The Healthier Homemade Alternative

Homemade lemon barley water, in contrast, offers complete control over the ingredients. A traditional recipe involves simmering barley grains in water with lemon zest and then straining the liquid. Any sweetener is added at the end and is entirely optional. This allows for a naturally low-sugar or even sugar-free beverage that retains the benefits of the barley itself.

A Simple Low-Sugar Homemade Recipe

Making your own lemon barley water is simple and guarantees a low-sugar drink. Here is a basic recipe:

Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups water
- 2 lemons (zest and juice)
- Optional: Natural sweetener like a small amount of honey or stevia to taste
Method:
1. Rinse the barley thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed barley, water, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-30 minutes, or until the barley is soft and the water has a milky appearance.
4. Strain the liquid into a heatproof container, discarding the barley grains (or save them for other recipes).
5. Add the lemon juice and your desired sweetener (if any) to the strained liquid, and stir to combine.
6. Let the mixture cool completely before refrigerating. Serve chilled.

Commercial vs. Homemade: A Nutritional Comparison


Feature	Commercial Lemon Barley Water (Cordial)	Homemade Lemon Barley Water
Sugar Content (per 250ml serving)	High (e.g., Robinsons 9.5g)	Very Low to None (dependent on added sweetener)
Ingredients	Water, sugar, lemon juice from concentrate, barley flour, citric acid, preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium metabisulfite), sweeteners (saccharin), natural flavorings	Water, pearl barley, fresh lemon zest and juice
Additives	Contains preservatives and possibly artificial sweeteners	None
Health Benefits	Primarily offers hydration, but high sugar content can outweigh benefits	Aids digestion, supports kidneys and liver, and provides fiber (if unstrained) and antioxidants
Fiber Content	Often negligible, as barley grains are strained out	High, especially if consumed unstrained
Flavor	Artificially enhanced and often very sweet	Natural, subtle, and adjustable to personal preference

Making a Healthier Choice

If you're seeking the benefits of barley water without the high sugar load, several strategies can help:

Prioritize Homemade: The most effective way to control sugar is to make your own from scratch. You can sweeten it naturally with a small amount of honey or use a non-caloric sweetener like stevia.
Dilute Further: If purchasing a commercial cordial, diluting it with more water than the label recommends can help reduce the sugar intake per serving.
Infused Water: For a simpler option, add pearl barley and fresh lemon to a large pitcher of water and let it infuse overnight in the refrigerator. This provides a subtle flavor without boiling the barley.
Look for Alternatives: There are many other healthy, low-sugar beverages available. Plain water infused with fresh fruits, herbal tea, or coconut water are all excellent choices.

Conclusion

The amount of sugar in lemon barley water is not a single number but a spectrum, ranging from the high content of commercial concentrates to the naturally low levels of homemade versions. While store-bought cordials can contain a surprisingly high amount of added sugar, making the drink at home offers a healthier, preservative-free alternative. By controlling your ingredients and opting for natural sweetness, you can enjoy the traditional benefits of this beverage without the negative effects of excessive sugar.

More information on barley water's benefits is available from Healthline.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

While homemade lemon barley water offers health benefits like fiber and hydration, store-bought versions often contain high levels of sugar and preservatives that can negate these benefits.

A typical 250ml diluted serving of Robinsons Lemon Barley Water contains 9.5 grams of sugars.

It depends on the recipe. Traditional recipes sometimes add honey or other sweeteners, but homemade lemon barley water can easily be made with no added sugar.

Yes, you can make a sugar-free version by simply boiling pearl barley and lemon zest in water and consuming the strained liquid without any sweetener.

Excellent low-sugar alternatives include plain water infused with lemon and mint, sparkling water with fresh fruit slices, or unsweetened herbal teas.

Sugar is added to commercial cordials to improve taste, balance the tartness of the lemon, and act as a preservative. Low-sugar variants often substitute sugar with artificial sweeteners.

Homemade barley water, especially without added sugar, can be beneficial for diabetics due to its fiber content which can help manage blood sugar levels. However, high-sugar commercial versions should be avoided.