The Nutritional Breakdown: Brisk Iced Tea vs. Soda
When evaluating any two beverages, a look at their nutritional profile is essential. On the surface, Brisk iced tea seems like a healthier choice due to its non-carbonated nature and the association with traditional tea. However, a deeper look at the ingredient lists and nutritional facts reveals that the differences are not as stark as many assume. The key culprit in both is sugar, often in the form of high-fructose corn syrup, along with a number of artificial additives.
Sugar Content: A Sweet Deception
For most people, the main reason to avoid soda is its high sugar content. A typical 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola contains about 39 grams of sugar. A 12-ounce can of Brisk lemon iced tea contains 17 grams of added sugar, while other flavors and sizes can be higher. While Brisk appears to have less sugar per serving, many people consume larger quantities in bottles rather than cans, potentially closing the gap. The presence of significant added sugars in both beverages means neither offers a truly healthy option for daily consumption. The World Health Organization recommends limiting daily intake of added sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake, and even a single can of either beverage can consume a large portion of that allowance.
Ingredients: A Closer Look
Beyond just sugar, the ingredient lists of Brisk and soda share several concerning items. Both frequently contain high-fructose corn syrup, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, and various preservatives. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has flagged many of these ingredients for potential health concerns, rating several Brisk products as "unhealthy ultra-processed food". The use of artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium in some Brisk products, particularly zero-sugar versions, also presents its own set of issues. Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners may not effectively aid in weight loss and could contribute to sweet cravings, undermining the very reason people choose them.
Additives and Processing: More Than Meets the Eye
- High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): This processed sweetener is a primary ingredient in both Brisk and many sodas. High intake of HFCS is linked to several health problems, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.
- Phosphoric Acid: Both Brisk and most colas contain phosphoric acid. While it adds a tart flavor and acts as a preservative, regular consumption has been linked to potential dental erosion and bone health concerns.
- Artificial Flavors and Colors: Both beverages rely on artificial flavors and colorings, such as caramel color and Red 40, to create their distinct look and taste. The health impacts of these additives, particularly with long-term exposure, are a subject of ongoing debate and concern for many health-conscious consumers.
A Truly Healthier Alternative: Brew Your Own Iced Tea
For those seeking a genuine alternative, brewing your own iced tea is the clear winner. By making tea at home, you can control every single ingredient, especially the amount of sugar. You also reap the full benefits of the antioxidants naturally found in tea leaves, which are largely absent or minimal in heavily processed, bottled varieties.
Some of the benefits of brewing your own tea include:
- Controlling the Sweetness: You can use natural, low-calorie sweeteners like stevia, or simply enjoy unsweetened tea.
- Maximum Antioxidant Content: Freshly brewed tea, especially green and black tea, is packed with beneficial polyphenols that help fight free radicals.
- Avoiding Artificial Ingredients: Homemade tea contains no high-fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives.
- Superior Hydration: Unlike heavily caffeinated drinks that can act as mild diuretics, unsweetened iced tea provides gentle and effective hydration.
Brisk vs. Soda: Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Brisk Lemon Iced Tea (12oz can) | Coca-Cola Classic (12oz can) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~70 calories | ~140 calories |
| Total Sugar | ~17g added sugars | ~39g added sugars |
| Main Sweetener | High Fructose Corn Syrup | High Fructose Corn Syrup |
| Primary Acids | Citric Acid, Phosphoric Acid | Phosphoric Acid |
| Ultra-Processed | Yes, classified by EWG | Yes, classified by EWG |
| Antioxidants | Minimal | None |
| Carbonation | No | Yes |
Conclusion: Making the Healthiest Choice
Ultimately, the question of whether Brisk iced tea is better for you than soda depends heavily on your perspective. From a pure sugar and calorie standpoint, a standard Brisk can has about half the sugar and calories of a standard Coke, making it a marginally better option. However, this distinction is practically irrelevant for your overall health. Both beverages are highly processed, laden with high-fructose corn syrup and artificial additives, and offer little to no nutritional value. Neither Brisk iced tea nor soda can be considered healthy choices for regular consumption. The healthiest choice for your thirst remains water or freshly brewed unsweetened tea, which provides hydration and antioxidants without the detrimental sugar load and additives.
For those who enjoy the flavor, the optimal solution is to transition towards brewing your own tea and sweetening it lightly, or not at all. This allows you to control all ingredients and maximize the potential health benefits of tea while avoiding the empty calories and additives of mass-produced alternatives. For a healthier alternative, consider brewing your own tea from quality leaves.
Note: Product formulations may vary by region. For the most accurate information, it is always best to check the nutritional label of the specific product you are purchasing.
Making a Healthier Choice
For those looking to move away from both Brisk and soda, here are a few simple tips:
- Start with Water: Make a conscious effort to increase your water intake. Adding lemon or cucumber can provide a refreshing flavor.
- Brew Your Own: Invest in some quality tea bags or loose-leaf tea. Black, green, or herbal teas can be brewed hot and then chilled.
- Use Natural Sweeteners (in moderation): If you prefer a little sweetness, use a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Avoid over-sweetening.
- Experiment with Infusions: Create fruit-infused water or tea by adding fresh berries, citrus slices, or mint leaves. This adds flavor without added sugar.
- Explore Unsweetened Options: Many companies now offer unsweetened bottled iced teas. Always check the label for hidden additives or artificial sweeteners.
Conclusion
The verdict is clear: Brisk iced tea is only negligibly better for you than soda. Both beverages are ultra-processed and loaded with high amounts of added sugar or artificial sweeteners, along with potentially concerning additives like phosphoric acid. While Brisk might contain fewer calories and sugar than a classic soda, it is still far from a healthy drink. The true path to a healthier beverage choice involves moving away from both options toward real, homemade, unsweetened tea or water.
