What is High Noon made of?
High Noon is a popular brand of hard seltzer that sets itself apart by using a specific set of ingredients. Unlike many competitors that rely on fermented cane sugar or malt liquor as their alcohol base, High Noon is crafted with real vodka and real fruit juice. The other primary components are sparkling water and natural flavors. This simple ingredient list, combined with their transparent marketing, appeals to a consumer base that is increasingly health-conscious and prefers less artificial alternatives.
Core Nutritional Facts
For a standard 12-ounce can of High Noon, the core nutritional information is quite consistent across its various vodka-based fruit flavors, such as Pineapple, Watermelon, and Black Cherry.
- Calories: 100 calories per can.
- Added Sugar: 0 grams, as the sweetness comes from the real fruit juice.
- Carbohydrates: Typically around 2.6 to 4.8 grams, depending on the flavor, all from the fruit juice.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, since the alcohol is derived from vodka (made from corn) and not a grain-based brew.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 4.5%.
High Noon vs. Other Popular Drinks: A Nutritional Comparison
To understand whether High Noon is a healthier choice, it is helpful to compare its nutritional profile against other common alcoholic beverages. This context reveals that while High Noon has advantages in certain metrics, the overall health impact of alcohol must still be considered.
| Beverage (12 oz) | Alcohol Base | ABV (%) | Calories (Approx.) | Added Sugar (g) | Gluten-Free | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Noon Hard Seltzer | Vodka | 4.5% | 100 | 0 | Yes | |
| Standard Hard Seltzer | Fermented Sugar | 5% | 100 | Varies | Yes | |
| Light Beer | Malted Barley | 4.2% | 100 | Varies | No | |
| Regular Beer | Malted Barley | 5% | 150 | Varies | No | |
| White Wine | Grapes | 10%+ | 120 (5 oz serving) | Varies | Yes | |
| Sugary Cocktail | Spirits | Varies | 200+ | High | Varies |
As the table shows, a single can of High Noon is comparable in calories to a light beer and most other hard seltzers. Where it stands out is its use of real spirits and real fruit juice over malt liquor and added sugars, which some consumers prefer for flavor and perceived ingredient quality.
The broader context of 'healthy' alcohol consumption
While High Noon's low-calorie, low-sugar profile may be a better option than a sugary cocktail, experts emphasize that no alcoholic beverage can be considered truly 'healthy'. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for health, citing its link to numerous diseases and cancers. The health implications of consuming alcohol, regardless of the vessel, include:
- Weight Gain: Alcohol contains calories (7 calories per gram, nearly as much as pure fat), which can contribute to weight gain. Your body also prioritizes burning alcohol, slowing down the metabolism of fats.
- Liver and Organ Damage: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to liver disease, pancreatitis, and damage to the brain and nervous system.
- Increased Cancer Risk: Alcohol is a known carcinogen, and drinking even in moderation can increase the risk of several cancers, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer.
- Dehydration: As a diuretic, alcohol can cause dehydration, which contributes to hangovers and negatively impacts overall bodily functions.
- Mental Health: Alcohol consumption can disrupt sleep patterns and potentially exacerbate conditions like depression.
Making a Health-Conscious Drinking Choice
If you choose to drink, and you are mindful of your caloric and sugar intake, High Noon is a viable option. However, making a truly health-conscious choice involves more than just selecting a specific brand. It requires moderation and awareness.
Tips for choosing and consuming alcohol more mindfully:
- Focus on Moderation: The CDC defines moderate drinking as one drink or less a day for women and two or less a day for men.
- Read Labels: Look for options with low or no added sugars and a reasonable ABV. Be aware of serving sizes.
- Consider the Ingredients: Opting for drinks made with real, minimal ingredients (like High Noon) over those with artificial sweeteners and excess additives is a preference for many.
- Stay Hydrated: Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to mitigate dehydration.
- Recognize the Risks: Always be aware that alcohol consumption carries health risks, and no brand is entirely 'healthy.'
Conclusion: Is High Noon a health-conscious compromise?
Ultimately, calling High Noon a 'healthy' alcohol choice is misleading, as all alcohol poses health risks. Its true value lies in being a better-for-you alternative within the alcoholic beverage market. For those who choose to drink, High Noon's combination of low calories, no added sugar, and real ingredients makes it a superior option compared to many other high-sugar hard seltzers, beers, and cocktails. However, a truly healthy lifestyle prioritizes moderation and responsible consumption above all else. Individuals should consider their personal health goals and the overall impact of alcohol before deciding if High Noon, or any alcoholic beverage, fits into their routine.
For more detailed information on alcohol's effects on the body, consult the official website of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Alcohol's Effects on the Body.
