Understanding the High Noon Calorie Count
For many consumers, especially those mindful of their diet and calorie intake, the nutritional information of beverages is a key consideration. High Noon has built its brand around providing a cleaner, lighter alcoholic option made with real vodka, real fruit juice, and sparkling water. The core nutritional information confirms its positioning as a low-calorie drink in the alcohol market.
Every 12-ounce can of High Noon vodka seltzer consistently contains 100 calories, a figure that is prominently displayed on its packaging and mentioned in various product descriptions. The brand achieves this by using a high-quality, five-times distilled vodka base and real fruit juice, with no added sugar. The calories that are present are primarily from the alcohol itself and the minimal carbohydrates from the real fruit juice.
High Noon vs. Other Alcoholic Beverages
To truly answer the question, "is High Noon high in calories?", it's essential to compare it to other popular alcoholic drinks. High Noon's 100-calorie count is significantly lower than many alternatives, making it a favorable choice for those looking to reduce their caloric intake from alcohol. For instance, a standard 12-ounce beer can contain over 150 calories, while a 5-ounce glass of red wine typically has around 125 calories. Mixed drinks, which often contain added syrups and sugary sodas, can easily exceed 200 or 300 calories per serving.
| Beverage Type | Serving Size | Approximate Calories | Key Calorie Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Noon Hard Seltzer | 12 oz can | 100 | Vodka and real fruit juice |
| Beer | 12 oz can | 150-200+ | Carbohydrates, alcohol |
| Red Wine | 5 oz glass | 125 | Alcohol, residual sugar |
| Margarita | 5-8 oz | 200-300+ | Tequila, mixers, added sugar |
| Moscow Mule | 8 oz | ~180 | Vodka, ginger beer, lime |
| Gin & Tonic | 8 oz | ~140 | Gin, tonic water |
The Impact of High Noon's Ingredients on Calories
High Noon's commitment to using simple, high-quality ingredients is directly linked to its lower calorie count. Unlike many other hard seltzers that use malted barley, High Noon's vodka base avoids the additional carbs and calories associated with a fermented sugar mash. Key ingredient factors that influence its low calorie profile include:
- Real Vodka: Made from corn, the vodka is a pure source of alcohol and is naturally gluten-free. Alcohol itself contains calories (approximately 7 calories per gram), so any alcoholic beverage will have calories. High Noon's 4.5% ABV is a moderate alcohol content, keeping the calories from this source in check.
- Real Fruit Juice: The use of real juice provides authentic flavor without the need for artificial flavorings or excessive sugar. The natural sugars from the fruit contribute a small amount of calories and carbohydrates, typically around 2.6-5g per can, with no added sugars.
- Sparkling Water: This calorie-free ingredient is used to create the seltzer base, adding refreshment without any extra energy content.
Other Factors to Consider for Caloric Intake
While High Noon is a low-calorie option, it is still an alcoholic beverage, and moderation is key for any dietary plan. Here are a few points to consider:
- Empty Calories: The calories in alcohol are often referred to as "empty calories" because they provide little to no nutritional value. While a 100-calorie High Noon is preferable to a 300-calorie cocktail, excessive consumption can still lead to weight gain if not accounted for in your daily caloric intake.
- Flavor Variations: All standard High Noon vodka seltzer flavors contain 100 calories per 12 oz can, making it easy to track your intake regardless of your choice. However, newer product lines or larger can sizes would have different nutritional information.
- Metabolism: Alcohol consumption can slow down your metabolism and change how your body absorbs nutrients. This can impact weight management even with a low-calorie beverage.
- Social Settings: The appeal of High Noon is its convenience and portability. It's easy to enjoy by the pool or at a barbecue, but it's important to keep track of how many you consume over the course of an event, as the calories can add up quickly.
Conclusion: Is High Noon High in Calories?
In conclusion, no, High Noon is not high in calories when compared to most other alcoholic beverage options. With only 100 calories per 12-ounce can and no added sugar, it is a low-calorie alternative for those seeking a lighter alcoholic drink. Its formulation with real vodka and real fruit juice positions it as a premium option in the hard seltzer market, appealing to health-conscious consumers. However, as with any alcoholic drink, mindful consumption is always recommended as part of a balanced diet.
For more information on alcohol and nutrition, you can consult resources like the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
