What is High Noon Seltzer Made Of?
High Noon hard seltzers set themselves apart from many competitors by using a distilled spirit base rather than fermented cane sugar or malted barley. This difference is crucial to its ingredient profile and nutritional content. A typical 12-ounce can of High Noon vodka seltzer contains:
- Real Vodka: Distilled from Midwest-grown corn.
- Real Fruit Juice: Used for authentic flavor, not artificial additives.
- Sparkling Water: For that refreshing fizz.
- Natural Flavors: Additional flavorings derived from natural sources.
This composition is distinct from many malt-based hard seltzers, resulting in a clean, crisp taste that many consumers prefer. However, as with any alcoholic beverage, the ingredients and production method do not automatically equate to a 'healthy' product.
High Noon's Nutritional Profile: The Details
For health-conscious consumers, High Noon's nutritional facts are a major part of its appeal.
- Calories: Each standard 12-ounce can contains just 100 calories.
- Carbohydrates: It has a minimal carbohydrate count, typically around 2.6g per can.
- Sugar: A key selling point is that High Noon contains zero added sugar, though a small amount of sugar may be present naturally from the real fruit juice.
- Gluten-Free: Since it is made with corn-based vodka and real fruit juice, it is a gluten-free product, unlike many beers.
These numbers are impressive when compared to many sugary cocktails or higher-carb beers. However, context is vital. The calories in High Noon are often referred to as "empty calories" because they provide energy without any meaningful nutritional benefit, such as vitamins or minerals.
High Noon Seltzer vs. Other Alcoholic Beverages
To truly evaluate if High Noon is a "good" option for you, it's helpful to compare its nutritional content to other popular choices. The comparison table below highlights key differences.
| Beverage (12 oz Serving) | Calories | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Alcohol by Volume (ABV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Noon Hard Seltzer | ~100 | ~2.6 | ~0 (added) | ~4.5% |
| Light Beer | ~100 | ~5.3 | Varies | ~4.2% |
| Regular Beer | ~150 | ~12.8 | Varies | ~5% |
| Glass of Wine (5 oz) | ~125 | Up to 4 | Varies | 12–15% |
| Cocktail (e.g., Margarita) | >160 | Varies | High | Varies |
From a purely caloric and carbohydrate standpoint, High Noon competes favorably with or outperforms many common alcoholic drinks. This positions it as a better choice for those tracking their macros or on a low-carb diet. The absence of added sugar is another significant advantage for those mindful of their sugar intake.
The Moderation Factor: Empty Calories and Dehydration
Despite its appealing stats, High Noon is still an alcoholic beverage, and no amount of alcohol is truly "good" for you. Health professionals stress the importance of moderation. For adults who choose to drink, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting intake to one drink per day for women and two for men.
One risk with hard seltzers is that their light, refreshing taste can make it easy to consume more than intended. The calories, though low per can, can add up quickly. Additionally, alcohol is a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration. While non-alcoholic seltzer is hydrating, hard seltzer is not, and it's essential to drink plenty of water alongside any alcoholic beverage.
High Noon and Wellness Trends
High Noon's success is largely driven by its alignment with contemporary wellness trends. Its use of real vodka and real fruit juice, plus the low calorie and no-added-sugar profile, taps into a market segment looking for more transparent, natural ingredients in their food and drink. This positions it as a premium product and a step up from malt-based alternatives for many consumers. However, this marketing doesn't erase the fundamental health considerations of alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
So, is High Noon seltzer good for you? The simple answer is no; no alcoholic beverage is considered healthy. However, when viewed as an alternative within the broader category of alcoholic drinks, High Noon offers certain advantages. Its low calorie and low carbohydrate content, zero added sugar, and gluten-free formulation make it a relatively healthier option compared to sugary cocktails or heavier beers. The use of real vodka and real fruit juice appeals to consumers seeking higher quality, more natural ingredients. The most important factor remains responsible consumption. Enjoying High Noon in moderation is key to mitigating the negative health effects associated with alcohol and keeping its calorie and carb count in check. For those adhering to dietary restrictions like gluten-free or low-sugar, High Noon is a suitable choice, but it should never be considered a health food.
Comparing High Noon to Other Hard Seltzers
High Noon is not the only player in the hard seltzer market that markets to health-conscious consumers. Its main competitors include brands that also focus on lower calories and sugar. For example, some brands use fermented cane sugar or a malt base instead of spirits, which can affect taste and carbohydrate content. A key distinction for High Noon is its real spirits base, which delivers a cleaner taste profile that many reviews praise. Other brands like White Claw (4.5% ABV, 95 calories) and Truly (5% ABV, 100 calories) are often malt-based and compete directly on calories and carbs. However, High Noon's use of real vodka and real juice is a premium differentiator that justifies its position in the market. Ultimately, for someone deciding between different hard seltzer brands, it comes down to personal preference for taste and alcohol base, as many share similar nutritional metrics.
Responsible Drinking is Always the Best Policy
Regardless of your drink of choice, it's paramount to practice responsible drinking. The ease with which hard seltzers can be consumed can lead to overindulgence. One or two drinks can turn into several, and the cumulative effects of alcohol can have long-term health consequences. The alcohol content in any hard seltzer, including High Noon, is sufficient to cause intoxication and lead to poor judgment. Health guidelines emphasize moderation, a principle that applies to all forms of alcohol. Therefore, enjoying High Noon should always be done with an eye toward responsible and mindful consumption.
Final Thoughts on High Noon
High Noon seltzer occupies a valuable niche in the beverage market, providing a low-calorie, low-carb, and gluten-free alternative to many other alcoholic drinks. Its premium ingredients, namely real vodka and real fruit juice, deliver a superior taste experience for many consumers. While it is a better choice from a nutritional perspective than a sugary cocktail, it is still an alcoholic beverage. As such, it should be consumed in moderation, and its calories, however few, should be accounted for. For those seeking a refreshing, lighter alcoholic drink, High Noon is an excellent option, but it is not a health product and should be treated as a treat, not a wellness beverage.
High Noon vs. Non-Alcoholic Seltzer: A Crucial Distinction
It is important to not confuse High Noon hard seltzer with its non-alcoholic counterpart. Non-alcoholic seltzer water is a hydrating, zero-calorie beverage that supports overall health and hydration. High Noon, due to its alcohol content, is a dehydrating substance. The alcohol in it acts as a diuretic, causing the body to expel water. Drinking High Noon will not replenish your body's fluids in the same way that regular seltzer or water does. This distinction is vital for anyone who views hard seltzer as a way to stay refreshed on a hot day or during exercise. To avoid dehydration while drinking High Noon, it is best practice to alternate each alcoholic seltzer with a glass of water.
