What's in an Outshine Watermelon Popsicle?
An Outshine watermelon popsicle is marketed as a treat made with 'real fruit' and 'fruit juice'. A closer look at the ingredient list for the standard version reveals the following:
- Watermelon Puree
- Water
- Cane Sugar
- Citric Acid
- Natural Flavor
- Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
- Guar Gum
- Carob Bean Gum
- Turmeric Oleoresin Color
- Beet Juice Color
The first two ingredients are exactly what one would expect from a watermelon-flavored treat. However, the third ingredient, cane sugar, is where the health profile shifts. It's a key source of the added sugar in the popsicle. Other ingredients, like guar gum and carob bean gum, are added as thickeners and are generally considered safe but offer no nutritional value.
Nutritional Breakdown and Sugar Content
For a standard Outshine watermelon popsicle, the nutritional information is crucial for determining its healthiness. Here's what the label typically shows:
- Calories: 60-70 calories per bar.
- Total Sugars: 13-27g per bar, depending on serving size variations.
- Added Sugars: 11-22g, which is a significant portion of the total sugars.
- Dietary Fiber: 0g.
- Vitamin C: The popsicles are a good source of Vitamin C.
The high amount of added sugar is the primary concern for a product marketed as a healthy alternative. The American Heart Association recommends limiting daily added sugar intake to 25 grams for women and 36 grams for men. A single standard watermelon popsicle can account for a significant portion of that daily limit. Some flavors are also low in dietary fiber, which is crucial for balancing the effects of sugar on the body.
The 'Healthy' Label: Context is Key
The term 'healthy' is subjective and depends on context. An Outshine watermelon popsicle is not a whole food like a fresh piece of watermelon, but it can be a healthier choice compared to some other frozen desserts. Its ingredient list is simpler than many sugary ice creams, and it's free from high-fructose corn syrup, GMOs, and artificial colors or flavors.
However, it's essential to recognize that the processing involved, particularly the addition of cane sugar and thickeners, elevates it from a nutritious fruit to a sweet treat. The lack of fiber and the concentration of sugars mean it should be consumed in moderation as a dessert, not as a substitute for real fruit.
Outshine vs. Other Frozen Treats
Comparing Outshine to other common frozen desserts highlights its relative pros and cons. Here is a comparison table:
| Feature | Outshine Watermelon Popsicle | Standard Fruit-Flavored Ice Cream | Homemade Watermelon Pop | Frozen Yogurt Bar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Fruit | Yes, watermelon puree and concentrate | Often artificial flavors or minimal fruit | Yes, 100% fresh watermelon | Varies; contains dairy, sugars |
| Added Sugars | Significant added sugar content | High in added sugar | None (can be made with natural sweeteners) | Moderate to high added sugar |
| Artificial Ingredients | No artificial colors or flavors | Often contain artificial colors and flavors | None | Can contain artificial additives |
| Fiber Content | Low (0g) | Very low or none | High, if using the whole fruit | Low to moderate |
| Calories | Lower (60-70 per bar) | Higher (typically 150-300+ per serving) | Very low (under 50) | Varies (often 100-200+) |
As the table shows, Outshine occupies a middle ground. It's an improvement over traditional, artificially-flavored ice cream bars but is not a whole-food product like a homemade fruit pop. Its main drawback is the added sugar, which impacts its overall health score.
Making a Healthier Choice: Alternatives
For those seeking a genuinely healthy frozen treat, several alternatives exist:
- Make Your Own Popsicles: Blend fresh watermelon with a squeeze of lime juice and a natural sweetener like a date or a splash of coconut water, then freeze. This eliminates added sugar and preserves the fiber. You can use a popsicle mold or an ice cube tray.
- Eat Fresh Watermelon: The simplest and healthiest option is to enjoy fresh, chilled watermelon. It's naturally sweet, hydrating, and full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene.
- Try the No-Sugar-Added Outshine: Outshine offers no-sugar-added versions, but it's important to read the ingredients. Some of these use artificial sweeteners like sucralose and sorbitol, which have their own set of potential issues, including digestive problems for some individuals and uncertain long-term health effects.
Conclusion
So, is an Outshine watermelon popsicle healthy? The answer is conditional. It's healthier than many conventional frozen desserts because it uses real fruit puree and avoids high-fructose corn syrup and artificial ingredients. However, it is not a direct substitute for eating fresh, whole fruit. The significant amount of added cane sugar places it in the category of a moderation-only treat rather than a truly 'healthy' snack. For the absolute healthiest option, homemade popsicles from whole fruit are the clear winner.
Ultimately, whether Outshine is a good choice depends on your overall dietary goals. If you are watching your sugar intake or seeking whole-food nutrition, it's best to enjoy it sparingly. If you're simply looking for a more wholesome alternative to a heavy, sugary ice cream bar, an Outshine watermelon popsicle fits the bill.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for dietary recommendations.
