Is Robinsons squash high in sugar? The sugar content breakdown
Many consumers believe that all squash is a high-sugar drink, but the reality for the Robinsons brand is more nuanced. The answer depends entirely on which specific product you are holding. Since 2015, the vast majority of their main fruit squash products have been reformulated to contain no added sugar, using artificial sweeteners instead. This means that while some sugar is present naturally from the fruit juice, the sugar content per serving is very low.
Understanding Robinsons' "No Added Sugar" claim
The "No Added Sugar" label is key to understanding Robinsons' products. This indicates that sucrose (table sugar) has not been added to the recipe. Instead, the sweet taste is provided by low-calorie, non-nutritive sweeteners. Key points about this range include:
- Real Fruit in Every Drop: Robinsons emphasizes that real fruit is squeezed, pressed, or crushed into every bottle.
- Sweeteners Used: Common artificial sweeteners found in their products include sucralose and acesulfame K.
- Minimal Calories: The low sugar content translates to very few calories per glass, with some products having as little as 3-5 kcal per 250ml serving.
How much sugar is in Robinsons squash?
For the standard 'No Added Sugar' range, the sugar content per 100ml of diluted squash is negligible, often around 0.1g or 0.6g, as it only comes from the naturally occurring fruit sugars. A 250ml glass, therefore, contains a minimal amount of sugar. However, this differs greatly from their traditional products.
Here are the different types of sugar content you can expect:
- 'No Added Sugar' Squashes: Contain trace amounts of sugar from fruit and are sweetened with sucralose and acesulfame K.
- 'Fruit Cordials': These are explicitly labelled and contain a blend of sugar and stevia, so they are not sugar-free.
- Squash'd (Mini Concentrates): These portable versions are also advertised as having no added sugar and minimal calories per serving.
The role of artificial sweeteners
Instead of sugar, Robinsons' no-added-sugar products rely on sweeteners to achieve their fruity flavour. These compounds provide sweetness without the calories of sugar. For instance, a 2018 study cited by the British Heart Foundation mentioned that while some squashes are very high in sugar, products like Robinsons Double Strength Summer Fruits No Added Sugar contained 0g of sugar in diluted form. While sweeteners are approved as safe for consumption, they remain a topic of debate for some consumers and health professionals.
Comparing Robinsons regular vs. no added sugar
To make an informed decision, it's important to compare the two main types of Robinsons products available on the market. The difference in sugar and calorie content is substantial.
| Feature | Robinsons "No Added Sugar" Squash | Robinsons "Fruit Cordial" (Traditional) |
|---|---|---|
| Added Sugar | No added sugar. | Contains added sugar and stevia. |
| Natural Sugars | Contains naturally occurring fruit sugars. | Contains naturally occurring fruit sugars plus added sugar. |
| Sweeteners | Primarily Sucralose and Acesulfame K. | Sugar and stevia blend. |
| Calories (per 250ml diluted) | Very low (e.g., 3-5 kcal). | Significantly higher due to sugar content. |
| Best For | Health-conscious, low-calorie diets, reducing overall sugar intake. | Those who prefer the taste of traditional sugar-sweetened drinks. |
Is Robinsons a healthy choice?
Whether Robinsons squash is a healthy choice depends on your personal health goals. For those looking to reduce calorie and sugar intake, the 'No Added Sugar' range is a beneficial alternative to sugary drinks like soda or fruit juice, which can be surprisingly high in sugar. The British Dental Association has recommended squash as a good alternative to plain water or milk. However, some considerations remain:
- Effect on Gut Microbiome: Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners could potentially impact the gut microbiome, although this research is still ongoing.
- Dental Erosion: Even sugar-free options are acidic due to ingredients like citric acid, which can contribute to dental erosion over time. Rinsing with water after consumption can help mitigate this.
- Hydration: For simply staying hydrated, plain water remains the best option. However, if flavour helps you drink more, a no-added-sugar squash is a better choice than a high-sugar alternative.
For more information on the safety of sweeteners, the NHS provides a helpful overview: Are sweeteners safe?
Conclusion: Is Robinsons squash high in sugar?
In conclusion, the claim that Robinsons squash is universally high in sugar is inaccurate. The brand has made a concerted effort to remove added sugar from its core range, which is now sweetened with artificial sweeteners and contains only naturally occurring fruit sugars. This makes the vast majority of their products a low-calorie, low-sugar option compared to traditional soft drinks. Consumers must, however, be aware of specific product lines like the Fruit Cordials, which do contain added sugar. Checking the label is essential for making a sugar-conscious choice. Ultimately, while not a substitute for water, the 'No Added Sugar' range is a sensible and tasty alternative for managing sugar intake.
