What's Sweetening Your Bubbl'r?
For those questioning if there is fake sugar in BUBBL'R, the short answer is no, not in the traditional sense of artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose. The brand's official website and product labels confirm the use of a combination of two specific sweeteners: stevia leaf extract and erythritol. These are generally considered to be from natural sources, but they are both processed and serve different functions in the beverage's flavor profile.
Stevia Leaf Extract
Stevia leaf extract is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It is intensely sweet, with estimates suggesting it can be 200 to 350 times sweeter than table sugar. In BUBBL'R, only a very small amount is needed to achieve significant sweetness. While it offers a low-calorie option, some people can detect a slightly bitter aftertaste in pure stevia.
Erythritol
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in some fruits, but in commercial products like BUBBL'R, it is produced through fermentation. It is about 60–80% as sweet as table sugar and has very few calories (approximately 0.2 calories per gram). In BUBBL'R, erythritol is used to balance the intense sweetness of stevia leaf extract. It provides bulk and a more sugar-like mouthfeel, and it doesn't leave the same aftertaste that pure stevia can.
Natural vs. Artificial Sweeteners: The Fine Print
The distinction between 'natural' and 'artificial' can be blurry, particularly for processed compounds like stevia extract and commercially produced erythritol. While both originate from natural sources, the end product in your can of BUBBL'R is the result of significant industrial processing. The key difference is their origin, not necessarily the amount of processing involved to make them shelf-stable and palatable.
- Natural Origin: Both stevia and erythritol come from plants, which allows BUBBL'R to claim 'no artificial sweeteners.'
- Processing: Extracting and purifying stevia, and fermenting corn to produce erythritol, are chemical processes that separate the compound from its original source.
Comparing Bubbl'r's Sweeteners to Other Options
| Feature | BUBBL'R Sweeteners (Stevia & Erythritol) | Traditional Sugar (Sucrose) | Aspartame (e.g., in Diet Soda) | Sucralose (e.g., Splenda) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Plant-based (Stevia leaf & fermented corn) | Plant-based (Sugar cane/beets) | Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Calories | 0 (per gram) | 4 calories/gram | 0 (per gram) | 0 (per gram) |
| Blood Sugar Impact | 0 glycemic index; no blood sugar spike | High glycemic index; spikes blood sugar | Does not spike blood sugar | Can spike insulin for some |
| Sweetness | Intense (Stevia 200-350x) & Moderate (Erythritol 60-70%) | Standard (1x) | Very Intense (600x) | Very Intense (600x) |
| Aftertaste | Stevia can have a slight bitterness; Erythritol can have a cooling effect | None | Can have a chemical or metallic aftertaste | Some detect an aftertaste |
Weighing the Potential Health Concerns
While BUBBL'R offers a zero-sugar alternative, it's not without potential health considerations, primarily centered on erythritol.
Erythritol and Cardiovascular Risk
In early 2023, a study from the Cleveland Clinic made headlines for linking higher levels of erythritol to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. The research, which was initially accidental, found that erythritol could enhance blood clotting. When healthy volunteers consumed a high-dose erythritol beverage (30g), their blood levels remained elevated for days, and their platelets showed increased clotting activity. While the amount of erythritol in a single can of BUBBL'R (6-7g) is significantly lower than the 30g dose used in the study, this research has led some experts to advise caution, especially for individuals already at risk for cardiovascular issues. It's also important to note that the study showed an association, not definitive causation, and more research is needed.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Erythritol, being a sugar alcohol, can cause digestive distress in some individuals, particularly when consumed in large quantities. Potential side effects include bloating, cramping, gas, and diarrhea, as it is not fully digested by the body.
Conclusion
So, is there fake sugar in BUBBL'R? No, the drink is sweetened with stevia leaf extract and erythritol, which are generally categorized as naturally derived sweeteners, not artificial ones. This allows the beverage to be calorie-free and sugar-free while still providing a sweet taste. However, the use of erythritol is a point of consideration for health-conscious consumers. Recent studies have raised questions about its potential link to cardiovascular risk, and its propensity for causing gastrointestinal issues is well-documented. As with any dietary choice, moderation is key. BUBBL'R can serve as a healthier alternative to high-sugar sodas, but it is not without its own set of potential side effects, particularly for those with underlying health conditions or sensitive digestive systems. Checking the ingredient label and understanding what's inside is always the best approach to mindful nutrition.
Authoritative Link
For more detailed information on sweeteners, you can refer to the FDA's guidance and reports. The FDA considers both erythritol and high-purity steviol glycosides as 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) based on current scientific data.
