Yes, Simply Spiked Contains Sugar
For those wondering, 'is there sugar in Simply Spiked?' the definitive answer is yes. The Simply Spiked line of hard lemonades and limeades contains a notable amount of sugar in every can. The sweetness comes from a blend of cane sugar, which is a primary ingredient, as well as the fruit juices from concentrate used in the flavoring. The presence of sugar, combined with the real fruit juice, contributes to the juicy, sweet-tart flavor profile that sets it apart from many lower-sugar hard seltzers.
Breaking Down the Sweeteners
Simply Spiked doesn't rely on just one type of sweetener. In addition to cane sugar, the product's ingredients list includes Stevia extract. This zero-calorie natural sweetener is used to help balance the beverage's sweetness without relying solely on high-fructose corn syrup or large quantities of sugar. This combination of sweeteners is a strategic choice by the brand to achieve its desired flavor while also potentially managing some of the caloric content that would come from sugar alone.
Nutritional Information by Flavor
Across the Simply Spiked range, the nutritional information is quite consistent for a standard 12-ounce can, though specific details can vary slightly. Here's a general breakdown based on flavors like Signature Lemonade and Limeade:
- Calories: Approximately 170 calories per 12-ounce can.
- Total Carbohydrates: Roughly 19 grams.
- Total Sugars: Approximately 18 grams, which includes a significant amount of added sugars.
- Added Sugars: In many flavors, around 17 grams of the total sugars are added sugars.
- Protein & Fat: Both are 0 grams.
- Sodium: A small amount of sodium, typically around 40mg.
Simply Spiked vs. Traditional Hard Seltzers
The sugar content in Simply Spiked is a key differentiator from many popular hard seltzer brands. While some hard seltzers aim for minimal or zero sugar, Simply Spiked embraces a sweeter, more flavor-forward profile. This distinction is important for consumers tracking sugar intake or seeking a different flavor experience.
- Higher Sugar: Simply Spiked has a notably higher sugar count than many hard seltzers, which often contain only 1-2 grams of sugar or even zero grams.
- Sweeter Taste: The elevated sugar and real fruit juice content result in a sweeter, more flavorful beverage, reminiscent of a classic lemonade or limeade rather than a subtle, sparkling water.
- Carbohydrate Count: The higher sugar content also contributes to a higher carbohydrate count, which is a factor for those following low-carb diets.
- Calorie Density: With 170 calories per can, Simply Spiked is also more calorie-dense than most standard hard seltzers, which typically fall in the 90-110 calorie range.
Comparison Table: Simply Spiked vs. Typical Hard Seltzer
| Nutritional Fact (12oz can) | Simply Spiked Signature Lemonade | Typical Hard Seltzer | Low-Sugar/Low-Calorie Hard Seltzer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~170 | ~100 | ~90 |
| Total Sugars | ~18g | <2g | 0g |
| Total Carbs | ~19g | <3g | <1g |
| Primary Sweetener | Cane Sugar, Stevia | Fermented Sugar/Yeast | Artificial/Natural Zero-Calorie Sweeteners |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, juicy, tart | Light, effervescent | Very dry, subtle flavor |
The Role of Real Fruit Juice
Simply Spiked prides itself on using 5% real fruit juice, which is squeezed and then concentrated. This inclusion is a major contributor to both the flavor and the sugar content. Real fruit juice naturally contains its own sugars, which add to the overall count alongside the added cane sugar. For example, Simply Spiked's Signature Lemonade is made with real lemon juice from concentrate, providing an authentic sweet-tart taste that can't be replicated with artificial flavors alone. The use of real fruit juice also makes Simply Spiked a different category of beverage than many hard seltzers, which often rely on flavorings and extracts rather than juice.
Conclusion: Navigating the Sweetness of Simply Spiked
In summary, Simply Spiked is not a low-sugar or zero-sugar alcoholic beverage. The inclusion of both cane sugar and real fruit juice concentrates means that each can contains a significant amount of sugar and carbohydrates. While this makes for a delicious, full-flavored drink, it's important for consumers to be aware of the nutritional implications, particularly concerning sugar and calorie intake. The use of a blend of sweeteners, including Stevia extract, offers a nuanced approach to sweetness but doesn't eliminate the primary sugar content. For those seeking a beverage that tastes like a sweet, juicy hard lemonade, Simply Spiked delivers, but for those counting carbs or sugar, it's a detail to be mindful of. For more information on the brand's products, you can visit the official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sugar content in Simply Spiked?
Each 12-ounce can of Simply Spiked Signature Lemonade contains 18 grams of sugar. The sugar content is consistent across most standard flavors.
Does Simply Spiked use artificial sweeteners?
Yes, in addition to cane sugar, Simply Spiked uses Stevia extract, a natural zero-calorie sweetener, to help manage the overall sweetness and balance the flavor profile.
How many carbohydrates are in a can of Simply Spiked?
A 12-ounce can of Simply Spiked Signature Lemonade contains 19 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these come from the sugar in the drink.
Is Simply Spiked high in calories?
Compared to many other hard seltzers, Simply Spiked is relatively higher in calories. A 12-ounce can of Signature Lemonade has 170 calories, largely due to its sugar and alcohol content.
Is Simply Spiked made with real fruit juice?
Yes, Simply Spiked beverages are made with 5% real fruit juice, which is squeezed and then concentrated. This adds to the authentic and juicy fruit flavor.
Is Simply Spiked a hard seltzer?
While it is a flavored alcoholic beverage, Simply Spiked is typically classified as a "hard lemonade" or "flavored malt beverage" rather than a hard seltzer, primarily because of its higher sugar and real fruit juice content.
Do the different Simply Spiked flavors have the same amount of sugar?
The sugar content is generally very similar across the different Simply Spiked 5% ABV flavors, such as the lemonades and limeades. Minor variations may occur based on the fruit concentrates used.
How does Simply Spiked's sugar compare to other spiked drinks?
Simply Spiked contains significantly more sugar than many traditional hard seltzers, which often have 2 grams of sugar or less. It is closer in sugar content to many hard iced teas and other pre-mixed cocktails.
