The question of whether True Lemon is sweetened can be confusing, as the manufacturer, True Citrus, offers a range of products with different formulas. The key is to differentiate between the original crystallized lemon packets and the various True Lemonade drink mixes. The original product is explicitly unsweetened, while the flavored mixes contain natural sweeteners.
The Unsweetened Original: True Lemon Crystal Packets
The flagship product, simply labeled as 'True Lemon', consists of small, single-serving packets of crystallized lemon powder. This product is designed to provide the flavor of a fresh lemon wedge without any mess or added ingredients.
These packets are made with only three simple, non-GMO ingredients: citric acid, lemon oil, and lemon juice. As a result, they offer the following nutritional profile per packet:
- 0 calories
- 0g sugar
- 0g carbohydrates
This makes the original True Lemon an excellent, sugar-free way to enhance plain water or add a zesty flavor to recipes, baked goods, and teas. Its purity is one of its most appealing features for those monitoring their sugar intake or following specific diets like Keto and Paleo.
The Sweetened Options: True Lemonade Drink Mixes
In contrast to the original, the True Lemonade drink mixes are intended to be a sweet, low-calorie beverage. These are found in different flavors, such as Original Lemonade, Raspberry Lemonade, and Peach Lemonade.
Rather than using artificial sweeteners, which the company avoids, these mixes achieve their sweet flavor using a combination of Stevia leaf extract and a small amount of cane sugar. This blend is used to balance the flavor, as Stevia alone can sometimes have a bitter aftertaste. A single serving of True Lemonade contains:
- 10 calories
- 1g sugar
These products are marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional soda and juice, offering a delicious, flavorful beverage with significantly fewer calories and sugar.
True Lemon vs. True Lemonade: A Comparison Table
To clarify the distinction, here is a breakdown of the key differences between the original crystallized product and the sweetened lemonade mixes.
| Feature | True Lemon (Original) | True Lemonade (Flavored Mixes) |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | None (unsweetened) | Stevia leaf extract and cane sugar |
| Calories | 0 calories per packet | 10 calories per stick packet |
| Sugar Content | 0g per packet | 1g per stick packet |
| Usage | Flavor enhancer for water, recipes, and teas | Sweetened beverage for hydration |
| Form | Crystallized powder | Powdered drink mix |
Deciding on the Right Product for Your Needs
Choosing between the unsweetened True Lemon and the sweetened True Lemonade depends entirely on your intended use and dietary preferences. For those seeking pure, unadulterated lemon flavor for cooking, baking, or simply adding a hint of citrus to water without any sugar, the original crystallized packets are the ideal choice. Their simple ingredient list and zero-calorie count make them a versatile pantry staple.
If you prefer a sweet, refreshing drink, the True Lemonade mixes are the better option. They provide a low-calorie, naturally sweetened alternative to high-sugar beverages like soda and traditional lemonade. Just be sure to check the packaging to confirm you are purchasing the product that meets your needs.
Conclusion
In summary, the statement "Is True Lemon sweetened?" cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. The True Citrus brand has a line of unsweetened, zero-calorie products like the original True Lemon, and a separate line of sweetened, low-calorie products, such as True Lemonade. By checking the label and understanding the difference between the two product types, consumers can easily choose the right option for their hydration and culinary needs. For more details on the full product lineup, check the official website's FAQ page.
