What Exactly is a Fermented Malt Beverage?
Many people assume that hard ciders, hard lemonades, and other flavored malt beverages are made with a clear spirit like vodka, but this is a common misconception. In the case of Simply Spiked Cranberry, the alcoholic base is created through the fermentation of cane sugar. This process is more akin to how beer is made (using fermented malted barley) than how distilled spirits are produced. The resulting product is classified as a 'flavored malt beverage' (FMB) or sometimes colloquially as a 'sugar brew'.
This distinction is important from a regulatory and production standpoint. Partnering with Molson Coors, the Coca-Cola-owned Simply brand utilizes this method to create a lightly carbonated, ready-to-drink product that can be distributed through beer wholesalers. This allows the final beverage to have a flavor profile that is not dominated by the underlying alcohol taste, providing a smooth and juicy drinking experience, as advertised.
The Ingredients and Flavor Profile of Simply Spiked Cranberry
Taking a closer look at the label reveals the full picture of what you are consuming. The primary ingredients, beyond the fermented cane sugar-based alcohol, provide insight into both the flavor and nutritional content.
- Carbonated Water: The base liquid that gives the drink its fizziness.
- Alcohol: The core component providing the alcoholic content, derived from fermented cane sugar.
- Cane Sugar: Added for sweetness, contributing to the total calorie and sugar count.
- Cranberry Juice from Concentrate & Apple Juice from Concentrate: Provides the tart and fruity flavors, consistent with the Simply brand's juice heritage.
- Citric Acid, Natural Flavors, Sodium Citrate: Used to balance the tartness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Stevia Extract: A non-caloric sweetener used to control the total sugar content.
The combination of these ingredients results in a beverage that is both sweet and tart, with a fruity aroma. The use of real fruit juice from concentrate allows it to leverage the existing brand recognition of the non-alcoholic Simply juice line.
Nutritional Impact on a Health-Conscious Diet
When evaluating Simply Spiked Cranberry from a nutritional perspective, it's essential to remember that it is an alcoholic beverage, and as such, it offers little to no nutritional value outside of calories. These are often referred to as "empty calories." For a 12-ounce can, the calorie count is typically around 170, with 19 grams of carbohydrates and 18 grams of total sugars. For comparison, this is higher in calories and sugar than many leading hard seltzers, which often come in at around 100 calories and 2 grams of sugar.
For those on a diet, particularly one focused on limiting sugar or carbs, this can be a significant amount. Overconsumption of sugary alcoholic beverages can lead to weight gain and disrupt blood sugar levels. Additionally, alcohol itself is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration, even in a hydrating beverage like a spiked seltzer or malt beverage.
Comparing Simply Spiked Cranberry to Other Drinks
To put the nutritional content into context, let's compare Simply Spiked Cranberry with other common beverages. This table highlights how it stacks up against traditional choices.
| Feature | Simply Spiked Cranberry | Hard Seltzer (Typical) | Beer (Standard 12oz) | Plain Cranberry Juice (12oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Base | Fermented cane sugar | Fermented cane sugar | Fermented malted barley | N/A (Non-alcoholic) |
| Calories (approx.) | 170 | 90-100 | 150-200 | ~150 |
| Carbohydrates (approx.) | 19g | 1-2g | 13-15g | ~38g |
| Added Sugars | Yes (Cane Sugar) | Typically low/none | Low/none | Yes (often high) |
| ABV (Alcohol by Volume) | 5.0% | 5.0% | 4.2-5.0%+ | 0% |
| Key Difference | Higher sugar and calories than most seltzers | Low calorie and carb count | Higher calories and carbs than seltzers | High sugar, no alcohol |
This comparison shows that Simply Spiked Cranberry sits in a middle ground, offering a lighter option than a standard beer but with significantly more calories and sugar than a typical hard seltzer. The inclusion of real fruit juice concentrate and cane sugar is what primarily differentiates its nutritional profile from simpler hard seltzers.
Mindful Consumption for a Balanced Diet
For individuals incorporating alcoholic beverages into a mindful eating plan, here are a few tips to consider when enjoying a drink like Simply Spiked Cranberry:
- Prioritize Moderation: All health experts agree that excessive alcohol consumption is harmful. Sticking to recommended limits is the most important step for health.
- Read the Label: The calorie and sugar content are clearly listed on the packaging. Use this information to make an informed decision based on your dietary goals.
- Hydrate Strategically: For every alcoholic beverage, it is wise to drink a glass of water. This helps with hydration and can help reduce overall alcohol intake.
- Account for Calories: Remember that the calories from Simply Spiked Cranberry contribute to your total daily intake. Adjust your food choices accordingly to stay within your calorie budget.
- Consider Alternatives: If sugar and calories are a concern, a true hard seltzer or a light beer might be a better option. You could also create your own cocktail with a spirit and a sugar-free mixer.
Conclusion
In summary, the alcohol in Simply Spiked Cranberry is derived from the fermentation of cane sugar, making it a flavored malt beverage rather than a spirit-based drink. While its fruity flavor is derived from real juice concentrate and other natural flavors, it contains more sugar and calories than many modern hard seltzers. For anyone on a nutrition-focused diet, the key is to be mindful of its higher sugar and caloric content and practice moderation. Knowing the source of the alcohol and the overall nutritional profile empowers you to make informed choices that align with your health and diet goals.
Learn more about different types of alcoholic beverages and their nutritional content by exploring resources from health institutions like the National Institutes of Health.
