What are the ingredients in brisk blueberry pomegranate?

December 20, 2025 •

2 min read

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate iced tea is classified as an ultra-processed food with several ingredients of concern. A closer look at what are the ingredients in Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate reveals a blend of water, high fructose corn syrup, green tea powder, and numerous additives.

Quick Summary

This article details the specific ingredients found in Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate iced tea, including its sugar source, preservatives, and artificial coloring. It also covers the tea's nutritional profile and contrasts it with other beverages.

Key Points

High Fructose Corn Syrup: The primary sweetener in Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate, contributing significantly to its sugar content and calories.
Artificial Sweeteners: Contains sucralose and acesulfame potassium to boost sweetness without adding calories.
Synthetic Dyes: The drink's vibrant color comes from artificial color additives, specifically Red 40 and Blue 1, which the EWG has flagged as being of concern.
Preservatives: A variety of additives like potassium sorbate, sodium polyphosphates, and calcium disodium EDTA are used to preserve freshness and protect flavor.
Ultra-Processed: Classified as an ultra-processed food, linked by some studies to a higher risk of various health problems.
No Fruit Juice: Despite the fruity flavor, the product uses 'Natural Flavor' and dyes, not actual fruit juice, for its taste and color.

Core Ingredients of Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate

Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate is made with water and green tea powder as its base. This base is combined with other ingredients to create the final product. Using powdered tea is a common practice in ready-to-drink iced teas for consistency and cost.

Sweeteners and Flavoring

The sweet taste of Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate primarily comes from high fructose corn syrup. To enhance sweetness without adding more calories, it also includes artificial sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium. The blueberry and pomegranate flavors are provided by 'Natural Flavor,' a blend derived from natural sources.

Additives and Preservatives

The beverage contains several additives to maintain its quality and freshness:

Sodium polyphosphates: Protects flavor.
Potassium sorbate: Prevents mold and yeast growth.
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C): Acts as an antioxidant to protect flavor.
Calcium disodium EDTA: Another flavor protector.
Citric acid and Phosphoric acid: Provide tartness and act as preservatives.

The Role of Artificial Colors

The color is achieved through artificial food dyes, Blue 1 and Red 40. Both are considered additives of concern by the EWG.

Understanding the Texture and Stability Agents

Gum Arabic and Xanthan Gum are used as thickening and emulsifying agents for texture and stability. Glycerol ester of rosin also acts as a stabilizer.

Comparison: Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate vs. Natural Alternatives

A comparison with a 100% pomegranate blueberry juice highlights the differences in composition and processing.


Feature	Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate	100% Pomegranate Blueberry Juice
Sweeteners	High Fructose Corn Syrup, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium	Natural fruit sugars from concentrate
Coloring	Artificial dyes: Red 40, Blue 1	Natural juice color
Preservatives	Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Polyphosphates, Citric Acid, etc.	Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate (can vary by brand)
Processing Level	Ultra-processed	Minimally processed (from concentrate)
Key Flavor Source	"Natural Flavor" blend	100% fruit juice from concentrate

Potential Health Implications of the Ingredients

The EWG notes concerns regarding Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate's ultra-processed nature. High consumption of such foods has been linked to health issues including heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. The high sugar content from high fructose corn syrup can contribute to excess calories. Some studies suggest low-calorie sweeteners may not aid weight loss and could promote a preference for sweetness. Red 40 and Blue 1 may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Conclusion

Examining what are the ingredients in Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate reveals it is an ultra-processed drink made with water, high fructose corn syrup, green tea powder, and numerous chemical additives for flavor, color, and preservation. While providing a sweet, convenient taste, it contains artificial components and is linked to potential health concerns due to its processed nature. Natural alternatives like 100% fruit juice or fresh tea are different options. The full ingredient list helps consumers make informed choices. The Environmental Working Group offers resources on ultra-processed foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Brisk Blueberry Pomegranate iced tea lists high fructose corn syrup as one of its primary ingredients, contributing the bulk of its sugar content.

Yes, the drink contains artificial food dyes, specifically Red 40 and Blue 1, to achieve its vibrant color.

No, the fruity flavor is derived from 'Natural Flavor' and coloring additives, not from actual blueberry or pomegranate juice.

Key preservatives include potassium sorbate, sodium polyphosphates, and ascorbic acid, which are used to maintain flavor and freshness.

Yes, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), the product is classified as an ultra-processed food.

Brisk is an ultra-processed beverage using high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and dyes, while natural iced teas typically use fewer, less-processed ingredients and natural sweeteners.

Yes, it contains green tea powder, which provides a small amount of caffeine. However, Brisk does not specify the exact caffeine content on its labels.