Crush Singles to Go offer a convenient, low-calorie way to add a burst of fruit flavor to plain water. Since these packets contain zero sugar, the flavor profile is achieved through a mix of various food-grade additives. The precise ingredient list can vary slightly depending on the specific flavor, the variety pack, and the version of the product, such as the powder mix versus the liquid enhancer. For most powdered mixes, however, there is a consistent core set of ingredients that serve specific functions in taste, texture, and appearance. Understanding these ingredients provides insight into how the product is formulated.
Core Ingredients in Crush Singles to Go
Sweeteners
As sugar-free products, Crush Singles to Go rely on high-intensity artificial sweeteners to provide their sweet taste without calories. Two of the most commonly used artificial sweeteners found in these products are Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium.
- Aspartame: A low-calorie sweetener used in many sugar-free products. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
- Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K): A calorie-free sweetener often combined with others like Aspartame or Sucralose to improve the sweetness profile. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
- Sucralose: Another calorie-free sweetener present in some flavors, like Orange and Strawberry. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
Flavor and Acidity
Citric acid is a primary ingredient for acidity and acts as a preservative. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
- Citric Acid: Provides a tart taste, balancing the sweetness and mimicking fruit acidity. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
- Malic Acid and Tartaric Acid: Found in certain flavors like Grape, these contribute additional tartness. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
- Natural and Artificial Flavors: These compounds are used to replicate or enhance the specific fruit taste of each flavor variety. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
Coloring and Bulking Agents
Maltodextrin serves as a bulking agent, while artificial colors provide visual appeal. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
- Maltodextrin: A polysaccharide that helps disperse flavor and color evenly and adds substance. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}
- Artificial Color (FD&C Dyes): Synthetic dyes like Yellow 5, Red 40, and Blue 1 create the distinct colors for different flavors. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz} Concerns about some of these additives have been noted by organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
Ingredient Comparison for Popular Flavors
A comparison of ingredients in popular Crush Singles to Go flavors can be found on {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz}.
Understanding the Role of Key Additives
Sodium citrate helps regulate acidity and balances sweetness and acidity. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20748547-crush-strawberry-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-variety-pack-0-5-oz} Anticaking agents like silicon dioxide and magnesium oxide prevent clumping, ensuring smooth dissolution. These additives are crucial for the product's quality and usability.
Being aware of the additives in Crush Singles to Go can help consumers make informed choices, particularly those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities. Resources like the Environmental Working Group can provide further information on food additives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what are the ingredients in Crush Singles to Go? They consist of a blend of food additives, including citric acid, artificial sweeteners like Aspartame, Sucralose, and Acesulfame Potassium, and various natural and artificial flavorings and colors. The specific composition varies by flavor, but the goal is to create a low-calorie, sugar-free, and flavorful drink. Understanding these ingredients allows consumers to determine if the product aligns with their dietary needs and preferences. {Link: instacart.com https://www.instacart.com/products/20744026-crush-grape-singles-to-go-sugar-free-drink-mix-0-5-oz}.