Fit and Active Peach Iced Tea is a popular, low-calorie drink mix available at Aldi, offering a quick and easy way to prepare a refreshing beverage. Unlike traditional iced tea made with brewed tea leaves and sugar, this powdered mix relies on a combination of processed ingredients to achieve its flavor, sweetness, and color. For those curious about the composition of their low-calorie drink, a closer look at the ingredient list is necessary.
Core Ingredients of the Drink Mix
The ingredient list for Fit and Active peach iced tea reveals several key components that form the base of the beverage. These are listed first, indicating they make up the largest portion of the powder.
- Citric Acid: This is a common food additive that provides a tart or sour flavor, similar to lemon juice. In drink mixes, it serves to enhance the overall fruity taste and provides a refreshing sharpness.
- Maltodextrin: A carbohydrate derived from starch, maltodextrin acts as a bulking agent and carrier for the flavors. It is easily digestible and helps to evenly distribute the powdered ingredients when mixed with water.
- Instant Tea: As the name suggests, this is a powdered form of tea. It provides the characteristic tea flavor and color to the beverage. The concentration of instant tea can vary among different tea mixes.
- Aspartame: This is a high-intensity, non-nutritive, artificial sweetener used to provide sweetness without adding calories. Because it is much sweeter than sugar, only a small amount is needed. Products containing aspartame carry a warning for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), as it contains phenylalanine.
Additives and Lesser-Known Components
The ingredient list also includes several items that are present in smaller quantities, specifically listed as "contains less than 2%". These additives serve various purposes, from coloring to anti-caking.
Sweeteners and Flavoring
- Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K): Often used in conjunction with aspartame, acesulfame potassium is another non-caloric artificial sweetener. The combination of sweeteners can create a more balanced flavor profile and mask any aftertaste one might have on its own.
- Malic Acid: Similar to citric acid, malic acid adds a tart, apple-like flavor to the drink, contributing to its overall fruitiness.
- Natural Flavors / Artificial Flavors: These are responsible for the specific peach taste. The distinction can vary, with some versions listing "natural flavors" and others "artificial flavors," indicating potential formulation differences.
Coloring Agents
- Fruit and Vegetable Juice Concentrate (for color): Used to give the drink mix a visually appealing color. This is a common practice for providing a natural-looking tint without relying solely on synthetic dyes.
- Beta Carotene (for color): This is a natural pigment found in plants, which adds a yellowish-orange color. It is often used to standardize the product's appearance.
Functional Additives
- Magnesium Oxide: This is an anti-caking agent that helps prevent the powdered mix from clumping together, ensuring it mixes smoothly in water.
- Calcium Silicate: Another anti-caking agent, it helps the powder remain free-flowing and prevents moisture from causing it to harden.
- Calcium Phosphate: A mineral salt that can serve as an anti-caking agent or as a nutrient fortifier.
Comparison with Other Peach Iced Tea Mixes
| Feature | Fit and Active Peach Iced Tea Mix | Crystal Light Peach Iced Tea Mix | Traditional Peach Iced Tea (Homemade) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium | Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium, Sugar (trivial amount) | Sugar, Honey, or other natural sweeteners |
| Calorie Count | ~5 calories per serving | ~5 calories per serving | Higher, depends on sweetener choice |
| Primary Ingredients | Citric Acid, Instant Tea, Maltodextrin | Citric Acid, Instant Tea, Maltodextrin | Brewed Tea, Real Peach Juice, Sweetener |
| Flavoring | Natural and/or Artificial Flavors | Natural and Artificial Flavors | Real fruit and natural extracts |
| Coloring | Fruit/Vegetable Juice, Beta Carotene | Caramel Color, Artificial Colors | Natural color from tea and fruit |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ingredients in Fit and Active peach iced tea combine instant tea, acidifiers, bulking agents, and a duo of artificial sweeteners to deliver a low-calorie, flavorful drink mix. The use of both aspartame and acesulfame potassium provides a sweet taste without the sugar content found in traditional alternatives. Additives like citric acid and malic acid enhance the fruity profile, while specific coloring agents ensure an appealing appearance. Anti-caking agents like calcium silicate and magnesium oxide are crucial for the product's powdery texture and ease of mixing. The presence of these specific ingredients confirms its nature as a processed, low-calorie convenience product, designed for quick consumption with controlled nutritional impact. For more information on food additives and their functions, consult authoritative sources such as the Food and Drug Administration's website at FDA info on food additives.
