Understanding the Ingredients in Good Good Apricot Jam
Good Good's signature apricot jam is a departure from traditional preserves, which often contain more added sugar than fruit. The company’s formula focuses on real fruit and natural, plant-based sweeteners to appeal to those on keto, vegan, and diabetic diets. By breaking down each component, we can better understand how this low-calorie jam achieves its taste and texture.
The Core Components and Their Roles
The ingredient list for Good Good apricot jam is straightforward and purposefully limited to provide a cleaner nutritional profile. Each component plays a specific role in creating the final product.
- Apricots (56%): This is the star ingredient and the source of the jam's primary flavor. With a high fruit content, the product delivers an authentic, fruity taste. Apricots naturally contain vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and a modest amount of fiber.
- Water: Used to help create the proper consistency and texture during the cooking process.
- Sweeteners (Erythritol, Steviol Glycosides): Instead of refined sugar, Good Good uses a blend of natural, low-calorie sweeteners. Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in some fruits, and it is almost non-caloric and does not affect blood sugar. Steviol glycosides are derived from the stevia plant and are many times sweeter than sugar. This combination provides sweetness without the typical sugar rush.
- Gelling Agent (Pectin): Pectin is a naturally occurring carbohydrate found in the cell walls of fruits. It is a crucial ingredient in jam-making, responsible for providing the jelly-like, thickened consistency. The addition of pectin allows the jam to set without the need for large amounts of sugar.
- Rowanberry Extract (Sorbus aucuparia L.): Rowanberry extract serves a dual purpose as both a natural preservative and a flavor enhancer. It provides a subtle, natural tartness that complements the apricot flavor.
- Lemon Powder: Lemon powder, along with citric acid, provides acidity. This not only balances the sweetness and brightens the apricot flavor but also aids in the gelling process when combined with pectin.
- Acid (Citric Acid): A common food additive derived from citrus fruits, citric acid is used to preserve the jam and add a fresh, tart flavor.
Good Good Jam vs. Traditional Apricot Jam
Comparing the ingredient list of Good Good jam with a typical, traditional apricot jam highlights the key differences that define each product. The primary distinction lies in the choice of sweetener and the subsequent nutritional impact.
| Feature | Good Good Apricot Jam | Traditional Apricot Jam |
|---|---|---|
| Apricot Content | High (56%) | Can vary, may contain added syrups |
| Sweetener | Erythritol and Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) | Granulated Sugar, Corn Syrup |
| Gelling Agent | Pectin | Pectin (often high-sugar variety) or natural pectin from fruit |
| Acidity | Citric Acid, Lemon Powder | Lemon Juice |
| Preservatives | Rowanberry Extract, Citric Acid | Sugar (acts as a preservative) |
| Added Sugars | None | High, often a primary ingredient |
| Carbohydrates | Lower overall, low net carbs due to sweeteners | High, primarily from sugar |
| Dietary Suitability | Keto, Vegan, Diabetic-friendly, Gluten-free | Typically not suitable for keto or low-sugar diets |
How This Recipe Impacts Your Diet
The choice of ingredients in Good Good apricot jam makes it accessible for a wider range of dietary needs than conventional jams. For those on a ketogenic diet, the absence of added sugar means a significantly lower net carbohydrate count, allowing them to enjoy a sweet spread without compromising their macros. Diabetics can also benefit, as the natural sweeteners do not cause the same blood sugar spikes as refined sugar. Vegans and those with gluten sensitivities can rest assured that the product's ingredients are plant-based and gluten-free.
Conclusion
Good Good apricot jam distinguishes itself with a clean, low-sugar ingredient list built around real fruit and natural sweeteners. Its reliance on apricots, water, erythritol, stevia, pectin, rowanberry extract, lemon powder, and citric acid delivers an authentic, fruity flavor and classic jam texture. By forgoing added sugars, the jam provides a versatile and delicious alternative for individuals managing their sugar intake or following specific dietary guidelines, such as keto, vegan, or diabetic diets. Understanding what makes up this unique product helps consumers make informed choices for their health and wellness needs.
For more detailed nutritional information and ingredient analysis, you can also consult resources like the Open Food Facts page for this product, which provides an in-depth breakdown of ingredients and additives.
