Core ingredients of Mott's Active
Mott's Active is a hydrating juice beverage formulated as a sports drink alternative for children. The ingredients are centered around a blend of juices and naturally sourced elements to aid in hydration and flavor. For the Blastin' Berry flavor, the main components include water, apple juice concentrate, coconut water concentrate, and blueberry juice concentrate. The Watermelon Burst flavor replaces the blueberry juice with clarified watermelon juice concentrate.
Main components:
- Water: The primary base for the beverage, used for hydration.
- Apple Juice, Coconut Water, and Fruit Concentrates: These ingredients provide the bulk of the flavor and natural sugars. Coconut water naturally contains electrolytes, aiding in hydration.
- Natural Flavors: These are complex mixtures of chemicals derived from natural sources, such as fruits, used to enhance the drink's taste and aroma.
- Sea Salt: A source of naturally sourced electrolytes, which helps the body maintain proper fluid balance.
- Stevia Leaf Extract: This is a low-calorie, plant-derived sweetener used to enhance sweetness without adding sugar or extra calories.
- Malic Acid and Citric Acid: These are organic acids found naturally in fruits and are used as flavor enhancers and preservatives.
- Vegetable and Fruit Juice Concentrate (Color): This is used to achieve the beverage's vibrant coloring naturally, without artificial dyes.
Why Mott's Active differs from regular juice
Mott's Active is specifically designed for hydration in active kids, distinguishing itself from standard fruit juices. The inclusion of coconut water and sea salt provides a source of natural electrolytes, which are beneficial for replenishing fluids lost during exercise or play. Traditional 100% fruit juices, while containing some vitamins and minerals, generally do not have added electrolytes and can be higher in natural sugar content. By using Stevia leaf extract, Mott's Active is able to offer a flavorful drink with no added sugar, making it a healthier alternative to sugary sports drinks.
Nutritional comparison: Mott's Active vs. Mott's 100% Juice
| Feature | Mott's Active (e.g., Blastin' Berry) | Mott's 100% Juice (Apple) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Hydration for active kids | General-purpose fruit juice |
| Electrolytes | Contains naturally sourced electrolytes (from coconut water and sea salt) | Not a primary feature; some naturally occurring electrolytes present |
| Added Sugar | No added sugar | Contains natural sugars from 100% fruit juice |
| Flavor | Blastin' Berry, Watermelon Burst | Classic Apple, Fruit Punch, etc. |
| Calories (per 8oz) | 60 calories | Varies by juice; often higher |
| Core Ingredients | Water, juice concentrates, coconut water, sea salt, Stevia | 100% fruit juice from concentrate |
| Artificial Sweeteners | None | None |
The role of key functional ingredients
Beyond just flavor and hydration, several ingredients in Mott's Active serve specific purposes that enhance its appeal as a healthier beverage choice for children. These include the natural sweeteners, colorants, and flavorings.
- Stevia Leaf Extract: This natural, calorie-free sweetener provides sweetness without impacting blood sugar levels, a significant benefit over high-fructose corn syrup or other added sugars found in many competing products. For parents concerned about excessive sugar consumption, especially in drinks, Stevia offers a favorable alternative.
- Coconut Water: Known for its natural electrolyte content, coconut water is a key component for hydration. It provides potassium and other minerals that help replenish what is lost during physical activity.
- Natural Flavors and Colors: The use of natural flavors and vegetable/fruit juice concentrates for coloring means the beverage avoids artificial additives that some consumers prefer to avoid. This aligns with a broader trend toward more 'clean label' products.
List of additives and their functions
- Malic Acid: An organic acid that contributes to the tart flavor profile of the juice blend.
- Citric Acid: A common food additive derived from citrus fruits, functioning as both a preservative and a flavor enhancer.
- Sea Salt: While providing electrolytes, it also helps to balance the flavors in the beverage.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in Mott's Active are carefully selected to provide a hydrating, flavorful beverage for kids that avoids the common pitfalls of sugary sports drinks. The formula relies on a foundation of water, real fruit juice concentrates, and coconut water, enhanced by naturally sourced electrolytes from coconut water and sea salt. By utilizing Stevia leaf extract for sweetness, Mott's delivers a product with no added sugar, no artificial flavors, and no artificial sweeteners. This makes it a compelling option for parents seeking a healthier hydration choice for their active children. The beverage is a distinct alternative to both standard fruit juice and traditional sports drinks, occupying a specific niche for electrolyte replenishment without the excess sugar. For more information on the benefits of coconut water and electrolytes for hydration, consider exploring resources from reputable health organizations.
Optional Outbound Link Example: Cleveland Clinic on Plant Sterols
