Core Ingredients in Classic Outshine Pops
For many of Outshine's standard fruit flavors, like strawberry, the ingredient list is quite straightforward. The primary components are water, real fruit, and cane sugar. This is supplemented by a few other ingredients that enhance the flavor, color, and texture.
Fruit and Fruit Juice Concentrates
At the heart of the product is the use of real fruit, often in the form of a puree or juice from concentrate. For example, a mango bar contains mango puree and mango juice from concentrate, while a lime bar uses lime juice concentrate and lime pulp. This focus on real fruit is a key part of the brand's marketing.
Sweeteners
The type of sweetener in an Outshine pop depends on whether it's a standard bar or a "no sugar added" variety. Standard versions, like the strawberry or mango, use cane sugar to provide their sweetness. However, the "No Sugar Added" line replaces traditional sugar with low-calorie sweeteners.
Stabilizers and Thickening Agents
To achieve the smooth texture and prevent ice crystal formation, Outshine uses several stabilizers. These include:
- Guar Gum: A natural fiber extracted from guar beans, it is used as a thickening agent.
- Carob Bean Gum: Also known as locust bean gum, this is another natural thickening agent that helps with texture.
Additional Ingredients
Outshine includes other components to finalize the product, such as:
- Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Added to act as a preservative, maintain color, and boost the nutritional content.
- Citric Acid: A natural acid used for flavoring and to enhance tartness.
- Natural Flavors and Colors: These are used to provide a consistent taste and appearance. The colors are derived from natural sources, such as beet juice or turmeric oleoresin.
No Sugar Added vs. Standard Outshine Pops
While the base of water and real fruit remains similar, the no-sugar-added and standard versions of Outshine pops differ significantly in their sweetening agents. This has a direct impact on the calorie count and nutritional profile.
A Tale of Two Sweeteners
The “No Sugar Added” Outshine bars, particularly in flavors like strawberry and tangerine, replace cane sugar with a blend of low-calorie sweeteners. This allows them to offer a sweet taste without the sugar content.
Comparison Table: Standard vs. No Sugar Added Strawberry Pops
| Feature | Standard Strawberry Pop | No Sugar Added Strawberry Pop |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweetener | Cane Sugar | Sorbitol, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium |
| Typical Calories | 60–70 calories per bar | 25 calories per bar |
| Texture Additives | Guar Gum, Carob Bean Gum | Guar Gum, Carob Bean Gum, Maltodextrin, Polydextrose |
| Sweetness Source | Added sugar and fruit's natural sugar | Non-nutritive sweeteners |
| Potential Digestibility | May be easier on the digestive system for some. | Sorbitol can cause a laxative effect in sensitive individuals. |
Ingredients in Creamy Outshine Bars
For Outshine's "Creamy" fruit and cream bars, such as creamy coconut or creamy strawberry, the ingredient list shifts to include dairy products. The creamy coconut bar, for example, contains skim milk, coconut cream, coconut, and cream, in addition to stabilizers and natural flavors. The creamy strawberry bar includes skim milk, strawberries, cream, and buttermilk. This makes them an unsuitable choice for those on a dairy-free or vegan diet, unlike many of their fruit-only counterparts.
The Role of Gums and Acids
Beyond the main fruit and sweetener components, Outshine uses food-grade gums and acids that perform critical functions in the final product. Guar and carob bean gums prevent the formation of large ice crystals, ensuring a smooth, consistent texture throughout the pop. Citric acid brightens the flavor, balancing the sweetness and adding a tangy note. Ascorbic acid, or Vitamin C, serves a dual purpose as both a nutritional supplement and a natural preservative, helping to maintain the color and freshness of the pops.
Conclusion
While Outshine pops are generally made with real fruit, their ingredients vary significantly across different product lines. The standard fruit bars rely on cane sugar, while the "no sugar added" versions use low-calorie sweeteners. "Creamy" varieties incorporate dairy for a richer texture. All share a common base of fruit, water, and natural stabilizers. Ultimately, checking the specific product's nutrition label is the best way to understand the full ingredient list for your chosen flavor.
For more information on common food additives and their effects, you can visit the Environmental Working Group's website.
