Bubly has become a popular flavored sparkling water brand, known for its fun packaging and promise of zero calories and zero sweeteners. Consumers often want to know exactly what is in their drink. While the standard product line is simple, variations like Bubly Bounce and Bubly Burst have different ingredients.
The Core Ingredients of Standard Bubly
Standard Bubly sparkling water contains only two ingredients: carbonated water and natural flavor. This minimal list appeals to those seeking alternatives to sugary drinks.
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Carbonated Water: This is water infused with carbon dioxide gas, creating the fizz. Standard Bubly has no added sodium or minerals, unlike some other carbonated drinks.
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Natural Flavor: This provides Bubly's taste. The FDA defines "natural flavors" as flavorings from sources like fruits, vegetables, or herbs. For sparkling water, these are often concentrated fruit essences. They add taste without calories or sugar.
Other Bubly Product Lines
PepsiCo offers variations with different ingredients. These include:
- Bubly Bounce: This line adds 35 mg of caffeine to the standard ingredients.
- Bubly Burst: A sweetened beverage with fruit juice concentrate, citric acid, and artificial sweeteners like acesulfame potassium and sucralose, plus preservatives. It contains 10 calories and 1 gram of sugar per bottle.
Comparing Bubly, Bubly Burst, and LaCroix
Here's how standard Bubly compares to Bubly Burst and a competitor, LaCroix.
| Feature | Standard Bubly | Bubly Burst | LaCroix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Carbonated Water, Natural Flavor | Carbonated Water, Natural Flavor, Sweeteners, Fruit Juice Concentrate | Carbonated Water, Natural Flavor (Essence Oils) |
| Sweeteners | None | Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose | None |
| Calories | 0 | 10 per bottle | 0 |
| Sugar | 0 grams | <1 gram (from juice concentrate) | 0 grams |
| Caffeine | No | No (other than 'Bubly Bounce') | No |
| Primary Goal | Calorie-free, unsweetened flavor | Bolder, sweetened fruit flavor | Calorie-free, unsweetened flavor |
Health Considerations
Standard Bubly is generally a healthy, hydrating option due to its zero calories and sugar. However, consider these points:
- Acidity: Carbonated drinks are slightly acidic, which could minimally affect tooth enamel compared to sugary sodas. Some dentists suggest drinking with meals or a straw. For more details on sparkling water's dental effects, Healthline provides further information.
- Bloating: The carbonation can cause bloating or gas in some people. Monitor intake if you have a sensitive stomach or conditions like IBS.
- Flavoring Compounds: Natural flavors are complex. Some prefer to avoid additives and use fresh fruit to flavor water. For more information on natural flavors, see the article on Real Simple.
Conclusion
Standard Bubly sparkling water has simple ingredients: carbonated water and natural flavor, offering a calorie and sugar-free drink. Different Bubly lines, like Bubly Burst, contain additional ingredients, including sweeteners. Always check the label to understand the specific components of the Bubly product you choose.
