For many, a glass of cold lemonade is the quintessential summer refreshment. Simply Beverages offers two popular options: Simply Lemonade and Simply Light Lemonade. While they share a similar name and base flavor, their ingredient makeup and nutritional information are quite different. These differences are critical for consumers making choices based on diet, taste preferences, or health goals.
The Core Ingredients: Sugar vs. Stevia
The most significant distinction between the two beverages lies in their sweeteners. This single change drives the major nutritional and flavor differences. Simply Lemonade uses cane sugar as its primary sweetener, combined with pure filtered water, lemon juice, and natural flavors. The result is a classic, sweet, and tangy taste that most associate with traditional lemonade.
In contrast, Simply Light Lemonade uses a blend of sugar and stevia leaf extract. Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. By partially replacing cane sugar with stevia, Simply Light can achieve a sweet taste with a fraction of the sugar and calories. This substitution is the cornerstone of its "light" designation and is a key factor for anyone watching their sugar intake.
Nutritional and Calorie Differences
The choice of sweetener has a direct and dramatic effect on the nutritional content of the two drinks. For an 8 fl oz serving, the calorie and sugar counts differ significantly, making Simply Light a much lighter option. This is a primary selling point for the lighter version.
| Feature | Simply Lemonade (8 fl oz) | Simply Light Lemonade (8 fl oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 120 calories | Approximately 25 calories |
| Total Sugar | Approximately 28g | Approximately 5g |
| Sugar Source | Cane Sugar | Cane Sugar & Stevia Leaf Extract |
As the table shows, Simply Light contains 75% fewer calories and sugar than the regular version. This makes it a compelling option for those on calorie-restricted diets or simply trying to reduce their overall sugar consumption.
Taste Profile: Sweetness and Aftertaste
Beyond the numbers, the taste experience is what ultimately drives consumer preference. The classic Simply Lemonade, with its high cane sugar content, offers a full-bodied sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemon juice. It has a smooth, rounded flavor that is familiar and widely appealing. Some reviewers describe the taste as a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and refreshing, reminiscent of homemade lemonade.
Simply Light Lemonade's taste profile is different due to the stevia. While many people enjoy the light and refreshing flavor, some consumers note a distinct aftertaste associated with stevia-sweetened products. This can be perceived as an artificial or slightly bitter note, especially for those sensitive to sugar substitutes. For many, however, the lighter sweetness and lower calorie count outweigh any potential aftertaste concerns. The perception of this aftertaste varies significantly among individuals, and it is something to consider when deciding which to purchase.
Which One Is Right For You?
Choosing between Simply Lemonade and Simply Light depends on your personal priorities. If you are a fan of the traditional, full-sugar lemonade taste and are not concerned about calories or sugar intake, the original Simply Lemonade is likely your best bet. Its balanced sweetness and classic flavor are a favorite for many.
On the other hand, if you are counting calories, monitoring your sugar intake, or have a health-related reason to reduce sugar, Simply Light is the clear winner. It offers a low-calorie alternative while still delivering a prominent, refreshing lemon flavor. For those new to stevia-sweetened products, it might be worth trying a single serving first to see if you are bothered by the aftertaste.
Other Factors to Consider
- Ingredients: Both products are known for their simple, "not from concentrate" ingredients. This makes them stand out from other brands that use high-fructose corn syrup or other less natural-sounding ingredients.
- Versatility: The original Simply Lemonade is excellent for classic refreshment or mixing in cocktails. Simply Light can also be used in mixed drinks or as a base for mocktails for a lower-calorie option.
- Availability: Both products are widely available in most grocery stores across North America, making them easy to find whenever you need a refreshing drink.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal taste and nutritional goals. The difference between Simply Lemonade and Simply Light Lemonade is defined by the type and amount of sweetener used. Simply Lemonade is the classic, full-sugar option, while Simply Light is the low-sugar, low-calorie alternative sweetened with stevia. Both offer a high-quality, real lemon juice experience, but their paths diverge dramatically when it comes to nutrition and the resulting sweetness profile. A simple taste test may be the best way to determine which refreshing option is perfect for you. For a deeper look at the Simply product line, visit the Coca-Cola website.
