Understanding 'Healthy' in the Context of Alcohol Seltzers
When we talk about the 'healthiest' alcohol seltzer, it's crucial to understand that we are referring to the most nutritionally responsible choice among alcoholic beverages, not a health food. The key factors to consider are:
- Low Calories: The primary appeal for many consumers is the lower calorie count compared to beer or sugary cocktails. A typical hard seltzer has around 90–110 calories per 12-ounce can.
- Minimal Sugar: High sugar intake has been linked to numerous health issues. The best seltzers contain zero grams of added sugar, relying on fermented sugar or natural fruit for a hint of flavor.
- Low Carbohydrates: Most hard seltzers are low in carbs, making them a popular choice for those on ketogenic or other low-carb diets.
- Clean Ingredients: Brands that use real fruit juice or natural flavors, along with organic ingredients, are often viewed as a 'cleaner' option.
- Gluten-Free: The majority of hard seltzers are gluten-free, brewed from fermented cane sugar instead of grains.
The Best Hard Seltzers for Health-Conscious Drinkers
Choosing the best hard seltzer often comes down to scrutinizing the nutritional label. Several brands consistently rank well for minimal ingredients and low-calorie counts.
- Bon & Viv: Noted for having 90 calories, 2g of carbs, and 0g of sugar per can, and made with simple ingredients.
- High Noon: Known for using real vodka and real fruit juice, with around 100 calories per can. Some flavors may contain more sugar than fermented options.
- TRULY: A popular option with 100 calories, 1g of sugar, and 2g of carbs. They offer a wide variety of flavors.
- Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer: An organic option with 90 calories and 0g of sugar per can, appealing to those seeking organic ingredients.
- Spindrift Spiked: Made with real squeezed fruit and often lauded for its fresh flavor profile. It may have slightly more calories and carbs than others due to the fruit juice.
Hard Seltzer Nutritional Comparison Table
| Brand | Calories (12oz) | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Ingredients | Gluten-Free | ABV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bon & Viv | 90 | 2 | 0 | Purified water, cane sugar, champagne yeast, natural flavors | Yes | ~4.5% |
| High Noon | 100 | 2-3 | 2-3 | Real vodka, real fruit juice, sparkling water | Yes | 4.5% |
| Truly | 100 | 2 | 1 | Filtered water, fermented cane sugar, natural flavor | Yes | 5% |
| Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer | 90 | 0 | 0 | Organic cold-fermented sugar, organic natural flavors | Yes | ~4% |
| White Claw | 100 | 2 | 2 | Purified water, fermented cane sugar, natural flavors | Yes | 5% |
| Spindrift Spiked | ~96 | 2 | 0 | Sparkling water, real fruit juice, alcohol from cane sugar | Yes | 4% |
Beyond the Label: What Makes a Difference
While calories and sugar are key metrics, other factors influence a hard seltzer's 'healthiness':
- Natural vs. Artificial Flavors: Some brands use artificial additives, while others like High Noon and Spindrift Spiked use real fruit, which can be a key differentiator for clean eaters.
- Organic Certification: For those who prioritize organic products to avoid pesticides, brands like Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer offer a clear advantage.
- Source of Alcohol: Most seltzers use fermented cane sugar, but some, like High Noon, use a vodka base. For many, this is a matter of taste and preference rather than health, but it's worth noting.
- Moderation is Key: All alcohol should be consumed in moderation. Regardless of the brand, alcohol is not a nutritious beverage and carries health risks. Hydrating with water between drinks is also essential.
Conclusion
The title of 'healthiest alcohol seltzer' is nuanced. For those seeking the lowest calories and zero sugar, Bon & Viv or Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer are excellent choices. If real fruit juice is a priority, Spindrift Spiked and High Noon stand out. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals, whether that means prioritizing lowest calories, lowest sugar, or most natural ingredients. Drinking any alcohol responsibly and in moderation remains the most important consideration for your health.
For additional health considerations, consult resources like the CDC or the National Cancer Institute on alcohol's risks.
What is the healthiest hard seltzer? A breakdown of your best options.
- Zero sugar options: For those on strict no-sugar diets, Bon & Viv and Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer are top contenders, clocking in at 0g of sugar per can.
- Real fruit juice: Spindrift Spiked and High Noon use real fruit juice, offering a more natural flavor profile, though they may have slightly higher (but still low) calorie counts.
- Lowest calorie: Bon & Viv and Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer tie for lowest calorie count among top brands, at just 90 calories per can.
- Moderation is key: No hard seltzer is a health drink. The most responsible choice is to consume any alcohol in moderation, regardless of nutritional profile.
- Check ingredients: The 'healthiest' choice also comes down to ingredient sourcing, with organic and natural options available for those who prioritize them.
FAQs
Q: Are hard seltzers actually healthy for you? A: No, hard seltzers are not inherently healthy. Like all alcohol, they provide empty calories and should be consumed in moderation. However, they can be a lower-calorie and lower-sugar alternative to other alcoholic beverages like beer or cocktails.
Q: Which hard seltzer has the lowest sugar? A: Brands like Bon & Viv and Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer typically have zero grams of sugar per can, making them the lowest sugar options among popular brands.
Q: What is the lowest calorie hard seltzer? A: Bon & Viv and Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer are often cited as the lowest calorie hard seltzers, with just 90 calories per 12-ounce can.
Q: Are hard seltzers gluten-free? A: Yes, most hard seltzers are gluten-free because they are typically made from fermented cane sugar, not grains like barley or wheat. Always check the label to be sure.
Q: Are organic hard seltzers healthier? A: Organic seltzers, like Michelob Ultra Organic, use ingredients that are grown and produced without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, which many people consider healthier. However, the alcohol content and empty calories remain.
Q: Is it better to drink hard seltzer than beer? A: For those watching calories, sugar, or carbs, hard seltzer is often a better choice than most traditional beers. A standard hard seltzer has fewer calories and carbs than an average beer, but light beer options can be comparable.
Q: What is a good natural hard seltzer? A: Brands like Spindrift Spiked are well-regarded for using real, squeezed fruit for their flavor, providing a more natural and fresh-tasting option.
