What is the healthiest spiked seltzer drink?

December 23, 2025 •

4 min read

While many view hard seltzer as a healthier alternative, experts emphasize that no alcoholic drink is truly nutritious and moderation is always key. However, by comparing factors like calories, sugar, and ingredient lists, it is possible to determine what is the healthiest spiked seltzer drink among the options available.

Quick Summary

This guide evaluates popular spiked seltzer brands based on nutritional content and ingredients. Discover which products feature the lowest calories and sugar, and learn what to look for when choosing a better-for-you alcoholic beverage.

Key Points

Low Calories & Zero Sugar: The healthiest spiked seltzers have minimal calories (often under 100) and zero grams of sugar, such as TRACES Hugo Spritz or Bon & Viv.
Read the Ingredients: Opt for seltzers with simple, transparent ingredients like real fruit juice or a distilled spirit base, rather than vague "natural flavors".
Compare to Other Drinks: Hard seltzers generally have fewer calories and carbs than regular beer and most cocktails, but are similar to light beer and spirits mixed with water.
Choose a Spirit Base: Seltzers with a vodka or tequila base and real juice, like Nutrl or Volley, can be a cleaner option than those fermented from cane sugar.
Moderation is Crucial: Regardless of the brand's nutritional profile, all alcohol should be consumed in moderation, as even low-calorie options provide empty calories and can lead to dehydration.
Homemade Offers Control: For the ultimate control over ingredients and sugar, consider making your own spiked seltzer with quality spirits and fresh ingredients.

Decoding the "Healthiest" Spiked Seltzer

In the world of alcohol, the term "healthy" is relative. Hard seltzers exploded in popularity largely due to their lighter profile compared to beer and cocktails. They are often low in calories, carbs, and sugar, and are usually gluten-free. But not all seltzers are created equal. To identify the healthiest options, you must look beyond the marketing and examine the details of the ingredients and nutritional facts.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing

To find a truly healthier spiked seltzer, look for these specific characteristics on the label:

Calories: Most mainstream seltzers hover around 100 calories per 12-ounce can, similar to a light beer. However, some brands offer options below this benchmark, with some as low as 80 or 90 calories.
Sugar Content: Residual sugar from the fermentation process and added sweeteners are major variables. The healthiest choices contain zero grams of sugar. Others may contain 1-2 grams. Avoid those with high sugar content or artificial sweeteners.
Simple, Natural Ingredients: A short ingredient list is usually a good sign. The base is typically fermented cane sugar, but some higher-end brands use organic ingredients, real fruit juice, or a distilled spirit base like vodka or tequila. This is preferable to ambiguous "natural flavors".
Organic Options: Brands like Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer offer a certified organic option, which may appeal to those concerned with pesticides or genetically modified ingredients.

Top Contenders for the Healthiest Spiked Seltzer

Several brands stand out for their commitment to clean ingredients and minimal calories. Here are some of the leaders in the healthier hard seltzer category:

TRACES Hugo Spritz: At just 80 calories and zero sugar, this elderflower, mint, and lime seltzer is a top contender for the lowest calorie option.
Bon & Viv: This brand offers 90-calorie, zero-sugar spiked seltzers made with purified water, champagne yeast, and natural fruit flavors.
Smirnoff Seltzer: With 90 calories and zero sugar, Smirnoff's variety pack options offer a low-carb choice without artificial sweeteners.
Nutrl Vodka Seltzer: Made with just vodka, seltzer water, and real fruit juice, Nutrl provides a clean, gluten-free option with no added sugar.
Lone River Ranch Water: This option is noted for its authentic, clean flavor profile with minimal sugar, carbs, and additives, giving it a natural taste.
Volley Spiked Seltzer: Made with 100% blue agave tequila, sparkling water, and organic juice, Volley is a premium, clean-ingredient choice.

Hard Seltzer vs. Other Alcoholic Drinks: A Nutritional Comparison

When compared to other popular drinks, hard seltzer's nutritional profile is generally favorable, but it's important to understand the full picture. Here is a general overview based on average 12-ounce servings:


Drink Type	Calories (Approx.)	Carbs (Approx.)	Sugar (Approx.)	Gluten-Free	Key Consideration
Hard Seltzer	80-110	0-2g	0-2g	Yes (often)	Low in calories, carbs, and sugar, but check ingredients for additives.
Light Beer	90-110	3-6g	0g	No (typically)	Lower calories than regular beer, but higher carbs than many seltzers.
Regular Beer	150+	13-30g	0g	No	Significantly higher calories and carbs than seltzer or light beer.
Wine	120-130 (5 oz)	4g	1g (more for sweet)	Yes	Calories are comparable per fluid ounce, but serving size is smaller.
Liquor & Soda	100-116 (1.5 oz)	0g	0g	Yes	Lowest calories and carbs per fluid ounce, but mixers matter greatly.
Sugary Cocktail	150-500+	Variable	High	No	Highest in calories and sugar, offers little nutritional value.

How to Make the Smartest Spiked Seltzer Choice

To find a spiked seltzer that aligns with your health goals, follow these tips:

Read the Label: Don't just trust the low-calorie claim. Check for added sugars, carbs, and be wary of vague ingredient descriptions like "natural flavors".
Consider the Source: Brands that list their base alcohol (like vodka or tequila) and use real fruit juice are often cleaner than those relying on fermented cane sugar with undisclosed flavorings.
Choose Zero Sugar: Opt for seltzers that explicitly state zero grams of sugar to minimize empty calories and sugar intake.
Think Homemade: For ultimate control, make your own vodka seltzer at home using a quality vodka, sparkling water, and fresh fruit or juice.

Conclusion: Finding Your Best Option

While no alcoholic beverage is a health food, the "healthiest" spiked seltzer is one that is low in calories, contains zero grams of sugar, and is made with simple, transparent ingredients. Brands like TRACES, Bon & Viv, and Nutrl are excellent examples of products that meet these criteria. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal preferences regarding flavor and ingredients. However, the most crucial takeaway is always moderation, as the potential negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption outweigh any perceived nutritional benefits.

For more detailed comparisons on how hard seltzers stack up against other alcoholic beverages, consult resources like this one from Texas Health Resources: https://www.texashealth.org/areyouawellbeing/Eating-Right/How-Hard-Seltzers-Stack-Up-Against-Category-Mainstays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the lowest-calorie options found in searches include TRACES Hugo Spritz (80 calories) and Served Raspberry Hard Seltzer (57 calories).

Most hard seltzers are gluten-free because they are made from a fermented sugar base rather than malted grains. However, it is always best to check the label for certification if you have a gluten sensitivity.

Generally, spiked seltzers have fewer calories and carbohydrates than most regular beers. However, a light beer can have a similar calorie count, and all alcoholic beverages should be consumed in moderation.

When looking for healthier options, it's best to avoid seltzers with excessive added sugar or ambiguous "natural flavors," which are not a regulated claim and can hide additives.

Seltzers made with a vodka base and real fruit juice, like Nutrl, are often considered a cleaner option because their ingredients are more transparent and they have no added sugar. Fermented cane sugar bases can be flavored with less transparent ingredients.

Yes, you can make a healthier version at home by mixing high-quality vodka or other liquor with unflavored seltzer water and adding fresh fruit juice for flavor. This gives you complete control over the ingredients.

While hard seltzers have fewer of the components sometimes associated with hangovers, like excess sugar, alcohol itself is the primary cause. Because they are often easy to drink, it is easy to over-consume, which can lead to a hangover.