Decoding the Clear American Ingredients
Clear American, a brand often found at Walmart, is known for its wide array of fruit-flavored sparkling waters. While many consumers appreciate the sweet and bubbly taste, it's important to understand where that sweetness comes from. Unlike unflavored seltzer, which is simply carbonated water, the sweetened versions of Clear American use a specific combination of artificial sweeteners to achieve their zero-sugar, zero-calorie status.
The Primary Sweeteners: Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium
For most flavored Clear American sparkling water varieties, the sweetness is not from sugar but from a blend of two artificial additives: aspartame and acesulfame potassium. This combination is frequently used in diet beverages to create a robust sweet flavor profile.
- Aspartame (E951): This is a low-calorie sweetener composed of two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine. It is one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners globally. Products containing aspartame carry a warning for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that prevents the body from properly breaking down phenylalanine.
- Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K or E950): Often paired with other sweeteners like aspartame, acesulfame potassium provides a stable sweetness and is calorie-free. Using these sweeteners together can create a more balanced and prolonged sweet taste, masking any potential bitter aftertastes that might occur with a single sweetener.
The Exception: Unsweetened Varieties
It is important to note that Clear American also offers unsweetened sparkling water options. These products contain no sweeteners and list only carbonated water and natural flavors on their ingredient list. This provides an important distinction for consumers who wish to avoid all artificial additives. Always check the label to ensure you're getting the product you expect.
Potential Health Considerations of Artificial Sweeteners
While regulatory bodies like the FDA have deemed aspartame and acesulfame potassium safe for general consumption, some health experts and organizations maintain a cautious stance. The safety of artificial sweeteners is a topic of ongoing debate, and it's wise for consumers to consider this when making a regular purchase. Concerns often center around the long-term effects of consuming these additives regularly, including potential impacts on metabolism and gut health.
Making an Informed Choice
For health-conscious individuals, the key is knowing which products contain sweeteners and which don't. While flavored and sweetened sparkling waters can help with a soda craving, unsweetened seltzers are often recommended as a more straightforward hydration alternative. For those aiming to reduce their dependency on sugary or artificially sweetened drinks, gradually shifting towards unsweetened options is a popular strategy recommended by nutrition experts.
Sweetened vs. Unsweetened: A Comparison
| Feature | Sweetened Clear American Sparkling Water | Unsweetened Clear American Sparkling Water |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Aspartame & Acesulfame Potassium | None |
| Flavor | Noticeably sweet; resembles diet soda | Flavored but not sweet; clean, light taste |
| Ingredients | Carbonated water, citric acid, natural flavors, artificial sweeteners, preservatives | Carbonated water, natural flavors |
| Calories | Zero | Zero |
| Target Consumer | Those seeking a sweet, fizzy, zero-calorie drink | Those avoiding all sweeteners or seeking a purer taste |
Conclusion: Read the Label
In conclusion, the answer to what is the sweetener in Clear American sparkling water is a combination of aspartame and acesulfame potassium, but only in its sweetened varieties. The brand also provides unsweetened versions that contain zero sweeteners. For consumers, the best practice is to always check the ingredient label, especially if you have concerns about artificial sweeteners or are managing a condition like phenylketonuria. This simple habit ensures you know exactly what you're drinking and helps you align your beverage choices with your personal health goals. For further nutritional guidance, consider consulting an expert or trusted source like the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
Alternatives to Consider
For those who prefer a sweetened drink but want to explore alternatives to aspartame and acesulfame potassium, options exist. Some brands use natural, plant-derived sweeteners like stevia, while others use fruit juice for a hint of natural sweetness. Alternatively, infusing plain sparkling water with fresh fruit slices, herbs like mint, or a splash of natural juice provides a healthier, customizable flavor experience.
