Understanding Seltzer Calories: Where Do They Come From?
Seltzer is fundamentally carbonated water. In non-alcoholic versions, calories typically come from added fruit juices or artificial sweeteners, while zero-calorie options rely on natural or artificial flavorings without any caloric content. For hard seltzers, the calories primarily derive from the alcohol itself, which is often fermented from cane sugar or malted rice. Flavorings, even those with zero sugar, can also contribute a small amount, but most modern hard seltzers are designed to minimize or eliminate residual sugars. This has made them a popular alternative to higher-calorie options like beer and cocktails for those monitoring their intake.
Lowest Calorie Non-Alcoholic Seltzers
For those seeking the absolute minimum calorie count, non-alcoholic sparkling waters are the answer. Many brands offer a wide array of flavors with zero calories, zero sugar, and no artificial sweeteners.
- Waterloo Sparkling Water: A standout brand offering robust flavors with zero calories, zero sugar, and no sodium. Varieties include Black Cherry, Pineapple, and Lemon-Lime.
- Other Flavor-Focused Brands: Companies like Bubly and LaCroix also offer a vast selection of zero-calorie, naturally flavored sparkling water. The key is to check the nutrition label to ensure no added sugars or juices contribute to the calorie count.
- DIY Seltzers: The lowest-calorie option is plain sparkling water, which contains zero calories. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon, lime, or other fruit can provide a hint of flavor without significant caloric impact.
Lowest Calorie Hard Seltzers
For those who enjoy a bit of alcohol, the hard seltzer market has exploded with low-calorie options. While most major brands like White Claw and Truly hover around 100 calories per 12 oz can, several contenders offer even lower counts.
Comparison of Popular Hard Seltzers (Approximate Values per 12 oz can)
| Brand | Calories | ABV | Carbs | Sugars | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Served Hard Seltzer | ~57 | 4% | Negligible | 0g | Very low calorie, lower ABV |
| Long Shot Hard Seltzer | ~65-68 | 4% | 2.3-2.5g | Low | Very low calorie, lower ABV |
| Bodega Bay Hard Seltzer | ~72 | 4% | Varies | 0g/4.5g | Low calorie, 0g sugar in some flavors |
| DRTY Hard Seltzer | ~83 | 4% | 0g | 0g | Zero sugar, zero carbs |
| Lone River Ranch Water | ~80-90 | 4% | Low | Low | Tequila-inspired flavor |
| Michelob Ultra Organic Seltzer | 80 | 4% | Low | 0g | USDA-certified organic |
| Sundays Hard Seltzer | ~75 | 4% | Low | Low | Another low-cal option |
| White Claw | 95-100 | 4.5-5% | 2g | 2g | One of the most popular brands |
| Truly Hard Seltzer | 100 | 5% | 1g | 1g | Another very popular choice |
It is important to note that these values can vary slightly by flavor and can size, so always check the label for the most accurate information. Also, some brands, like Served Hard Seltzer, may only be available in certain regions.
Factors Beyond Calories
While calorie count is a key factor, other considerations influence your choice, especially for hard seltzers.
ABV (Alcohol by Volume)
Some lower-calorie options achieve their reduced calorie count by having a lower ABV. A drink with a 4% ABV will naturally have fewer calories from alcohol than one with 5% or higher. For example, White Claw is generally 5% ABV, while some of the lowest-calorie options hover around 4%.
Carbs and Sugars
Many low-calorie seltzers are also low in carbohydrates and sugars, making them suitable for diets like keto. Brands like DRTY pride themselves on being zero grams of sugar and carbs. However, as the table shows, this isn't universally true, so checking the nutritional information is crucial if these macros are a priority for you.
Flavor and Ingredients
Taste is subjective, and a seltzer's flavor profile depends on its ingredients, which can be natural or artificial. Some brands use fermented cane sugar, while others may use a grain spirit or tequila base, affecting the final flavor. For those seeking an ultra-clean taste, seltzers with triple-filtered water and natural flavorings are often preferred.
Non-Hard Seltzer Options
If alcohol is not a factor, zero-calorie flavored sparkling water is the best choice. For instance, Waterloo Sparkling Water offers a vast range of flavors with zero calories, zero sugar, and no artificial sweeteners. This is the most straightforward answer to which seltzer is lowest in calories.
Conclusion
Ultimately, which seltzer is lowest in calories depends on whether you are looking for an alcoholic or non-alcoholic option. For a completely calorie-free beverage, flavored sparkling water brands like Waterloo offer numerous zero-calorie options. If you prefer a hard seltzer, brands such as Served, Long Shot, and Bodega Bay offer some of the lowest calorie counts, often under 80 calories per can. However, the best choice also depends on your preference for ABV, carbs, and flavor. Always check the nutritional information to align your choice with your dietary goals. For an extensive look at the nutritional details of hard seltzers, consult resources like WebMD's hard seltzer facts.
