ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed beverage.
This ARCHER FARMS product scores 0/100 on FoodScore, indicating it should be avoided.
It contains 35g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount for a beverage.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain water, this chai latte mix offers minimal nutritional benefits.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
Scores -32 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
35g
70% of Daily Value
Sodium
1428.57mg
62% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (35g)-25
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Sodium (1428.6mg)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 0
ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE scores 0/100 due to several factors that align with the USDA Dietary Guidelines. The most significant penalty comes from its high added sugar content, contributing 35g per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a single serving beverage. This far exceeds recommended daily limits. Additionally, the product contains 17.93g of saturated fat per 100g, primarily from coconut oil in the creamer, leading to another significant penalty. The sodium content is also notably high at 1428.57mg per 100g, which is a concern for regular consumption. As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it incurs a penalty for its extensive processing and formulation with industrial ingredients. While it receives minor bonuses for protein (7.14g) and calcium (11% DV), these are insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this product offers a high calorie, sugar, and fat load with limited micronutrient density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in archer farms tea drink mix, chai latte actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Source of Calcium
This ARCHER FARMS chai latte mix provides 142.86mg of calcium per 100g, contributing 11% of the Daily Value. Calcium is an essential mineral known for its role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. While not a primary source, it can contribute to your daily calcium intake, especially if consumed as part of a varied diet that includes other calcium-rich foods.
Contains Some Protein
With 7.14g of protein per 100g, this product offers a modest amount of this macronutrient. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, and it can contribute to satiety. The protein likely comes from the nonfat dry milk and sodium caseinate present in the creamer, providing a small boost compared to beverages without dairy components.
Convenient Beverage Option
For individuals seeking a quick and easy hot beverage, this K-Cup format offers convenience and speed of preparation. It can serve as a readily available option for a warm drink, particularly in settings where traditional tea preparation is not feasible. This makes it a practical choice for those with limited time or access to full kitchen facilities.
ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed beverage.
How to eat it
ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE is typically consumed as a hot beverage, often as a morning drink or an afternoon pick-me-up. The K-Cup format makes it a convenient single-serving option. Due to its high sugar and fat content, it is best considered an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
To reduce the overall sugar and calorie intake, consider preparing it with extra water or unsweetened milk to dilute the concentration.
Pair this chai latte with a source of fiber and protein, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help balance blood sugar response.
Limit consumption to occasional treats rather than a daily beverage to manage intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
If you enjoy chai flavor, consider brewing black tea with chai spices and adding a small amount of milk and a natural sweetener like stevia for a lower-sugar alternative.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with dairy allergies should note that this product contains sodium caseinate, a milk derivative, and nonfat dry milk. The high added sugar content, primarily from sugar and corn syrup solids, makes it less suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. The presence of natural and artificial flavor, along with sucralose, means it contains non-nutritive sweeteners and flavor enhancers. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit consumption of artificial ingredients. The high sodium content could also be a concern for those monitoring their sodium intake.
Is ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 0/100, ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (35g per 100g) and saturated fat (17.93g per 100g), and classified as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some protein and calcium, these benefits are outweighed by its less desirable nutritional components.
How does ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE compare to other chai latte mixes?
Compared to many other instant chai latte mixes, such as those from Starbucks or Tazo, ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE shares a similar nutritional profile, often being high in added sugars and fats. Many branded chai latte mixes are formulated with creamer and sweeteners as primary ingredients. For a healthier option, consider making chai from scratch with black tea, spices, and a controlled amount of sweetener and milk.
What is sucralose, and why is it in this product?
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that provides sweetness without calories. It is included in ARCHER FARMS TEA DRINK MIX, CHAI LATTE likely to enhance sweetness while potentially reducing the overall caloric impact from sugar, or to achieve a specific flavor profile. Some individuals choose to limit artificial sweeteners in their diet.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chai latte mix?
The declared serving size is 1 K-CUP. Given its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, it is advisable to consider this a treat beverage. Limiting consumption to occasional instances, rather than daily, would align with dietary guidelines for managing intake of these nutrients.
Can I make this chai latte less sweet?
Since the sweetness comes from both sugar and sucralose mixed into the powder, you cannot directly reduce the sweetness of the powder itself. However, you can make the final beverage less sweet by diluting it with more hot water or by adding unsweetened milk or a milk alternative, which will spread the existing sweetness over a larger volume.