COUNTRY TIME Drink Mix Lemonade receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid). Its score is primarily driven by the **high amount of added sugar**, contributing 63g per 100g, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This COUNTRY TIME product scores 2/100, indicating it is an item to avoid for regular consumption.
It contains 63g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain water, this drink mix offers minimal nutritional benefits beyond some Vitamin C.
Consider this product for occasional use, focusing on small portions to manage added sugar intake.
Scores -30 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
63g
126% of Daily Value
Sodium
100mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (63g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 2
COUNTRY TIME Drink Mix Lemonade earns a FoodScore of 2 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely due to its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 63g of added sugar, which significantly penalizes its score. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugar intake, and this amount represents a substantial portion of daily recommendations. Furthermore, the product is categorized as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs an additional penalty. While it does provide a bonus for Vitamin C, contributing 67% DV per 100g, this benefit is outweighed by the high sugar content and lack of other beneficial macronutrients like protein or fiber. Ingredients such as sucralose are included as artificial sweeteners alongside sugar. When compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, COUNTRY TIME lemonade offers considerably more calories and added sugars without providing significant essential nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in country time, drink mix, lemonade, lemonade actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin C
This COUNTRY TIME drink mix provides a notable amount of Vitamin C, with 67% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune function and as an antioxidant. While not a primary source of nutrition, it can contribute to your daily intake of this vitamin. This can be a useful consideration if you are looking for a way to supplement your Vitamin C intake, especially when other options are not readily available.
Hydration Support
Like other beverages, COUNTRY TIME Lemonade can contribute to your daily fluid intake, which is crucial for maintaining hydration. Adequate hydration supports various bodily functions, including temperature regulation and nutrient transport. For individuals who find plain water unappealing, a flavored drink like this could encourage greater fluid consumption, although it's important to balance this with the added sugar content. It can serve as an occasional alternative to plain water to help meet hydration goals.
Convenient Beverage Option
This drink mix offers a convenient way to prepare a flavored beverage quickly, requiring only water. Its powdered form makes it easy to store and transport, providing a ready option for a sweet drink at home or on the go. While not a nutrient-dense choice, its convenience can be a factor for specific situations, such as outdoor activities or when access to fresh ingredients is limited. It provides a simple solution for a flavored drink.
COUNTRY TIME Drink Mix Lemonade receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid). Its score is primarily driven by the high amount of added sugar, contributing 63g per 100g, and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
COUNTRY TIME Drink Mix Lemonade is typically prepared by mixing the powder with water to create a sweet, tart beverage. It's often consumed as a refreshing drink, especially during warmer weather or as a treat. Common pitfalls include consuming large portions, which can lead to excessive added sugar intake.
To reduce added sugar per serving, consider mixing the powder with more water than recommended on the package.
Pair this drink with a meal rich in fiber and protein, such as a salad with grilled chicken, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Use this drink mix for occasional enjoyment rather than as a daily beverage choice to minimize added sugar consumption.
For a less sweet option, try combining a smaller amount of the mix with plain seltzer water for a fizzy, flavored drink.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in this product, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake if consumed frequently or in large portions. The ingredient list includes artificial color, Yellow 5 Lake, which some individuals may choose to avoid. Additionally, the presence of sucralose, an artificial sweetener, may be a consideration for those sensitive to or preferring to limit artificial sweeteners in their diet. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should account for the significant added sugar content. The product contains soy lecithin, which is an allergen for individuals with soy allergies.
COUNTRY TIME Drink Mix Lemonade is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It has a FoodScore of 2/100, primarily due to its high added sugar content (63g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it provides some Vitamin C, its overall nutritional profile is low in beneficial macronutrients like protein and fiber.
How does COUNTRY TIME Lemonade compare to other powdered lemonades?
Compared to other powdered lemonades like Kool-Aid, COUNTRY TIME Lemonade often has a similar profile of high added sugar and artificial ingredients. Many powdered drink mixes in this category are ultra-processed and provide minimal nutritional benefits beyond hydration and some fortified vitamins. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific sugar content and ingredients when comparing brands.
What is 'Yellow 5 Lake' in the ingredients?
Yellow 5 Lake is an artificial food coloring used to give the lemonade its characteristic yellow hue. It is a synthetic dye derived from petroleum. While approved for use by regulatory bodies, some individuals choose to avoid artificial colors due to potential sensitivities or dietary preferences.
How much COUNTRY TIME Lemonade can I drink daily?
Given its high added sugar content, it is recommended to consume COUNTRY TIME Lemonade in moderation and not as a daily staple. The USDA Dietary Guidelines advise limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. Frequent consumption of this product could easily exceed those recommendations, contributing to excess calorie intake.
Does this lemonade contain real lemons?
The ingredient list for COUNTRY TIME Drink Mix Lemonade includes 'natural flavor' but does not list actual lemon fruit or juice. The tartness is primarily provided by citric acid. While it aims to replicate a lemon taste, it is not made with significant amounts of real lemon ingredients.
Is COUNTRY TIME Lemonade suitable for people with diabetes?
Due to its high added sugar content (63g per 100g), COUNTRY TIME Lemonade is generally not suitable for individuals with diabetes or those managing blood sugar levels. Consuming this product could lead to a rapid increase in blood glucose. It is best to choose unsweetened beverages or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.