ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 4/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This drink mix scores 4/100, indicating it is not a recommended choice for regular consumption.
It provides 60% DV of Vitamin C per 100g, a notable micronutrient contribution.
The product contains 96.2g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed beverage.
Use sparingly as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage.
Scores -28 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
96.2g
192% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (96.2g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 4
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 4 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary reason for this low score is the exceptionally high amount of added sugar, which is 96.2g per 100g. This contributes a substantial -25 penalty to the overall score. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurring another -10 penalty. Furthermore, its nutritional profile, with 384.62 calories per 100g and minimal protein or fiber, leads to a -15 penalty for empty calories. While the drink mix does offer some micronutrients, specifically 153.85mg of calcium (12% DV) and 60% DV of Vitamin C per 100g, these contribute only a +4 bonus, which is insufficient to offset the significant penalties. The ingredient list begins with SUGAR and FRUCTOSE, clearly indicating the high sugar content. Compared to plain water or an unsweetened beverage, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY offers very little nutritional benefit beyond its vitamin C and calcium content, and comes with a substantial sugar load.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in essential everyday drink mix, cherry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin C
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY provides 60% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role in immune function and as an antioxidant. While this product is not a primary source of nutrition, it can contribute to your daily Vitamin C intake, especially if dietary intake from fruits and vegetables is low. However, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile.
Contribution to Calcium Intake
This drink mix contains 153.85mg of calcium per 100g, which is 12% of the Daily Value. Calcium is crucial for bone health and various bodily functions. While not a significant source, the presence of tricalcium phosphate as an ingredient means it can offer a small contribution to daily calcium needs, particularly for individuals who may struggle to meet their calcium requirements through other dietary sources. It should not be relied upon as a primary calcium source.
Hydration Support
When mixed with water, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY can contribute to overall fluid intake. Maintaining adequate hydration is important for many bodily processes, including temperature regulation and nutrient transport. While plain water is the ideal choice for hydration, flavored options like this drink mix can sometimes encourage individuals to drink more fluids, especially if they find plain water unappealing. However, the high sugar content should be considered.
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 4/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Drink mixes like ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY are typically consumed as a flavored beverage, often mixed with cold water. They are commonly used as a convenient alternative to sodas or other sugary drinks, or to add flavor to plain water. A common portion is 2 tablespoons of mix per 8 ounces of water.
To reduce added sugar intake, consider using less than the recommended amount of mix per serving of water.
Pair with a meal rich in protein and fiber to help moderate blood sugar response from the added sugars.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage to limit overall consumption of ultra-processed ingredients.
Consider diluting further than recommended to create a less sweet, lower-sugar option.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY is its very high added sugar content. With 96.2g of added sugar per 100g, regular consumption can contribute significantly to exceeding daily sugar recommendations, potentially impacting blood sugar levels and overall dietary quality. Individuals managing diabetes or those aiming to reduce sugar intake should be particularly mindful. The product also contains ARTIFICIAL FLAVOR RED 40, a synthetic food dye. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals may experience sensitivities. As an ultra-processed product (NOVA 4), it offers minimal whole food benefits.
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY receives a FoodScore of 4/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content is the primary factor for this low score. While it provides some Vitamin C and calcium, these benefits are outweighed by the significant amount of sugar and its ultra-processed nature.
How does ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY compare to Kool-Aid?
Compared to similar powdered drink mixes like Kool-Aid, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY has a comparable nutritional profile, often featuring high levels of added sugar and artificial colors. Both are typically classified as ultra-processed beverages. The main difference often lies in specific flavorings and minor micronutrient additions, but the overall health impact is similar due to the sugar content.
What is 'ARTIFICIAL FLAVOR RED 40' in this product?
ARTIFICIAL FLAVOR RED 40 is a synthetic food coloring used to give the drink mix its cherry color. It is approved for use in food products by regulatory agencies. While most people consume it without issue, some individuals may be sensitive to food dyes, and it is a component of many ultra-processed foods.
How much ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY can I drink daily?
Given its FoodScore of 4/100 and high added sugar content (96.2g per 100g), ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY is best consumed infrequently and in small portions. It is not recommended as a daily beverage. Prioritize plain water or unsweetened drinks for daily hydration to minimize added sugar intake.
Does this drink mix contain real fruit?
No, the ingredient list for ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY DRINK MIX, CHERRY does not include any real fruit or fruit juice. The cherry flavor is derived from artificial flavorings. The color comes from Red 40, not from fruit extracts. This contributes to its classification as an ultra-processed food.