FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeverageJOYBA· 355 ml

JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA

JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA receives a FoodScore of 17/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its significant **added sugar** content and classification as an **ultra-processed beverage**.

  • JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA scores 17/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • This beverage contains 7.9g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low score.
  • Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed product with minimal nutritional value.
  • Compared to plain water, this beverage offers calories and added sugars without essential nutrients.
  • Scores -15 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
7.9g
16% of Daily Value
Sodium
4mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Added sugar (7.9g)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15

Why it scores 17

JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA earns a FoodScore of 17 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, particularly its added sugar content. With 7.9g of added sugar per 100g, this product incurs a significant penalty of -8 points, reflecting the USDA Dietary Guidelines' recommendation to limit added sugars. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which results in a -10 point penalty due to its formulation with multiple industrial ingredients and lack of whole foods. The ingredient list includes sugar as the third item, after water and hibiscus tea, and also lists sugar within the boba bubbles, confirming its high sugar load. The beverage provides 34.08 calories per 100g but offers no protein, fiber, or beneficial fats, leading to a -15 point penalty for empty calories. While it contains 2% DV for calcium, this is not enough to offset the significant penalties. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, JOYBA offers minimal nutritional benefits beyond hydration, primarily providing calories from sugar.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in joyba cherry hibiscus bubble tea actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Hydration Support

JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA, like other beverages, contributes to daily fluid intake. Adequate hydration is essential for numerous bodily functions, including temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and organ function. While plain water is the optimal choice for hydration, flavored beverages can sometimes encourage individuals who struggle with plain water consumption to drink more fluids overall. This product can serve as an occasional option within a varied hydration strategy, particularly for those who prefer sweetened drinks.

Source of Energy

This beverage provides 34.08 calories per 100g, primarily from carbohydrates in the form of sugar. For individuals needing a quick source of energy, such as during light physical activity or as a pick-me-up, the sugars in JOYBA can offer a rapid caloric boost. However, it is important to note that this energy comes without significant accompanying nutrients like protein or fiber, which would provide more sustained energy and satiety.

Alternative to Other Sweetened Beverages

For those accustomed to consuming other highly sweetened beverages like sodas or fruit juices with even higher sugar content, JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA could represent a marginal step down in sugar per serving, depending on the specific product comparison. While still high in added sugar, it might be perceived as a slightly different flavor profile or texture experience, potentially aiding in gradual reduction of overall sugar intake if used strategically as a transition beverage.

How to eat it

JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA is typically consumed as a ready-to-drink beverage and is often seen as a treat or a refreshing drink. It's usually consumed chilled, often with a wide straw to accommodate the boba bubbles. A common pitfall is viewing it as a daily hydration source due to its added sugar content.

Consider this beverage an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your daily fluid intake due to its added sugar.
To reduce overall sugar consumption, you might dilute the beverage with plain or sparkling water, which also extends the serving.
Pairing this drink with a meal rich in fiber and protein, such as a salad with lean protein, can help mitigate the rapid blood sugar spike from the added sugars.
For a lower-sugar alternative, consider unsweetened hibiscus tea with a squeeze of lemon and a small amount of fruit for natural sweetness.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the added sugar content in JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA. With 7.9g of added sugar per 100g, regular consumption can contribute significantly to exceeding daily recommended limits for added sugars, which may impact blood sugar levels. Individuals managing diabetes or those aiming to reduce sugar intake should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list also includes carmine color, which is derived from insects and may be a concern for individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies, although it is generally recognized as safe. The presence of various gums and stabilizers like sodium alginate and xanthan gum is typical for ultra-processed products and may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals, though this is uncommon.

Swap suggestions
Very good
Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER
Score82
Very good
LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW
Score82
Very good
WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER
Score82
Very good
GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT
Score80
Very good
INCA'S GOLD YELLOW MACA ORGANIC GELATINIZED POWDER, YELLOW MACA
Score80
Very good
VEGA DRINK MIX, MINT LEMONADE
Score79
Reader questions
Is JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA healthy?
JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA receives a FoodScore of 17/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed beverage. It offers minimal essential nutrients and is best consumed in moderation.
How does JOYBA compare to other bubble tea brands?
Compared to many traditional bubble teas, which can often contain higher amounts of added sugar and calories, JOYBA might offer a pre-portioned, slightly lower-calorie option. However, it still contains significant added sugar. For a healthier alternative, consider brands like Teas' Tea or Ito En, which offer unsweetened bottled teas.
What are 'boba bubbles' made of in this product?
The boba bubbles in JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA are primarily made from water, sugar, and various thickeners and gelling agents such as calcium lactate, citric acid, corn starch, and sodium alginate. They contribute to the texture and some of the sugar content of the beverage.
How much JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA can I drink daily?
Due to its added sugar content, it is advisable to consume JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA in moderation, perhaps as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories.
Does this bubble tea contain caffeine?
The ingredient list for JOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA includes 'brewed hibiscus tea'. While hibiscus tea is naturally caffeine-free, the product does not explicitly state 'caffeine-free'. However, hibiscus tea concentrate extract is typically not a source of caffeine, so it is unlikely to contain significant amounts.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll JOYBA SKUs Competitor · 82/100Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Competitor · 82/100LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headJOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA vs. Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Head-to-headJOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA vs. LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headJOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA vs. WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER Head-to-headJOYBA CHERRY HIBISCUS BUBBLE TEA vs. GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT

Data & references