FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentbeveragePURE LEAF· 18.5 fl oz

PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON

PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON scores 54/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its score is primarily driven by the presence of added sugar, which contributes significantly to its caloric content.

  • This PURE LEAF tea scores 54/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
  • It contains 4.87g of added sugar per 100g, impacting its overall score.
  • As a NOVA class 2 product, it is considered minimally processed.
  • Compared to plain water, this beverage provides calories and added sugar.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a daily staple.
  • Scores +22 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
4.87g
10% of Daily Value
Sodium
1.99mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (4.9g)-4

Why it scores 54

PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON receives a FoodScore of 54 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of its minimally processed nature and its content of added sugar. The product benefits from being classified as NOVA class 2, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient rather than an ultra-processed food, which adds 8 bonus points to its score. However, the presence of 4.87g of added sugar per 100g incurs a penalty of 4 points. While the product contains no fat, protein, or fiber, and negligible sodium (1.99mg per 100g), these neutral aspects do not significantly boost its score. The ingredient list, which includes 'SUGAR' and 'NATURAL FLAVOR', confirms the source of the added sugar. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, this PURE LEAF tea provides calories (27.06 per 100g) primarily from its sugar content, making it a less ideal choice for hydration if calorie intake is a primary concern.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in pure leaf lemon real brewed tea, lemon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

A Hydrating Beverage Option

This PURE LEAF tea can contribute to daily fluid intake, which is essential for maintaining bodily functions such as temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and waste removal. While plain water is the optimal choice for hydration, flavored teas like this one can be a more appealing option for some individuals, encouraging them to drink more fluids throughout the day. Its water base means it effectively helps to quench thirst and support overall hydration status.

Source of Antioxidants from Tea

As a real brewed black tea, this product naturally contains polyphenols and other antioxidants. These compounds, inherent to tea leaves, may help to protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. While the processing and added ingredients may dilute some benefits compared to freshly brewed unsweetened tea, the base still offers these naturally occurring components. Consuming tea can be part of a varied diet that includes different sources of plant-based compounds.

Potential for Moderate Energy Boost

The sugar content in PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA provides a source of readily available carbohydrates, which can offer a quick energy boost. For individuals needing a rapid increase in energy, such as during a mid-afternoon slump or before light physical activity, the 27.06 calories per 100g from sugar can be useful. This makes it a suitable option for occasional consumption when a small amount of quick energy is desired.

How to eat it

This lemon-flavored brewed tea is typically consumed as a refreshing beverage, often chilled. It's commonly enjoyed on its own as a convenient ready-to-drink option throughout the day or with meals. The serving size of 18.5 fl oz is a common single-serving bottle size.

To manage sugar intake, consider alternating with unsweetened beverages like plain water or unsweetened tea.
Pair this tea with a meal that is rich in fiber and protein to help moderate the impact of the added sugar on blood glucose levels.
If you enjoy the flavor, try diluting a portion of this tea with water to reduce the sugar concentration per serving.
Use this tea as an occasional treat rather than a primary source of hydration to limit daily added sugar consumption.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution for PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON is its added sugar content. While not excessively high, regular consumption of beverages with added sugar can contribute to an increased overall caloric intake and may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or prediabetes. The ingredient 'CITRIC ACID' is generally recognized as safe but can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals when consumed in large quantities. There are no common allergens declared on the label. For children, the combination of sugar and caffeine (from black tea) should be considered, as excessive intake of either can be undesirable.

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 PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON considered healthy?
This PURE LEAF tea scores 54/100, which is in the 'Decent' range. It provides hydration and some antioxidants from black tea. However, it contains added sugar, which contributes calories without significant nutritional benefits. For optimal health, unsweetened beverages are generally preferred.
How does PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON compare to other bottled teas?
Compared to many other sweetened bottled teas, PURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON's 4.87g of added sugar per 100g is moderate. For example, some brands like Lipton Sweet Tea may contain higher amounts of added sugar. However, it contains more sugar than unsweetened options such as Honest Tea Unsweet Black Tea, which has 0g added sugar.
What is 'NATURAL FLAVOR' in this tea?
'NATURAL FLAVOR' is a broad term for flavorings derived from natural sources, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, or other plant materials. In this PURE LEAF tea, it likely enhances the lemon taste. While derived from natural sources, these flavors are processed and can contribute to the palatability of the product, potentially encouraging higher consumption.
What is a reasonable portion size for this tea?
The product is sold in an 18.5 fl oz bottle, which is considered one serving. However, to manage added sugar intake, you might consider consuming half a bottle at a time or sharing it. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting calories from added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories.
Can this tea replace water for hydration?
While this tea contributes to fluid intake, it should not entirely replace plain water. Water is calorie-free and sugar-free, making it the most effective hydrator. This tea contains added sugar and calories, so it's best consumed as an occasional beverage rather than a primary source of hydration.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll PURE LEAF SKUs Competitor · 0/100A.1., NEW YORK STEAKHOUSE MARINADE Competitor · 0/100ALMOND JOY CHOCOLATE PUDDING WITH REAL COCONUT & ALMONDS Head-to-headPURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON vs. A.1., NEW YORK STEAKHOUSE MARINADE Head-to-headPURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON vs. ALMOND JOY CHOCOLATE PUDDING WITH REAL COCONUT & ALMONDS Head-to-headPURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON vs. AMERICA'S CHOICE, SUGAR SWEETENED ICED TEA MIX, LEMON, LEMON Head-to-headPURE LEAF LEMON REAL BREWED TEA, LEMON vs. AMERICA'S CHOICE DECAFFEINATED ICED TEA MIX, LEMON

Data & references