SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE scores 18/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed beverage.
This SIGNATURE SELECT beverage has a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it should be avoided.
It contains 7.08g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
This product offers no protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
Consider this beverage as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
Scores -14 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
7.08g
14% of Daily Value
Sodium
10.99mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (7.1g)-7
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 18
SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE receives a FoodScore of 18/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is its significant added sugar content, which stands at 7.08g per 100g. This amount contributes a substantial -7 penalty to the overall score. Furthermore, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, resulting in an additional -10 penalty. Ingredients such as sugar and caramel color are indicative of this classification. The beverage also provides no beneficial macronutrients like protein or fiber, and lacks essential micronutrients, leading to a -15 penalty for 'empty calories'. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE offers minimal nutritional value and a high concentration of added sugars, which are recommended to be limited in the diet.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in signature select iced tea, lemonade actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Hydration Support in Specific Contexts
While not a primary source of hydration due to its sugar content, SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE can contribute to fluid intake. For individuals who struggle to drink plain water, a small, infrequent serving of a flavored beverage like this could help meet daily fluid needs, especially if it's the only palatable option available at a given moment. However, it's important to remember that plain water remains the optimal choice for hydration.
Source of Energy for Quick Boost
The sugar content in SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE provides a quick source of carbohydrates, which the body can use for energy. This might be relevant in situations requiring a rapid energy boost, such as during prolonged physical activity or when experiencing a sudden drop in blood sugar. However, for sustained energy, foods with complex carbohydrates and fiber are generally preferred to avoid rapid blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Flavorful Alternative for Occasional Indulgence
For those seeking a specific taste experience, SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE offers a sweet and tangy flavor profile. As an occasional treat, it can satisfy a craving for a flavored beverage. It's important to consume such beverages in moderation, recognizing they are not designed to provide significant nutritional benefits but rather to offer a momentary sensory experience.
SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE scores 18/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed beverage.
How to eat it
This iced tea and lemonade blend is typically consumed as a refreshing beverage, often alongside meals or as a standalone drink. It's common to find it served chilled, and portion sizes can vary widely. The primary pitfall is consuming large quantities due to its high added sugar content.
To reduce added sugar intake, consider diluting your serving of SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE with plain water or unsweetened iced tea.
Pair this beverage with a meal rich in fiber and protein to help moderate the blood sugar response from the added sugar.
Use this beverage as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to align with dietary guidelines for limiting added sugars.
When craving a similar flavor, consider making your own lemonade with less sugar or opting for unsweetened tea with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE relates to its high added sugar content. Regular consumption of beverages high in added sugars can contribute to excessive calorie intake, potentially leading to weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The ingredient caramel color is also present; while generally recognized as safe, some caramel coloring processes can produce 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), which has been a subject of regulatory scrutiny, though levels in beverages are typically low. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be particularly mindful of their intake due to the rapid impact of liquid sugars on blood glucose.
SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE is not considered a healthy beverage for regular consumption. It scores 18/100 on FoodScore, largely due to its high added sugar content (7.08g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It provides no significant vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber, making it a source of mostly 'empty calories'.
How does SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE compare to other iced teas?
Compared to unsweetened iced teas, SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE contains significantly more added sugar. For example, a brand like Lipton Unsweetened Iced Tea contains 0g of added sugar. Even compared to other sweetened iced teas, its sugar content is a key factor. Consumers looking to reduce sugar intake should opt for unsweetened varieties or those with very low sugar content.
What is 'caramel color' in this product?
Caramel color is a food additive used to give the beverage its characteristic brown hue. It is one of the oldest and most widely used food colorings. While generally considered safe by regulatory bodies, some types of caramel coloring can contain 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), a compound that has raised some health concerns in high doses, though typical dietary exposure from beverages is low.
What is a reasonable portion size for this beverage?
A reasonable portion size for SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE would be a small serving, perhaps 4-6 ounces, and consumed infrequently. Given its high added sugar content, regular consumption of larger portions would make it difficult to adhere to dietary guidelines recommending limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories.
Can children drink SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE?
While not strictly prohibited, it's generally recommended that children limit their intake of beverages high in added sugars. The sugar content in SIGNATURE SELECT ICED TEA, LEMONADE can contribute to excessive calorie intake and dental issues in children. Plain water or milk are more appropriate choices for children's hydration and nutritional needs.