FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentbeverageSTK· 12 fl oz (360mL)

STK UN-SWEET BLACK BRIGHT & MELLOW COLD BREW COFFEE BEVERAGE

STK UN-SWEET BLACK BRIGHT & MELLOW COLD BREW COFFEE BEVERAGE scores 58/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **minimal processing** and absence of added sugars.

  • This STK cold brew scores 58/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • It contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of total fat per 100g serving.
  • As a NOVA class 2 food, it is considered minimally processed.
  • Compared to plain water, it offers flavor without significant calories or nutrients.
  • A 12 fl oz serving provides a convenient, unsweetened coffee option.
  • Scores +26 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0.28g
1% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
3mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
What holds it back

Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.

Why it scores 58

The STK UN-SWEET BLACK BRIGHT & MELLOW COLD BREW COFFEE BEVERAGE achieves a FoodScore of 58 out of 100, largely because it is a minimally processed beverage with no added sugars or fats. Per 100g, it contains only 4 calories, 0.28g of protein, and 3mg of sodium, with 0g of fiber, total fat, and added sugar. The ingredient list is straightforward, featuring "COFFEE (FILTERED WATER, COFFEE*)" and "NATURAL FLAVOR." The absence of added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or significant sodium contributes positively to its score. While it doesn't provide notable amounts of vitamins or minerals, its formulation as a simple coffee beverage means it avoids common penalties associated with highly processed drinks. The product receives a bonus for being a NOVA class 2 food, indicating it is a processed culinary ingredient. Compared to the reference baseline of plain water, this STK cold brew offers a flavored alternative without introducing undesirable nutrients in significant quantities.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in stk un-sweet black bright & mellow cold brew coffee beverage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

A Low-Calorie Beverage Choice

This STK cold brew is a very low-calorie option, providing only 4 calories per 100g. For individuals managing calorie intake, it can be a suitable choice to add flavor without contributing significantly to daily energy consumption. Its composition, primarily filtered water and coffee, means it avoids the high caloric density often found in sweetened beverages, making it a good alternative for those looking to reduce their overall calorie intake while still enjoying a flavored drink.

Free from Added Sugars

One of the key benefits of this STK product is its complete absence of added sugars. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugar intake, and this cold brew aligns with that guidance by containing 0g of added sugar per 100g. This makes it a preferable option over many other coffee beverages that often contain significant amounts of sweeteners, helping consumers reduce their intake of empty calories and support better blood sugar management.

Minimally Processed Formulation

Classified as a NOVA class 2 food, this cold brew is considered minimally processed. Its ingredient list is short and recognizable: "COFFEE (FILTERED WATER, COFFEE*)" and "NATURAL FLAVOR." This indicates that the product has undergone minimal alteration from its original state, primarily brewing and filtering. Choosing minimally processed foods and beverages can be a beneficial strategy for overall dietary health, as they typically contain fewer additives and retain more of their inherent nutritional qualities.

How to eat it

STK UN-SWEET BLACK BRIGHT & MELLOW COLD BREW COFFEE BEVERAGE is typically consumed as a ready-to-drink coffee. It can be enjoyed chilled straight from the container, often as a morning beverage or an afternoon pick-me-up. The 12 fl oz serving size is a standard single portion.

To enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding a splash of unsweetened milk or plant-based beverage for a small amount of protein and calcium.
Pair this cold brew with a fiber-rich breakfast like oatmeal or whole-grain toast to create a more balanced meal.
If you prefer a sweeter taste, use a small amount of fruit (like berries) or a calorie-free sweetener instead of added sugars.
This cold brew can be used as a base for smoothies, adding a coffee flavor without contributing excess calories or sugar.
Things to keep in mind

This STK cold brew contains natural flavor, which is a broad category and does not specify the exact compounds used. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may have sensitivities to specific flavor components. As a coffee product, it naturally contains caffeine. Individuals sensitive to caffeine, including pregnant women and children, should consume it in moderation. There are no declared allergens on the label, and its simple ingredient list suggests a low risk for common food sensitivities beyond caffeine. The product is otherwise unremarkable regarding specific cautions for most healthy adults.

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Reader questions
Is STK UN-SWEET BLACK BRIGHT & MELLOW COLD BREW COFFEE BEVERAGE healthy?
This STK cold brew scores 58/100 on FoodScore, indicating it's a decent choice. It is healthy in the sense that it contains no added sugar or fat and is very low in calories. However, it does not provide significant vitamins, minerals, or fiber, so it should be considered a flavored beverage rather than a nutrient-dense food.
How does STK cold brew compare to other cold brew brands?
Compared to many other cold brew brands, such as Starbucks bottled cold brew, this STK product stands out for its lack of added sugars. Many competitor cold brews, even those labeled 'black,' might contain sweeteners or other additives. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts, especially for added sugar content, when comparing different brands.
What does 'NATURAL FLAVOR' mean in the ingredient list?
The term 'NATURAL FLAVOR' refers to flavorings derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or other edible plant or animal material. These are added to enhance the taste of the product. While derived from natural sources, they are still processed ingredients, and the specific components are not disclosed on the label.
What is a reasonable daily intake for this cold brew?
A reasonable daily intake depends on your individual caffeine tolerance and overall dietary needs. A 12 fl oz serving provides a moderate amount of caffeine. For most healthy adults, one to two servings per day would likely be acceptable, but it's important to monitor your total caffeine consumption from all sources. Since it's low in calories and sugar, it won't significantly impact your daily calorie or sugar limits.
Can I use this cold brew in recipes?
Yes, this unsweetened cold brew is a versatile ingredient for recipes. It can be used as a base for coffee-flavored smoothies, in baking for coffee-flavored cakes or brownies, or to make coffee-infused desserts. Its neutral, unsweetened profile makes it easy to incorporate without adding unwanted sweetness to your dishes.

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