FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentsnackVEGA· 1 PACK

VEGA, SPORT, ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT

VEGA SPORT ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT scores 56/100 (Decent) due to its significant micronutrient content, particularly potassium, calcium, and vitamin C.

  • This VEGA product scores 56/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • It provides a notable 888.89mg (19% DV) of potassium and 555.56mg (43% DV) of calcium per 100g.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a degree of industrial transformation.
  • Compared to a whole-food snack, this gel offers a concentrated energy source with specific electrolytes.
  • Consider this product for rapid energy and electrolyte replenishment during sustained physical activity.
  • Scores +15 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
4.4g
16% of Daily Value
Protein
1.11g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
132.89mg
6% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.4g)+5
Micronutrients (Potassium, Calcium, Vitamin C)+6
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 56

The VEGA SPORT ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT achieves a FoodScore of 56 out of 100, classifying it as 'Decent'. This score is primarily driven by its beneficial micronutrient profile and fiber content. The product receives a bonus of +5 points for its 4.4g of fiber per 100g, contributing to digestive health. An additional +6 points are awarded for its significant levels of key micronutrients, including 888.89mg of potassium (19% DV), 555.56mg of calcium (43% DV), and an impressive 104% DV of vitamin C per 100g. These nutrients are important for various bodily functions, especially during exercise. However, the product incurs a penalty of -5 points because it is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. While it contains dates and grape juice for energy, its formulation with ingredients like natural rice dextrins and sorghum malt contributes to its processed nature. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this gel is designed for specific performance needs rather than general daily nutrition, offering a concentrated source of energy and electrolytes without added sugars.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in vega, sport, endurance gel electrolyte-enhanced energy shot actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Electrolyte Balance

This VEGA endurance gel is formulated with an electrolyte blend that includes calcium, chloride, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. These minerals are crucial for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions, especially during prolonged physical activity. Replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat can help prevent dehydration and support optimal athletic performance. The product's significant potassium (888.89mg) and calcium (555.56mg) content per 100g are particularly noteworthy.

Provides Rapid Energy

The primary ingredients, dates, grape juice, and natural rice dextrins, are sources of carbohydrates that provide quick energy. This formulation is designed to deliver readily available fuel to working muscles, which is essential for endurance activities. The combination of simple and complex carbohydrates helps sustain energy levels throughout extended workouts or races, supporting performance when glycogen stores may be depleting.

Boosts Vitamin C Intake

Each 100g serving of this product provides 104% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in immune function and collagen synthesis, which is important for tissue repair. For individuals engaged in intense physical activity, adequate vitamin C intake can help support recovery and overall health, making this gel a convenient source of this essential vitamin.

How to eat it

VEGA SPORT ENDURANCE GEL is typically consumed during endurance activities like running, cycling, or hiking to provide quick energy and replenish electrolytes. It's designed for on-the-go use, often taken directly from the packet. The small serving size makes it easy to carry and consume without interruption.

Consume one packet every 45-60 minutes during prolonged exercise to maintain energy levels and electrolyte balance.
Pair with water to aid absorption and ensure proper hydration, as the gel provides concentrated nutrients.
Consider using this gel for activities lasting longer than 60-90 minutes, where carbohydrate and electrolyte replenishment becomes more critical.
Store in a cool, dry place and consume before the expiration date for optimal quality and efficacy.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains natural orange flavor and a blend of sugars from dates, grape juice, and sorghum malt. While it does not contain added sugars, individuals monitoring their carbohydrate intake, such as those with diabetes, should account for the total carbohydrate content. The product is generally well-tolerated; however, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort with concentrated carbohydrate gels during intense exercise. It is always advisable to test new nutrition products during training before using them in a competitive event to assess individual tolerance. There are no common allergens explicitly declared on the label, but individuals with specific sensitivities should review the full ingredient list carefully.

Swap suggestions
Very good
ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA
Score85
Very good
BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA
Score85
Very good
BEECH-NUT ORIGINAL CRISPEAS BAKED PEA PUFFS, ORIGINAL
Score85
Reader questions
Is VEGA SPORT ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT healthy?
This VEGA product scores 56/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It is formulated for specific athletic needs, providing rapid energy from carbohydrates and a good source of electrolytes and Vitamin C. While it's not a whole food, it can be a beneficial tool for endurance athletes to support performance and recovery.
How does VEGA SPORT ENDURANCE GEL compare to other energy gels?
Compared to other energy gels like GU Energy Gel, VEGA SPORT ENDURANCE GEL stands out with its higher potassium and calcium content and the absence of added sugars, relying on natural fruit and grain sources for carbohydrates. Both types of gels aim to provide quick energy, but the specific micronutrient profile and ingredient sourcing can differ.
What is 'ENERGYSOURCE' in the ingredient list?
ENERGYSOURCE is a proprietary blend listed as grape juice and natural rice dextrins. This combination provides a mix of simple and more complex carbohydrates, designed to offer both immediate and sustained energy release during physical activity. It's a key component for the product's function as an endurance fuel.
How much of this gel should I consume daily?
This gel is intended for use during prolonged physical activity, not as a daily dietary staple. For endurance athletes, consuming one packet every 45-60 minutes of exercise is a common recommendation. Daily intake should be based on individual training intensity, duration, and overall dietary needs, and not exceed the requirements of your activity.
Can this product be used by non-athletes?
While designed for athletes, non-athletes could technically consume this product for a quick energy boost. However, its high concentration of carbohydrates and electrolytes is specifically tailored for the demands of intense exercise. For general energy needs, whole food snacks like fruit or nuts would typically be a more balanced and appropriate choice.

Explore more

CategoryAll snacks BrandAll VEGA SKUs Competitor · 0/100Austin Crackers Pb & J 1.38oz Competitor · 0/100BABY RUTH BAR GoalBest foods for constipation GoalBest foods for iron deficiency GoalBest foods for skin Head-to-headVEGA, SPORT, ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT vs. Austin Crackers Pb & J 1.38oz Head-to-headVEGA, SPORT, ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT vs. BABY RUTH BAR Head-to-headVEGA, SPORT, ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT vs. BABY RUTH BURSTING WITH PEANUTS, RICH CARAMEL AND CHEWY NOUGAT BAR, BURSTING WITH PEANUTS, RICH CARAMEL AND CHEWY NOUGAT Head-to-headVEGA, SPORT, ENDURANCE GEL ELECTROLYTE-ENHANCED ENERGY SHOT vs. BABY RUTH DRY ROASTED PEANUTS, RICH CARAMEL AND SMOOTH NOUGAT BAR, DRY CARAMEL PEANUTS, RICH CARAMEL AND SMOOTH NOUGAT

Data & references