VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA scores 17/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high content of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed beverage.
VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA has a FoodScore of 17/100, indicating it is not a beneficial choice for regular consumption.
This beverage contains 7.63g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, VERNORS is an ultra-processed product with minimal nutritional value.
Compared to plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this soda offers no comparable nutritional benefits.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a daily beverage.
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
7.63g
15% of Daily Value
Sodium
16.02mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (7.6g)-8
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 17
VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA receives a FoodScore of 17/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which is high in components that are recommended for limited intake. The primary factor is the added sugar content, with 7.63g per 100g, primarily from high fructose corn syrup. This contributes a significant penalty to its overall score. Furthermore, VERNORS is classified as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed. This classification incurs an additional penalty, reflecting the extensive industrial processing and the presence of ingredients like natural and artificial flavors and caramel color. The product provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients such as potassium, calcium, or vitamins, leading to an 'empty calories' penalty. In contrast, the reference baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea contains no added sugar, artificial ingredients, or empty calories, highlighting the nutritional difference.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in vernors the original ginger soda actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Hydration Support
While not a primary source of hydration due to its sugar content, VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA does contain carbonated water, which contributes to fluid intake. For individuals who find plain water unappealing, an occasional serving of a flavored beverage like this can help meet daily fluid requirements, though it should not replace water as the main source of hydration. It can be a palatable option in specific situations where other beverages are not preferred.
Occasional Enjoyment
This product can serve as an occasional treat within a balanced dietary pattern. For those who enjoy the specific flavor profile of VERNORS, it can be consumed in moderation without significant impact on overall health, provided the rest of the diet is rich in nutrient-dense foods. The key is to view it as a discretionary calorie source rather than a staple beverage.
Digestive Comfort (Anecdotal)
Historically, ginger ale has been anecdotally used to help settle an upset stomach. While VERNORS contains natural and artificial flavors that include ginger, the actual ginger content is likely minimal and its effectiveness for digestive comfort is not scientifically substantiated for this specific product. However, for some individuals, the carbonation and flavor may provide a perceived soothing effect.
VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA scores 17/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high content of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed beverage.
How to eat it
VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA is typically consumed as a refreshing beverage, often alongside meals or as a standalone drink. It's commonly served chilled and can be a component of mixed drinks. Due to its sugar content, portion control is important.
To reduce sugar intake, consider diluting VERNORS with plain sparkling water to create a lighter beverage.
Pair a small serving of VERNORS with a nutrient-dense meal to help balance the overall nutritional impact.
Use VERNORS as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage choice; opt for unsweetened options most often.
For a lower-sugar alternative with a similar flavor profile, try brewing ginger tea and chilling it.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA relates to its high added sugar content, primarily from high fructose corn syrup. Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with increased risk of dental caries, weight gain, and type 2 diabetes. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution or avoid it entirely. The presence of sodium benzoate as a preservative and caramel color are common food additives, generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, but some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of ultra-processed foods containing such ingredients.
Based on its FoodScore of 17/100, VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is an ultra-processed beverage high in added sugars and provides minimal to no essential nutrients. It is best consumed as an occasional treat rather than a staple in your diet.
How does VERNORS compare to other sodas?
VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA is comparable to other regular sodas like Coca-Cola or Pepsi in terms of its high added sugar content and lack of nutritional value. While it offers a distinct ginger flavor, its nutritional profile places it in the same category as other sugar-sweetened carbonated beverages, which are generally recommended for limited intake.
What is high fructose corn syrup?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch that has been processed to convert some of its glucose into fructose. It is a common ingredient in many processed foods and beverages, including VERNORS, and contributes to the product's overall added sugar content. From a nutritional standpoint, it is metabolically similar to table sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for VERNORS?
A reasonable portion size for VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA, given its high sugar content, would be the 7.5 oz serving size indicated on the label, and only on an occasional basis. Limiting intake to this amount helps manage the amount of added sugar consumed from this product within a day. For daily hydration, prioritize water or unsweetened beverages.
Can VERNORS help with an upset stomach?
While ginger is known for its potential to aid digestion, the amount of actual ginger in VERNORS THE ORIGINAL GINGER SODA is likely minimal, with its flavor primarily coming from natural and artificial flavors. Therefore, its effectiveness in settling an upset stomach is largely anecdotal and not supported by the nutritional data for this specific product. For true ginger benefits, consider fresh ginger tea.