Sprite, 12 fl oz cans, 12-pack — DUMP

Munch or Dump rates Sprite, 12 fl oz cans, 12-pack by sprite DUMP — score 17/90.

Sprite is a cleaner-looking soda, with no caffeine and no artificial colors or flavors, but underneath it's still high-fructose corn syrup water carrying about 38 grams of sugar per can. The short ingredient list is honest, yet HFCS and sodium benzoate keep it firmly ultra-processed. It's a treat dressed up as refreshment.

Why this verdict

• About 38 g of sugar per 12 oz can, sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup
• Cleaner than a cola with no caffeine, no artificial color, and no artificial flavor, but still a NOVA-4 sugar-sweetened beverage
• Sodium benzoate preservative and HFCS keep it out of genuine 'simple ingredient' territory
• Zero protein, fiber, or vitamins; it's hydration by sugar water

Ingredients (6)

• Carbonated Water (safe) — Basic component of most beverages, provides fizziness.
• High Fructose Corn Syrup (caution) — The dominant sweetener and second ingredient; drives the sugar load.
• citric acid (safe) — Acidity and tartness adjuster.
• Natural Flavors (safe) — Flavor compounds derived from natural sources.
• sodium citrate (moderate) — Emulsifying salt in the process cheese.
• sodium benzoate (caution) — Chemical preservative for shelf life.