Is Alpaca cola Keto?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look at the sweeteners first when evaluating a product for the Keto diet. In Alpaca cola, the sweetness comes from Stevia and Erythritol. Unlike the sugar and glucose syrup found in regular sodas, these are non-nutritive sweeteners. They do not spike blood glucose or insulin levels, which is the primary requirement for maintaining ketosis.

The flavor profile is maintained using natural aromas and citric acid. These ingredients are negligible in terms of carbohydrate load. The color comes from plant concentrates like black carrot and safflower, which are natural and completely keto-compliant. The ingredient list also mentions sunflower oil and carnauba wax. These are used as glazing agents to give the drink a shine and prevent stickiness; they contribute trace amounts of fat and zero carbs, which actually fits well within the high-fat macros of a keto diet.

There is one specific flag to be aware of regarding strict dietary restrictions. The label states: Kan melk bevatten (May contain milk). While this is an allergen cross-contamination warning rather than a direct ingredient, it is crucial for those with severe dairy allergies or strict Paleo dieters to note.

Nutritional Value

When analyzing the nutritional value of Alpaca cola for a Keto context, the numbers are favorable. A standard serving contains 0 grams of sugar and 0 grams of carbohydrates. This is achieved by replacing the high-fructose corn syrup found in traditional sodas with stevia and erythritol.

Regarding calories, because the sweeteners used do not provide energy in the same way sugar does, the caloric density is extremely low. This makes it an excellent alternative to high-calorie sugary drinks if you are watching your daily energy intake. However, it is important to remember that while it fits your macros, it offers no micronutrients or fiber. It should be treated as an occasional treat rather than a hydration staple.