Is Carbonated beverage with sweeteners, sparkling cranberry Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed beverage is vegan, we have to look past the marketing and analyze the chemical composition. The primary base of this drink is carbonated water, which is simply water infused with carbon dioxide gas—a process that is entirely plant-free and safe for vegans. The flavor profile comes from cranberry juice from concentrate (0.5%) and additional flavouring. While flavorings can sometimes be a gray area if they utilize dairy derivatives, in this specific formulation, they appear to be synthetic or plant-based isolates.

For preservation, the formula uses potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate. These are standard synthetic preservatives used to inhibit mold and yeast growth. They are chemically synthesized and do not originate from animals. Similarly, the acidity regulators—malic acid, citric acid, and trisodium citrate—are derived from the fermentation of carbohydrates (often corn or beets) and are standard vegan-friendly additives in the food industry.

The most controversial ingredients for many consumers are artificial sweeteners, specifically aspartame and acesulfame K. Aspartame is a methyl ester compound derived from two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. While amino acids are the building blocks of protein, the ones used here are produced synthetically for commercial use, not extracted from animal tissue. Finally, the color comes from vegetable and fruit concentrates (carrot, cranberry). These are exactly what they sound like—reduced fruit and vegetable juices used for color—making them definitively vegan.

Nutritional Value

Because this beverage uses sweeteners instead of sugar, it is very low in calories, making it a popular choice for those managing their caloric intake. However, the use of aspartame and acesulfame K means it contains non-nutritive sweeteners. While these are safe for consumption, they are highly processed. The drink contains negligible fat and protein, as it is primarily water-based. The tiny amount of cranberry juice (0.5%) provides minimal vitamins or minerals, so it shouldn't be relied upon as a source of nutrition. It fits well into a low-calorie diet, but strictly from a hydration and flavor perspective rather than a nutritional one.