Does Recess contain dairy or gluten?

No, Recess is dairy-free and gluten-free. It is suitable for vegans and those with celiac disease or lactose intolerance.

Is Recess good for weight loss?

Yes, with only about 35 calories and minimal sugar per can, it is an excellent low-calorie alternative to soda or juice that can help satisfy cravings for a sweet, fizzy drink.

Where can I buy Recess?

Recess is widely available at major retailers like Target and Whole Foods, as well as online through Amazon and their direct-to-consumer website.

Is Recess safe for kids?

While the ingredients are generally safe, Recess contains L-theanine and magnesium, which are functional supplements. It is best to consult a pediatrician before giving it to children, despite the lack of caffeine.

Is Recess Halal?

Yes, Recess is halal. After analyzing the ingredient list of their standard Cherry Tea flavor, we found no animal-derived ingredients, alcohol, or other prohibited substances. It is a plant-based beverage that aligns with halal dietary guidelines.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, the first thing I look for in a beverage like Recess are the 'red flag' ingredients that often compromise halal status: animal by-products, alcohol, and hidden enzymes. Recess actually passes this initial inspection with flying colors. The base of the drink is filtered water and a cherry tea infusion, which is simply dried cherries steeped in water. This is a clean, plant-based foundation.

Next, we look at the functional ingredients. The Recess magnesium blend consists of magnesium L-threonate, magnesium ascorbate, and vitamin B6. These are synthetic or mineral-derived compounds, not animal products. While some vitamins can be derived from non-halal sources (like gelatin capsules), these are in powdered form and are generally considered halal. The inclusion of L-theanine (an amino acid found in tea) and monk fruit extract (a natural sweetener) further confirms the plant-based nature of the product. There are no emulsifiers like mono- and diglycerides which can sometimes be animal-sourced, nor is there any glycerin.

Finally, the flavor profile comes from natural flavors, tart cherry powder, and lemon balm powder. In the food industry, 'natural flavors' can be a gray area, but in a product marketed as a 'sparkling herbal infusion' with no dairy or meat ingredients, these are almost certainly derived from botanical sources. There is no indication of wine or beer bases, which are common in some other 'relaxation' drinks. Therefore, from a strictly chemical and sourcing perspective, Recess is halal.

Nutritional Value

Recess positions itself as a functional beverage, and its nutritional profile reflects that. A standard can contains roughly 35 to 45 calories, which is very low compared to traditional sodas or juices. The sweetness comes primarily from cherry juice concentrate and monk fruit extract. This keeps the sugar content minimal—usually around 2 to 4 grams per can. This is a significant benefit for those monitoring their sugar intake, as it avoids the sugar spikes associated with high-fructose corn syrup.

The 'functional' aspect comes from the added minerals and botanicals. The magnesium and L-theanine are included to promote a sense of calm and focus without the heavy sedation of melatonin or the jitters of caffeine. It fits well into a diet focused on low-calorie, low-sugar hydration. However, it is not a significant source of macronutrients like protein or fiber; think of it as a healthy enhancement to your water intake rather than a meal replacement.