Nectar Carrot Banana Apple
by Square
Despite the healthy-sounding name with vegetables and fruits, this is essentially flavored sugar water with added synthetic vitamins. The addition of sugar or glucose-fructose syrup to naturally sweet fruits creates a high-sugar beverage that spikes blood sugar and provides minimal nutritional value compared to whole produce.
- Water – safe · Primary ingredient used as the liquid base for the beverage.
- Carrot Puree – beneficial · Processed carrot providing some beta-carotene and nutrients, though most fiber is removed in puree form.
- Banana Puree – beneficial · Processed banana providing potassium and natural sugars, though fiber content is reduced.
- Apple Puree – beneficial · Processed apple providing some vitamins and natural sugars, though most beneficial fiber is removed.
- Sugar – controversial · Added refined sugar unnecessary given the natural sweetness of fruits, contributing to blood sugar spikes and empty calories.
- Glucose-Fructose Syrup – controversial · High-fructose corn syrup alternative that bypasses satiety signals and may contribute to metabolic dysfunction.
- Citric Acid – safe · Natural acid used for preservation and taste enhancement, generally recognized as safe.
- Apple Acid (Malic Acid) – safe · Naturally occurring acid that enhances tartness and flavor, commonly found in apples.
- Vitamin C – beneficial · Added ascorbic acid for nutritional fortification and antioxidant properties.
- Aromas – controversial · Artificial flavoring agents that mask the diluted taste from added water and sugars.
Contains real fruit and vegetable purees
Fortified with vitamin C
No artificial sweeteners
Unnecessary added sugars
High sugar content overall
Artificial flavoring
Minimal fiber compared to whole produce
Ultra-processed despite healthy ingredients