Key findings
- 1Despite being sugar-free, the product contains maltodextrin (a high-glycemic starch derivative), artificial colors, and BHA; all indicators of industrial processing
- 2Less processed alternatives include water infused with real fruit slices or unsweetened sparkling water with a squeeze of citrus, both with no artificial sweeteners or dyes
What goes into Crystal Light products?
Crystal Light's formulation centers on a dual artificial sweetener system: aspartame (a synthetic dipeptide of aspartic acid and phenylalanine) and acesulfame potassium (a synthetic sweetener discovered accidentally in 1967). Using two sweeteners together allows each to be used at lower concentrations, reducing the off-tastes associated with high levels of either one alone. Maltodextrin (a starch derivative produced through enzymatic or acid hydrolysis) provides bulk and mouthfeel that the zero-calorie sweeteners cannot. Citric acid (produced industrially through mold fermentation) provides tartness. Various artificial colors (specific dyes depend on the flavor) create visual appeal. Magnesium oxide is added in some formulations as a flow agent and mineral supplement. BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), a synthetic antioxidant, prevents degradation of the flavor compounds.
How 58 crystal light products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Crystal Light brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a crystal light label
- 1
The dual sweetener system; aspartame and acesulfame potassium; means two different synthetic sweeteners are used together, each at lower individual concentrations
- 2
Maltodextrin is a starch derivative that provides bulk and mouthfeel; it is technically a carbohydrate with a high glycemic index despite appearing in a "sugar-free" product
- 3
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) is a petroleum-derived synthetic antioxidant added to prevent flavor degradation during shelf storage
- 4
Products containing aspartame must carry a phenylalanine warning for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU)
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Frequently asked questions
What artificial sweeteners are in Crystal Light?
In our analysis, Crystal Light uses two artificial sweeteners: aspartame (a synthetic dipeptide) and acesulfame potassium (a synthetic compound discovered in 1967). Using two sweeteners together allows lower concentrations of each, reducing the off-tastes associated with high levels of either one alone.
Is Crystal Light sugar-free?
Crystal Light does not contain sugar, but it does contain maltodextrin: a starch derivative with a high glycemic index that provides bulk and mouthfeel. The sweetness comes from aspartame and acesulfame potassium, both synthetic compounds. The "sugar-free" designation refers specifically to the absence of sucrose, fructose, and other traditional sugars.
What is BHA in Crystal Light?
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) is a synthetic antioxidant added to prevent degradation of flavor compounds during shelf storage. The FDA permits its use at specified concentrations in food products.
Are there less processed drink mix alternatives?
Water infused with real fruit slices or unsweetened sparkling water with a squeeze of citrus provides flavor without synthetic sweeteners, dyes, or BHA. Some drink mixes use stevia (a plant-derived sweetener) instead of aspartame, though they may still contain other processing indicators.