Drinks — FOOD LABELS

No. 001 · Drinks · Added 01 Sept 2026

Monster Energy (Green, Original)

Monster Energy Company · 1 can (16 fl oz / 473 ml)

54g sugar/ serving → 216% of adult daily limit

230kcal/serving

Double the caffeine of a Red Bull or Ride can, on top of a full day's added-sugar limit for a young child in a single 473ml can — and guarana extract layered on top means there's caffeine beyond what the caffeine line alone suggests.

Contains caffeine (160 mg/can, from multiple sources including guarana)Label states not recommended for children, people sensitive to caffeine, or pregnant/nursing womenContains two preservatives (sorbic acid and benzoic acid)

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar54g / serving

Adult216%

Child 9–13270%

Child 4–8360%

sodium370mg / serving

Adult19%

Child 9–1325%

Child 4–831%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	230 kcal
Total carbohydrates	58 g
Dietary fibre	—
Total sugar	54 g
— naturally occurring	0 g
— added	54 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
Sodium	370 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Carbonated Water, Sugar, Glucose, Citric Acid, Natural Flavors, Taurine, Sodium Citrate, Color Added, Panax Ginseng Extract, L-Carnitine L-Tartrate, Caffeine, Sorbic Acid (Preservative), Benzoic Acid (Preservative), Niacinamide (Vit. B3), Sucralose, Salt, D-Glucuronolactone, Inositol, Guarana Extract, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vit. B6), Riboflavin (Vit. B2), Maltodextrin, Cyanocobalamin (Vit. B12).

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

Taurine

Amino-sulfonic acid the body also produces naturally. Considered safe at typical energy-drink levels; long-term interaction with caffeine in adolescents is less studied.

Sodium Citrate (INS 331)

Acidity regulator/buffering salt derived from citric acid. Low concern, minor sodium contributor.

Panax Ginseng Extract

An herbal extract traditionally used for energy/stamina. Generally recognised as safe at food-use levels; can interact with certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) with regular/heavy consumption.

L-Carnitine L-Tartrate

An amino-acid-derivative ingredient marketed for energy metabolism. Considered safe at typical energy-drink doses.

Caffeine

Stimulant. Guidance generally advises against regular caffeine intake for young children; this pack states "not recommended for children under 3."

Sorbic Acid (INS 200)

Common preservative that inhibits mould and yeast growth. Well-studied, low concern, generally recognised as safe.

Benzoic Acid (INS 210)

Preservative closely related to sodium benzoate. Carries the same low-level trace-benzene concern when combined with vitamin C plus heat/light exposure, though typical exposure is considered well within safe limits by regulators.

Sucralose (INS 955)

Artificial sweetener, approved by FDA/EFSA as safe. Some newer studies suggest possible gut-microbiome effects at high intake — evidence still developing.

D-Glucuronolactone

A compound the body also produces naturally, commonly added to energy drinks alongside taurine. Considered safe at typical energy-drink levels, though its long-term effects at these doses in adolescents are less studied.

Inositol

Naturally occurring carbohydrate-like compound also found in the body and many whole foods. No established safety concern at energy-drink levels.

Guarana Extract

A plant extract naturally rich in caffeine, often added to energy drinks on top of separately-listed caffeine — meaning total caffeine can be higher than the "Caffeine" ingredient line alone suggests.

Maltodextrin

Highly processed carbohydrate used as a flavour carrier/bulking agent. Not a toxicity concern, but has a high glycemic index and adds to overall carb load.

No. 002 · Drinks · Added 01 Sept 2026

Starbucks Doubleshot Energy (Mocha)

Starbucks (North American Coffee Partnership) · 1 can (15 fl oz / 443 ml)

29g sugar/ serving → 116% of adult daily limit

210kcal/serving

Real coffee and 10g of protein set it apart from typical energy drinks, but it still carries a full can of added sugar on top of a hefty B-vitamin megadose (up to 260% DV).

Contains milkFortified with vitamins A, C, D, B2, B3, B6Contains ginseng root extract and guarana seed extract (both caffeine-adjacent/stimulant ingredients) — no explicit total caffeine-per-can figure was visible on the photographed panel

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar29g / serving

Adult116%

Child 9–13145%

Child 4–8193%

sodium170mg / serving

Adult9%

Child 9–1311%

Child 4–814%

Saturated fat1.5g / serving

Adult8%

Child 9–139%

Child 4–812%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	210 kcal
Total carbohydrates	35 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	29 g
— naturally occurring	17 g
— added	12 g
Protein	10 g
Total fat	3 g
— saturated	1.5 g
— trans	0 g
Cholesterol	15 mg
Sodium	170 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Brewed Starbucks Coffee (Water, Coffee), Reduced-Fat Milk, Skim Milk, Sugar, Maltodextrin, Dextrose, Taurine, Natural Flavors, Cellulose Gel, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Inositol, Sodium Ascorbate, Guarana (Paullinia Cupana) Seed Extract, Cellulose Gum, Niacinamide, Sucralose, Tricalcium Phosphate, Carrageenan, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3.

Coffee

Contributes an unstated amount of caffeine via the mocha filling — unlike most chocolates in this set, this one carries coffee as a direct ingredient rather than just flavouring.

Maltodextrin

Highly processed carbohydrate used as a flavour carrier/bulking agent. Not a toxicity concern, but has a high glycemic index and adds to overall carb load.

Taurine

Amino-sulfonic acid the body also produces naturally. Considered safe at typical energy-drink levels; long-term interaction with caffeine in adolescents is less studied.

Cellulose Gum / Cellulose Gel

Plant-fibre-derived thickeners/stabilisers. Low concern at typical food-use levels.

Panax Ginseng Extract

An herbal extract traditionally used for energy/stamina. Generally recognised as safe at food-use levels; can interact with certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) with regular/heavy consumption.

Inositol

Naturally occurring carbohydrate-like compound also found in the body and many whole foods. No established safety concern at energy-drink levels.

Sodium Ascorbate (INS 301)

A buffered form of Vitamin C used both as a nutrient and mild antioxidant/preservative. Low concern, essentially a nutrient.

Guarana Extract

Sucralose (INS 955)

Artificial sweetener, approved by FDA/EFSA as safe. Some newer studies suggest possible gut-microbiome effects at high intake — evidence still developing.

Tricalcium Phosphate (INS 341iii)

Mineral salt used as an anticaking agent and calcium source. Low concern, also a nutrient.

Carrageenan (INS 407)

Seaweed-derived thickener. FDA/JECFA approved, but some researchers and consumer groups (CSPI) flag possible gut inflammation, especially degraded forms.

No. 003 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Kotmale Chocolate Milk (Ready to Drink)

Kotmale · 180 ml

22.75g sugar/ serving → 91% of adult daily limit

153.54kcal/serving

More sugar per 100ml than Milo's ready-to-drink chocolate milk, most of it added rather than from the milk itself.

No preservatives added (per label)

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar22.75g / serving

Adult91%

Child 9–13114%

Child 4–8152%

sodium93.6mg / serving

Adult5%

Child 9–136%

Child 4–88%

Saturated fat3g / serving

Adult15%

Child 9–1318%

Child 4–823%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	153.54 kcal
Total carbohydrates	25.2 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	22.75 g
— naturally occurring	6.33 g
— added	16.41 g
Protein	5.22 g
Total fat	4.14 g
— saturated	3 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	93.6 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Raw Milk, Skimmed Milk, Whey Liquid, Sugar, Cocoa Powder, Permitted Food Emulsifiers & Stabilizers (Sodium Alginate – INS 401, Carrageenan – INS 407, Guar Gum – INS 412, Mono and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids – INS 471), Artificial Chocolate Flavor, Trisodium Phosphate – INS 339(iii), Trisodium Citrate – INS 331(iii)

Sodium Alginate (INS 401)

Seaweed-derived thickener/stabiliser. Well-studied, low concern at food-use levels.

Trisodium Phosphate (INS 339iii)

Emulsifying salt/acidity regulator, same phosphate family as disodium phosphate. Low concern at typical levels, contributes to overall phosphate intake.

Carrageenan (INS 407)

Seaweed-derived thickener. FDA/JECFA approved, but some researchers and consumer groups (CSPI) flag possible gut inflammation, especially degraded forms.

Guar Gum (INS 412)

Plant-derived thickener. Well-studied, low concern at food-use levels.

Mono- & Diglycerides of Fatty Acids (INS 471)

Common emulsifier, generally recognised as safe. Can occasionally derive from partially hydrogenated oils — worth checking if trans-fat sensitive.

Tri-Sodium Citrate (INS 331iii)

Same citrate-salt family as sodium citrate; buffering agent. Low concern, minor sodium contributor.

No. 004 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Milo Powder (Chocolate Malt Drink Mix)

Nestlé (Nestlé Lanka Limited) · 18 g Milo + 15 g full cream milk powder

15.8g sugar/ serving → 63% of adult daily limit

150kcal/serving

Fortified with a full spread of vitamins and minerals, but over a third of the carbs in a mixed serving are sugar, split between malt-derived and added sucrose.

Contains barley (gluten)Fortified with vitamins C, D, B2, B3, B6, B12 and minerals calcium, phosphorus, iron

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar15.8g / serving

Adult63%

Child 9–1379%

Child 4–8105%

sodium80mg / serving

Adult4%

Child 9–135%

Child 4–87%

Saturated fat3.5g / serving

Adult18%

Child 9–1321%

Child 4–827%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	150 kcal
Total carbohydrates	18.1 g
Dietary fibre	0.6 g
Total sugar	15.8 g
— added	4.9 g
Protein	6 g
Total fat	5.9 g
— saturated	3.5 g
— trans	0.15 g
Sodium	80 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Malt Extract (34%) (contains Barley), Sugar, Milk Solids (21%), Cocoa Powder (9%), Palm Oil, Minerals (Dicalcium Phosphate, Ferric Pyrophosphate), Vitamins (C, D3, B2, B3, B6, B12), Disodium Phosphate (INS 339ii), Sodium Carbonate (INS 500i)

Malt Extract (Barley)

Natural flavouring/sweetening ingredient. Contains gluten — relevant for anyone with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Dicalcium Phosphate (INS 341ii)

Calcium fortification salt, also used as an anticaking agent. Low concern, essentially a nutrient source.

Ferric Pyrophosphate

Iron fortification compound. Low concern, though its iron bioavailability is somewhat lower than other iron forms.

Disodium Phosphate (INS 339ii)

Emulsifying salt/acidity regulator common in dairy and processed foods. Low concern at typical levels; contributes to overall phosphate and sodium intake.

Sodium Carbonate (INS 500i)

Alkalising agent/acidity regulator. Low concern at food-use levels.

No. 005 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Kotmale Vanilla Milk (UHT Flavoured Milk)

Kotmale · 180 ml

19.62g sugar/ serving → 78% of adult daily limit

136.8kcal/serving

Most of the sugar here is added rather than naturally from the milk, and it's coloured with two synthetic dyes (carmoisine and tartrazine) that carry an EU hyperactivity warning label.

Contains synthetic colours Carmoisine (INS 122) and Tartrazine (INS 102) — both part of the "Southampton Six" linked to hyperactivity in some children under EU labelling rules

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar19.62g / serving

Adult78%

Child 9–1398%

Child 4–8131%

sodium83.52mg / serving

Adult4%

Child 9–136%

Child 4–87%

Saturated fat3.01g / serving

Adult15%

Child 9–1318%

Child 4–823%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	136.8 kcal
Total carbohydrates	19.98 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	19.62 g
— naturally occurring	5.63 g
— added	13.99 g
Protein	4.5 g
Total fat	4.32 g
— saturated	3.01 g
— trans	0.14 g
— monounsaturated	1.21 g
— polyunsaturated	0.11 g
Cholesterol	11.45 mg
Sodium	83.52 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Cows' Milk, Sugar, Mono and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids (INS 471), Carrageenan (INS 407), Guar Gum (INS 412), Natural Vanilla Flavour, Colour Carmosine (INS 122) & Tartrazine (INS 102)

Carmoisine (INS 122)

Synthetic red azo dye, one of the "Southampton Six" colours a UK study linked to increased hyperactivity in some children — requires a warning label in the EU.

Tartrazine (INS 102)

Synthetic yellow azo dye, also one of the "Southampton Six." Can trigger reactions in aspirin-sensitive individuals, alongside the same EU hyperactivity labelling requirement.

Mono- & Diglycerides of Fatty Acids (INS 471)

Common emulsifier, generally recognised as safe. Can occasionally derive from partially hydrogenated oils — worth checking if trans-fat sensitive.

Carrageenan (INS 407)

Seaweed-derived thickener. FDA/JECFA approved, but some researchers and consumer groups (CSPI) flag possible gut inflammation, especially degraded forms.

Guar Gum (INS 412)

Plant-derived thickener. Well-studied, low concern at food-use levels.

No. 006 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Milo Chocolate Ready-to-Drink Milk

Nestlé (Nestlé Lanka Limited) · 180 ml

15.4g sugar/ serving → 62% of adult daily limit

122kcal/serving

Naturally sweetened in part with monk fruit alongside added sugar — a lower-sugar take on chocolate milk than most, at just over half the sugar of Kotmale's chocolate milk per 100ml.

Contains barley (gluten) and soyFortified with vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, D, E

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar15.4g / serving

Adult62%

Child 9–1377%

Child 4–8103%

sodium97mg / serving

Adult5%

Child 9–136%

Child 4–88%

Saturated fat2g / serving

Adult10%

Child 9–1312%

Child 4–815%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	122 kcal
Total carbohydrates	17.8 g
Dietary fibre	1.1 g
Total sugar	15.4 g
— added	8 g
Protein	4.3 g
Total fat	3.7 g
— saturated	2 g
— trans	0.17 g
Sodium	97 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Whole Milk (50%), Milk Solids, Sugar, Malt Extract (3%) (contains Barley), Cocoa Powder (1%), Gellan Gum (INS 418), Monk Fruit Juice Concentrate, Guar Gum (INS 412), Dicalcium Phosphate (INS 341ii), Sodium Carbonate (INS 500i), Magnesium Carbonate (INS 504i), Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, D, E, Disodium Phosphate (INS 339ii), Soya Lecithin (INS 322), Natural Vanilla Flavour, Ferric Pyrophosphate

Gellan Gum (INS 418)

Fermentation-derived thickener/stabiliser. Well-studied, low concern at food-use levels.

Monk Fruit Juice Concentrate

Natural high-intensity sweetener from monk fruit. Considered safe, no major concerns identified in current research.

Magnesium Carbonate (i) (INS 504i)

Acidity regulator/anticaking agent. Low concern at food-use levels. Distinct from the (ii) form already listed above.

Malt Extract (Barley)

Natural flavouring/sweetening ingredient. Contains gluten — relevant for anyone with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Guar Gum (INS 412)

Plant-derived thickener. Well-studied, low concern at food-use levels.

Soya Lecithin

Common emulsifier from soybeans. Low concern except for those with soy allergy.

Dicalcium Phosphate (INS 341ii)

Calcium fortification salt, also used as an anticaking agent. Low concern, essentially a nutrient source.

No. 007 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Nestomalt (Malted Food Drink)

Nestlé (Nestlé Lanka PLC) · 28 g (1 cup as mixed; label recommends 3 cups/day)

123.2mg sodium/ serving → 6% of adult daily limit

115.36kcal/serving

A fortified malt drink in the same family as Milo — similar carb-heavy, sugar-moderate profile, with its own spread of B-vitamins plus calcium and iron.

Contains barley (gluten) and soyFortified with Vitamin C, B1, B2, B3 (Niacin), B5, B6, B8 (Biotin), B12, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron

Per serving vs. daily limit

sodium123.2mg / serving

Adult6%

Child 9–138%

Child 4–810%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	115.36 kcal
Total carbohydrates	20.94 g
Dietary fibre	—
Total sugar	—
Protein	2.63 g
Total fat	2.35 g
Sodium	123.2 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Malt Extract (Contains Barley), Milk Solids, Palm Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Soya Lecithin, Iodized Salt, Sodium Bicarbonate, Vitamins, Magnesium Phosphate, Colour Caramel (INS 150a), Ferric Pyrophosphate

Malt Extract (Barley)

Natural flavouring/sweetening ingredient. Contains gluten — relevant for anyone with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Calcium Carbonate

Common calcium fortification mineral. Low concern, essentially a nutrient source.

Soya Lecithin

Common emulsifier from soybeans. Low concern except for those with soy allergy.

Sodium Bicarbonate (INS 500ii)

Common buffering/raising agent (baking soda). Low concern, negligible sodium contribution.

Magnesium Phosphate

Mineral fortificant supplying magnesium and phosphorus. Low concern, essentially a nutrient source.

Caramel Colour I (INS 150a)

"Plain" caramel colour made without ammonia or sulphites — the lowest-concern of the four caramel colour classes; no 4-MEI flag (unlike Class IV / INS 150d).

Ferric Pyrophosphate

Iron fortification compound. Low concern, though its iron bioavailability is somewhat lower than other iron forms.

No. 008 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Red Bull Energy Drink (Original)

Red Bull (manufactured by Rauch Fruchtsäfte GmbH & Co OG, Austria, for Red Bull Asia FZE; imported/distributed by Stassen Foods (Pvt) Ltd) · 250 ml (1 can)

27g sugar/ serving → 108% of adult daily limit

115kcal/serving

One can alone carries more sugar than a young child's whole daily limit, on top of an adult-strength dose of caffeine.

Contains caffeine (80 mg/can)Pack states not recommended for children under 12, pregnant/breastfeeding women, or caffeine-sensitive individualsMax 2 cans/day per label

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar27g / serving

Adult108%

Child 9–13135%

Child 4–8180%

sodium103mg / serving

Adult5%

Child 9–137%

Child 4–89%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	115 kcal
Total carbohydrates	27 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	27 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
Sodium	103 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Carbonated Water, Sucrose, Glucose, Citric Acid (INS 330), Taurine (0.4%), Sodium Bicarbonate (INS 500(ii)), Natural and Artificial (Fruit Blend – Vanilla and Pineapple) Flavours, Magnesium Carbonate (INS 504(ii)), Caramel Colour I (INS 150a), Caffeine (32 mg/100 ml), Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B6, Riboflavin, Vitamin B12

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

Taurine

Amino-sulfonic acid the body also produces naturally. Considered safe at typical energy-drink levels; long-term interaction with caffeine in adolescents is less studied.

Sodium Bicarbonate (INS 500ii)

Common buffering/raising agent (baking soda). Low concern, negligible sodium contribution.

Magnesium Carbonate (INS 504ii)

Acidity regulator/anticaking agent. Low concern at food-use levels.

Caramel Colour I (INS 150a)

"Plain" caramel colour made without ammonia or sulphites — the lowest-concern of the four caramel colour classes; no 4-MEI flag (unlike Class IV / INS 150d).

Caffeine

Stimulant. Guidance generally advises against regular caffeine intake for young children; this pack states "not recommended for children under 3."

No. 009 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Sprite

The Coca-Cola Company (Coca-Cola Beverages Sri Lanka Ltd.) · 250 ml (from 1.5 L bottle)

25g sugar/ serving → 100% of adult daily limit

100kcal/serving

A full adult daily sugar allowance in a single glass, with no caffeine or other trade-off to offset it.

Sugar is the only meaningful nutrientOne serving matches or exceeds daily sugar limits for children and adults alikeNo caffeine

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar25g / serving

Adult100%

Child 9–13125%

Child 4–8167%

sodium9.43mg / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–131%

Child 4–81%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	100 kcal
Total carbohydrates	25 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	25 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	9.43 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Carbonated Water, Sugar, Citric Acid (INS 330), Tri-Sodium Citrate (INS 331(iii)), Sodium Benzoate (INS 211), Natural Lemon Flavours

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

Tri-Sodium Citrate (INS 331iii)

Same citrate-salt family as sodium citrate; buffering agent. Low concern, minor sodium contributor.

Sodium Benzoate (INS 211)

Common preservative, generally recognised as safe. Can form trace benzene when combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) plus heat/light — a longstanding, low-level concern; typical exposure considered well within safe limits by regulators.

No. 010 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Smak Mango Drink

Smak · 200 ml (1 tetra pack)

23g sugar/ serving → 92% of adult daily limit

94.4kcal/serving

Most of the sugar here is added rather than coming from the 25% mango pulp, and one pack alone uses up most of a young child's daily sugar allowance.

25% fruit pulpLabel states no added colours, sweeteners, or preservatives

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar23g / serving

Adult92%

Child 9–13115%

Child 4–8153%

sodium7.8mg / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–131%

Child 4–81%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	94.4 kcal
Total carbohydrates	23 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	23 g
— naturally occurring	6.4 g
— added	16.6 g
Protein	0.6 g
Total fat	0 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
— monounsaturated	0 g
— polyunsaturated	0 g
Cholesterol	0 mg
Sodium	7.8 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Water, Mango Pulp (25%), Sugar, Stabilizer – Xanthan Gum (INS 415), Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (INS 466), Ascorbic Acid (INS 300), Citric Acid (INS 330)

Xanthan Gum (INS 415)

Fermentation-derived thickener. Well-studied, low concern; mild laxative effect only at high doses.

Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (INS 466)

Common stabiliser/thickener. Low concern at typical food-use levels.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) (INS 300)

Vitamin C, used here as a natural antioxidant/preservative. No concern — it's a nutrient.

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

No. 011 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Ride Energy Drink

Ride (Cargills) · 250 ml (1 can)

21.75g sugar/ serving → 87% of adult daily limit

89kcal/serving

A slightly smaller sugar hit than Red Bull, but this one adds sodium benzoate as a preservative alongside the same caffeine dose.

Contains caffeine (80 mg/can)Contains preservative sodium benzoateNo age-restriction statement visible in the photographed section

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar21.75g / serving

Adult87%

Child 9–13109%

Child 4–8145%

sodium237.5mg / serving

Adult12%

Child 9–1316%

Child 4–820%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	89 kcal
Total carbohydrates	22 g
Dietary fibre	—
Total sugar	21.75 g
Protein	0.25 g
Total fat	0 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	237.5 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Carbonated Water, Sugar, Glucose-Fructose Syrup, Citric Acid (INS 330), Sodium Citrate (INS 331), Taurine (400 mg/100 ml), Caffeine (32 mg/100 ml), Natural Caramel Colour (INS 150c), Inositol, Artificial (Raspberry, Strawberry, Blackcurrant, Vanilla) Flavours, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Permitted Preservative – Sodium Benzoate (INS 211)

Sodium Citrate (INS 331)

Acidity regulator/buffering salt derived from citric acid. Low concern, minor sodium contributor.

Natural Caramel Colour (INS 150c)

Ammonia-process caramel colour class. Low concern, distinct from the sulphite-ammonia Class IV (INS 150d) that carries the 4-MEI flag.

Inositol

Naturally occurring carbohydrate-like compound also found in the body and many whole foods. No established safety concern at energy-drink levels.

Sodium Benzoate (INS 211)

Caffeine

Stimulant. Guidance generally advises against regular caffeine intake for young children; this pack states "not recommended for children under 3."

Taurine

Amino-sulfonic acid the body also produces naturally. Considered safe at typical energy-drink levels; long-term interaction with caffeine in adolescents is less studied.

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

No. 012 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Kist Apple Juice

Kist (Cargills) · 200 ml (5 servings per 1 L pack)

21.8g sugar/ serving → 87% of adult daily limit

88kcal/serving

A genuinely clean juice — 100% apple, no added sugar, colours, flavours, or preservatives — though it still delivers as much sugar per serving as most of the sodas in this set, just naturally.

No added sugar, preservatives, colours, or flavours (per label)

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar21.8g / serving

Adult87%

Child 9–13109%

Child 4–8145%

sodium6.8mg / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–81%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	88 kcal
Total carbohydrates	22 g
Dietary fibre	—
Total sugar	21.8 g
— naturally occurring	21.8 g
— added	0 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	6.8 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

100% Natural Red Apple Juice from Concentrate

No. 013 · Drinks · Added 15 Aug 2026

Coca-Cola

The Coca-Cola Company · 250 ml

17.5g sugar/ serving → 70% of adult daily limit

70kcal/serving

Sugar alone eats a large share of a child's daily limit in one serving, and it comes with caffeine and a couple of additives worth knowing about.

Contains caffeinePack states: not recommended for children under 3Contains an artificial sweetener

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar17.5g / serving

Adult70%

Child 9–1388%

Child 4–8117%

sodium1.27mg / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	70 kcal
Total carbohydrates	17.5 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	17.5 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	1.27 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Carbonated Water, Sugar, Phosphoric Acid (INS 338), Caffeine, Caramel Colour (INS 150d), Sucralose (INS 955), Natural Cola-Type Flavours

Phosphoric Acid (INS 338)

Acidulant/flavouring in colas. Linked in studies to dental erosion and, with heavy long-term cola intake, lower bone density (EFSA).

Caffeine

Stimulant. Guidance generally advises against regular caffeine intake for young children; this pack states "not recommended for children under 3."

Caramel Colour IV (INS 150d)

Can contain trace 4-MEI, which California Prop 65 lists as a possible carcinogen; JECFA/EFSA consider levels in cola-type drinks within safe limits.

Sucralose (INS 955)

Artificial sweetener, approved by FDA/EFSA as safe. Some newer studies suggest possible gut-microbiome effects at high intake — evidence still developing.

No. 014 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Pelican Cola

Pelican · 200 ml (1 serving per bottle)

17.2g sugar/ serving → 69% of adult daily limit

69kcal/serving

A lower-sugar cola than the big international brands, but it uses the same Class IV caramel colour and phosphoric acid as Coca-Cola.

Contains phosphoric acidNo caffeine declared on the photographed label

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar17.2g / serving

Adult69%

Child 9–1386%

Child 4–8115%

sodium9.6mg / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–131%

Child 4–81%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	69 kcal
Total carbohydrates	17.2 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	17.2 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	9.6 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Carbonated Water, Sugar, Natural Cola Flavour, Citric Acid (INS 330), Phosphoric Acid (INS 338), Cinnamon Extract, Nature Identical Caramel Flavour, Caramel Colour (INS 150d)

Phosphoric Acid (INS 338)

Acidulant/flavouring in colas. Linked in studies to dental erosion and, with heavy long-term cola intake, lower bone density (EFSA).

Caramel Colour IV (INS 150d)

Can contain trace 4-MEI, which California Prop 65 lists as a possible carcinogen; JECFA/EFSA consider levels in cola-type drinks within safe limits.

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

No. 015 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Kotmale Fresh Milk (100%)

Kotmale · 100 ml

4.3g sugar/ serving → 17% of adult daily limit

65.7kcal/serving

The cleanest product in this whole set — just cow's milk, nothing else, and the only sugar is what's naturally in milk.

No preservatives added (per label)Single-ingredient product

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar4.3g / serving

Adult17%

Child 9–1322%

Child 4–829%

sodium46mg / serving

Adult2%

Child 9–133%

Child 4–84%

Saturated fat2.32g / serving

Adult12%

Child 9–1314%

Child 4–818%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	65.7 kcal
Total carbohydrates	5.2 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	4.3 g
— naturally occurring	4.3 g
— added	0 g
Protein	3.1 g
Total fat	3.6 g
— saturated	2.32 g
— trans	0.05 g
Sodium	46 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

100% Fresh Cow's Milk

No. 016 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Sunquick Orange (Triple Concentrate)

Sunquick · 200 ml after dilution (~15 servings/bottle)

15g sugar/ serving → 60% of adult daily limit

65kcal/serving

Diluted down to a normal glass of juice, one serving still uses up a full day's added-sugar limit for a young child, and it's preserved with a sulphite worth flagging for sulphite-sensitive drinkers.

Contains milk-derived ingredient and sulphites (declared allergens on pack)Contains added preservatives

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar15g / serving

Adult60%

Child 9–1375%

Child 4–8100%

sodium18mg / serving

Adult1%

Child 9–131%

Child 4–82%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	65 kcal
Total carbohydrates	15.1 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	15 g
— naturally occurring	0 g
— added	15 g
Protein	0.2 g
Total fat	0.2 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	18 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Sugar, Orange Juice from Concentrate, Water, Acidity Regulator Citric Acid (INS 330), Potassium Dihydrogen Citrate (INS 332(i)), Natural Orange Flavouring, Stabilizer (Cellulose Gum (INS 466), Pectin (INS 440), Guar Gum (INS 412)), Preservative (Potassium Sorbate (INS 202), Sodium Hydrogen Sulphite (INS 222)), Natural Colour (β-apo-8'-carotenal (INS 160e)), Vitamin C, Vitamin A. Contains: Milk (origin unspecified on label), Sulphite.

Potassium Dihydrogen Citrate (INS 332i)

Acidity regulator/buffering salt. Low concern.

Pectin (INS 440)

Natural fruit-derived thickener/gelling agent; also a source of soluble fibre. Very low concern.

Potassium Sorbate (INS 202)

Widely used, well-studied preservative considered safe; can occasionally trigger mild sensitivity in preservative-sensitive individuals.

Sodium Hydrogen Sulphite (INS 222)

Sulphite preservative. Can trigger reactions (including asthma symptoms) in sulphite-sensitive individuals — a declared allergen.

β-apo-8'-carotenal (INS 160e)

Nature-identical carotenoid colour with some vitamin A activity. Approved food colour, low concern.

Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (INS 466)

Common stabiliser/thickener. Low concern at typical food-use levels.

Guar Gum (INS 412)

Plant-derived thickener. Well-studied, low concern at food-use levels.

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

No. 017 · Drinks · Added 15 Aug 2026

Coconut Water

Vita Coco / Silvermill Natural Beverages · 250 ml (4 servings/pack)

10.63g sugar/ serving → 43% of adult daily limit

45kcal/serving

The benchmark in this set — almost all of the sugar is naturally occurring, not added, and every ingredient is well-studied and low concern.

99% coconut waterAdded sugar under 1g/servingNo artificial ingredients

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar10.63g / serving

Adult43%

Child 9–1353%

Child 4–871%

sodium62.5mg / serving

Adult3%

Child 9–134%

Child 4–85%

Saturated fat0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	45 kcal
Total carbohydrates	11.25 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	10.63 g
— naturally occurring	9.63 g
— added	1 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
— saturated	0 g
— trans	0 g
Sodium	62.5 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Coconut Water (99%), Fructose (<1%), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C – INS 300)

Fructose

Added in a very small amount (<1%) here to round out sweetness alongside naturally occurring sugars. Fine in this quantity.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) (INS 300)

Vitamin C, used here as a natural antioxidant/preservative. No concern — it's a nutrient.

No. 018 · Drinks · Added 16 Aug 2026

Red Bull Sugar Free

Red Bull (manufactured by Rauch Fruchtsäfte GmbH & Co OG, Austria, for Red Bull Asia FZE; imported/distributed by Stassen Foods (Pvt) Ltd) · 250 ml (1 can)

104mg sodium/ serving → 5% of adult daily limit

6kcal/serving

Zero sugar, but the same adult-strength caffeine hit as the original — sweetened instead with two artificial sweeteners.

Contains caffeine (80 mg/can)Contains permitted sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame KPack states not recommended for children under 12, pregnant/breastfeeding women, or caffeine-sensitive individuals

Per serving vs. daily limit

Total sugar0g / serving

Adult0%

Child 9–130%

Child 4–80%

sodium104mg / serving

Adult5%

Child 9–137%

Child 4–89%

Nutrition

Per serving
Energy	6 kcal
Total carbohydrates	0 g
Dietary fibre	0 g
Total sugar	0 g
Protein	0 g
Total fat	0 g
Sodium	104 mg

Ingredients worth knowing

Carbonated Water, Citric Acid (INS 330), Taurine (0.4%), Natural and Artificial (Fruit Blend – Vanilla and Pineapple) Flavours, Sodium Bicarbonate (INS 500(ii)), Magnesium Carbonate (INS 504(ii)), Caramel Colour I (INS 150a), Caffeine (32 mg/100 ml), Sucralose (INS 955), Xanthan Gum (INS 415), Niacin, Acesulfame K (INS 950), Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B6, Riboflavin, Vitamin B12. Contains permitted sweeteners Sucralose and Acesulfame K.

Acesulfame K (INS 950)

Artificial sweetener, FDA/EFSA approved, often paired with sucralose. Some newer studies suggest possible metabolic/gut effects at high long-term intake — evidence still developing.

Xanthan Gum (INS 415)

Fermentation-derived thickener. Well-studied, low concern; mild laxative effect only at high doses.

Sucralose (INS 955)

Artificial sweetener, approved by FDA/EFSA as safe. Some newer studies suggest possible gut-microbiome effects at high intake — evidence still developing.

Caffeine

Stimulant. Guidance generally advises against regular caffeine intake for young children; this pack states "not recommended for children under 3."

Citric Acid (INS 330)

Naturally occurring fruit acid used as an acidulant. Well-studied, low concern; frequent intake from acidic drinks can contribute to dental erosion.

Taurine

Amino-sulfonic acid the body also produces naturally. Considered safe at typical energy-drink levels; long-term interaction with caffeine in adolescents is less studied.

Caramel Colour I (INS 150a)

"Plain" caramel colour made without ammonia or sulphites — the lowest-concern of the four caramel colour classes; no 4-MEI flag (unlike Class IV / INS 150d).