A LOOK AT V8 SPLASH FRUIT JUICE and MEMBER’S MARK SPARKLING WATER

Because we knew people who had tried these products, we were able to study the ingredients. Most people have tried the original V8 at some time or another with breakfast, lunch, or as a snack. It’s tasty and has vitamins and minerals. We’ve come to trust it since The Campbell Co. acquired it in 1948.

Then V8 Splash flavored fruit drinks were introduced in 2005. Are they as trustworthy as the original V8?

The Berry Blend boasts “at least 25% less sugar,” than other leading brands. The second highest ingredient is high fructose corn syrup with a note further down that the corn is bioengineered, “genetically modified.”

Next is V8 Splash Tropical Blend with 25% less sugar flagged on the front. High fructose corn syrup is the third highest ingredient. The jury is still out as to whether high fructose corn syrup is as bad as regular sugar. What is questionable is the GMO factor.

The V8 Splash Strawberry Kiwi has high fructose corn syrup as the second highest ingredient, also made with genetically modified corn. Now, if GMOs don’t bother you, at least V8 Splash is gluten-free.

Member’s Mark, a Sam’s Club brand, offers a variety of sparkling water. Strawberry Lemonade has zero calories and lists vitamins and minerals. It contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener. Although sucralose is widely used and approved by the FDA, it’s created by modifying sugar with chlorine, the ingredient found in bleach, causing some health concerns. It also contains sodium benzoate which is derived from the chemical benzene.

The Black Raspberry uses sucralose and potassium benzoate and so does the Peach Mango. Due to the chemical compounds in the Member’s Mark products, the V8 splash seems like a safer choice, although some people are concerned regarding the gene modification of corn syrup in the V8 Splash.

Remember to read the labels on the back, not just the front. There are optional products too including H2Oh!, Bubly, and Good & Gather sparkling water and other fruit juices if you prefer.

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