Dr Pepper is a wildly popular soft drink with a flavor unlike any other soda on the market. You can find it pretty much anywhere.
But what’s in it? This article provides a detailed overview of the nutrition facts of Dr Pepper, so you can make informed choices about what you’re drinking.
Keep in mind that things like serving size can change the nutritional content. We’ll break down the nutrition information for a standard serving size to help give you the best picture.
What’s in a Dr Pepper?
Here’s a look at the nutrition facts for a standard can (12 fl oz) of Dr Pepper.
Calories
One 12-ounce can of Dr Pepper has 150 calories. By comparison, a 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola has 140 calories, and a similar serving of Mountain Dew clocks in at 170 calories. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the serving size, and whether it’s a “classic” or diet version of the soda.
Macronutrients
Dr Pepper is almost all carbohydrates, in the form of sugar. A 12-ounce can has 40 grams of carbs, all of which comes from added sugar. There’s no fat or protein in Dr Pepper.
Micronutrients
Dr Pepper isn’t a good source of vitamins or minerals. In fact, it doesn’t contain any significant amount of micronutrients.
Sugar content and health implications
Like most non-diet sodas, Dr Pepper gets a good portion of its calories from added sugar. A 12-ounce can contains about 40 grams of added sugars, which is more than the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit of 36 grams for men and 25 grams for women.
Regularly consuming too much added sugar has been linked to health problems like weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Studies have also shown associations between sugary drinks and increased risks of certain cancers.
If you’re watching your sugar intake, you might want to consider one of Dr Pepper’s diet versions, which use artificial sweeteners to reduce the sugar content. However, some studies suggest that regular consumption of artificial sweeteners may have its own set of potential effects, which scientists are still working to understand fully.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting added sugar intake to less than 10% of your daily calories. Enjoying Dr Pepper in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet is key to maintaining good health.
Ingredients and Additives
Like most sodas, Dr Pepper has a relatively simple ingredient list. Here’s what’s in it:
- Carbonated water
- High fructose corn syrup
- Caramel color
- Phosphoric acid
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Sodium benzoate (a preservative)
- Caffeine
The “natural and artificial flavors” are a closely guarded secret, but it’s these flavors that give Dr Pepper its distinctive taste. Some people have concerns about artificial flavors and colors in processed foods. While regulatory agencies like the FDA deem these additives safe for consumption, some individuals may be sensitive to them.
Dr Pepper doesn’t contain any of the top nine allergens: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. However, it’s worth noting that cross-contamination is always a possibility when foods are manufactured in facilities that also process allergens.
Closing Thoughts
So, what are the key nutritional facts about Dr Pepper? It’s primarily water, sugar, and artificial flavors. While it can provide a quick burst of energy, it’s important to remember that moderation is key.
Making informed choices about what you eat and drink is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Always consult dietary guidelines and talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.