Analyzing the rising craze for beverages fortified with vitamins
In the realm of beverages, Vitamin Water has made a name for itself as a healthier alternative to soft drinks, boasting fortified vitamins and minerals. However, is this claim truly justified? Let's delve into the facts.
Vitamin Water, composed of mineral water, vitamins from groups B and C, minerals, flavorings, and sometimes additional ingredients like collagen, provides amounts of vitamins high enough to be labeled as a source of those vitamins. With between 10% and 20% of the Reference Values of Nutrients (RVNs) for vitamins C, Niacin (B3), Pyridoxine (B6), Biotin, and Cyanocobalamin (B12), it seems like a promising choice.
But, consuming half a liter of these beverages can provide the total of the reference values of these vitamins. This might lead to the overconsumption risk, especially for the fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which can accumulate in the body and cause toxicity if consumed excessively.
One orange, on the other hand, covers 100% of the daily vitamin C needs and costs 0.50 euros. A sardine provides 8.5 μg of vitamin B12 (340% VNR) and 0.96 μg of vitamin B6 (70% VNR) and costs less than a liter of "vitamin water."
Upon examination, the ingredient list may reveal the presence of additives, some of which may have different health valuations. For instance, E952 (cyclamates), E954 (saccharin), E955 (sucralose), E202 (potassium sorbate), E211 (sodium benzoate) are not recommended for consumption. On the other hand, E410 (carob gum) is rated as tolerable.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not authorized the claim that collagen intake favors the maintenance of skin and hair. Moreover, none of the 18 authorized health claims by the EFSA for zinc refers to the reduction of inflammation.
The only advantage of these drinks is their convenience, but it's better to invest that same money in fresh foods and thus broaden the range of nutrients necessary for our health. Natural foods like water, oranges, and sardines cover the needs of vitamins whose intake is more deficient (vitamin C, B6, and B12) without losing sight of all the "extras" they provide.
In Germany, Vitamin Water is manufactured by companies like Hohes C, which produces Vitamin Water products that are natural, without added sugar, colors, or preservatives, and The Coca-Cola Company. Despite the addition of vitamins and minerals, the nutritional composition of these beverages remains zero-calorie.
In conclusion, while Vitamin Water may seem like a healthier choice, it's essential to remember that it's always better to prioritise fresh, whole foods for a balanced and nutritious diet. The cost comparison also favours fresh foods, with the average price of a liter of "vitamin water" being 1.71 euros, while the average cost of a liter of mineral water is 0.67 euros, a 61% reduction.
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