Soft drinks: La Croix Sparkling Water vs. Mountain Dew
Quick Verdict
La Croix is a healthier choice for those avoiding sugar and artificial ingredients, while Mountain Dew is a sugary, caffeinated beverage for those seeking an energy boost.
- La Croix is a healthier, zero-calorie, zero-sugar option with natural flavors.
- Mountain Dew provides an energy boost from caffeine but contains high sugar and artificial ingredients.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | La Croix Sparkling Water | Mountain Dew |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Variety | Wide array of flavors, including fruit and fruit blends. At least 26 flavors available. | Wide range, including Diet Mountain Dew, Baja Blast, Code Red, LiveWire, Voltage, Major Melon, and Spark. |
| Sweetness Level | 0% sweeteners | High sugar content. |
| Caffeine Content | 0 mg of caffeine | 54-55 mg per 12-oz can. Mountain Dew Energy has around 180 mg per 16 fl oz can. |
| Calorie Count | 0 calories | Approximately 170 calories per 12-oz can. |
| Sugar Content | 0g of sugar | About 46 grams per 12-oz can. |
| Artificial Sweeteners | Does not contain artificial sweeteners | Diet and Zero Sugar versions use aspartame, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), and sucralose. |
| Ingredients Quality | Carbonated water and natural flavors. 100% natural and 'innocent,' free of sugars, calories, sodium, and artificial ingredients. Non-GMO. | Contains high fructose corn syrup, concentrated orange juice, citric acid, and artificial colors. Some sources suggest it's not the healthiest choice. |
Overall Comparison
Calories: La Croix wins; Sugar: La Croix wins; Caffeine: Mountain Dew wins; Ingredients: La Croix wins
Pros and Cons
La Croix Sparkling Water
Pros:
- Wide variety of flavors
- Zero calories
- Zero sugar
- No artificial sweeteners
- Gluten-free
- Vegan
- Kosher
- Whole30 approved
- Refreshing
- Healthy alternative to sugary drinks
- Portable and easy to store
Cons:
- Some reviewers find it to be a bit pricey
Mountain Dew
Pros:
- Wide variety of flavors
- Contains caffeine for an energy boost
- Portable and easy to store packaging (cans and bottles)
- Strong brand reputation
Cons:
- High sugar content
- Contains artificial sweeteners (in Diet and Zero Sugar versions)
- Contains artificial colors
- May have an artificial aftertaste (particularly in diet versions)
- High sugar content can lead to a sugar rush and subsequent crash
- Not suitable for people with low-sugar diets (regular version)
User Experiences and Feedback
La Croix Sparkling Water
What Users Love
- Great alternative to sugary sodas
- Light and not overpowering taste
- Refreshing
- Non-boring sparkling water
- Light aroma and taste
- Perfect fizz
- Bubbly yet smooth and easy to drink
- Suitable for people with dietary restrictions
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- Perfect fizz
- Cult following among young consumers
- Innocent
Mountain Dew
What Users Love
- Enjoyable citrus flavor
- Provides an energy boost due to caffeine
Common Complaints
- High sugar content
- Artificial aftertaste (in diet versions)
- May lead to a sugar rush and crash
Value Perception
- Price justified based on taste and brand (subjective)
User Recommendations
- Original Mountain Dew flavor is often compared to lemon-lime sodas like Sprite or 7Up, but it's considered bolder with a more pronounced lime taste.
- Some reviewers note an artificial aftertaste, particularly in the diet and zero-sugar versions, which use artificial sweeteners.
- The original Mountain Dew is typically described as a citrus-flavored soda with a strong lime taste and a high level of sweetness.