This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Calorie-conscious fans of Apple Beer — a popular nonalcoholic gourmet soda made in Utah — have a new reason to raise their glasses.
The company recently introduced Apple Beer 5, which has just 5 calories in a 12-ounce bottle. The original Apple Beer contains 160 calories.
The crisp-tasting Apple Beer 5 is made with sucralose (Splenda) instead of sugar and is almost void of carbohydrates, with just 1 gram in a bottle, said Sarah Brusik, the company promotions director. The low-calorie beverage has a bit of ginseng and açai extracts, but despite the name, it contains no apple juice. Its ciderlike flavor comes from carbonated water and citric acid.
Apple Beer has been a longtime favorite in Utah, especially among Mormons who abstain from alcohol and caffeine. Brusik said for many years, Utah customers — many with diabetes or weight issues— have requested a low-sugar alternative to the effervescent beverage.
The company has been a one-product operation until now, said Brusik, noting that Apple Beer 5 is the first product the Utah company has introduced in more than 40 years.
A four-pack of Apple Beer 5 costs around $4.75 and is available at Associated Food Stores and specialty shops.
Kathy Stephenson