As a nutritionist, I’m always curious about the ingredients and nutritional value of the products I consume. After putting ginger ales to the test, I realized that most popular ginger ales found in stores have very little ginger in them. In fact, Canada Dry ginger ale has been alleged to have as little as 2 parts per million of real ginger. This raised my curiosity, and I decided to take a closer look at the ginger content in various ginger ales and ginger beers.
Based on my firsthand experience, Reed’s Ginger Ale and Beer contain the most ginger among the reviewed brands. Ginger beer, in particular, has the highest ginger content. Vernor’s Ginger Ale likely contains a small amount of ginger extract hidden in the “natural ingredients” list but lacks significant ginger content. Schweppes ginger ale mentions real ginger on their website but likely uses ginger extract under the label of “natural flavors.” Seagram’s Ginger Ale includes ginger extract with other natural flavors but may not have a substantial amount of ginger.
When I trialed Buffalo Rock Ginger Ale, Blue Sky Ginger Ale, Polar Ginger Ale, and Fever-Tree Ginger Ale, I found that they may contain ginger extract but do not specify the ginger content. Brooklyn Crafted Classic Ginger Ale, on the other hand, stands out with real ginger listed as an ingredient, and their extra spicy option contains ginger extract in addition to ginger.
During my investigation, I discovered that Bruce Cost Ginger Ale uses real ginger in their drink and lists it in their ingredients. Cape Cod Ginger Ale also impressed me with real ginger as the second ingredient and likely contains more than 14 grams of ginger per bottle.
The Ginger Content of Popular Ginger Ales
Most popular ginger ales found in stores have very little ginger in them. For example, Canada Dry ginger ale has been alleged to have as little as 2 parts per million of real ginger. Some other notable brands and their ginger content are as follows:
- Vernor’s Ginger Ale: likely contains a small amount of ginger extract hidden in the “natural ingredients” list but lacks significant ginger content.
- Schweppes Ginger Ale: mentions real ginger on their website but likely uses ginger extract under the label of “natural flavors.”
- Seagram’s Ginger Ale: includes ginger extract with other natural flavors but may not have a substantial amount of ginger.
| Brand | Type | Real Ginger Content | Ginger Extract | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Dry | Ginger Ale | Minimal | No | 2 parts per million of real ginger |
| Reed’s | Ginger Ale | High | No | |
| Reed’s | Ginger Beer | Very High | No | |
| Vernor’s | Ginger Ale | Minimal | Yes | Hidden in “natural ingredients” |
| Schweppes | Ginger Ale | Minimal | Yes | Listed as “natural flavors” |
| Seagram’s | Ginger Ale | Minimal | Yes | |
| Buffalo Rock | Ginger Ale | Unknown | Possible | |
| Blue Sky | Ginger Ale | Unknown | Possible | |
| Polar | Ginger Ale | Unknown | Possible | |
| Fever-Tree | Ginger Ale | Unknown | Possible | |
| Brooklyn Crafted | Ginger Ale | Moderate | Yes (Extra Spicy) | Real ginger and ginger extract |
| Bruce Cost | Ginger Ale | Moderate | No | Real ginger listed in ingredients |
| Cape Cod | Ginger Ale | High | No | Over 14 grams of ginger per bottle |
Ginger Extract: A Common Ingredient
Buffalo Rock Ginger Ale, Blue Sky Ginger Ale, Polar Ginger Ale, and Fever-Tree Ginger Ale may contain ginger extract but do not specify the ginger content. Ginger extract can be a more concentrated form of ginger, but the lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine the true ginger content of these brands.
Standout Brands with Real Ginger
Some ginger ale brands stand out by listing real ginger as an ingredient:
- Brooklyn Crafted Classic Ginger Ale: real ginger listed as an ingredient, and their extra spicy option contains ginger extract in addition to ginger.
- Bruce Cost Ginger Ale: uses real ginger in their drink and lists it in their ingredients.
- Cape Cod Ginger Ale: has real ginger as the second ingredient and likely contains more than 14 grams of ginger per bottle.
Ginger Beers: A Spicier Alternative
Ginger beers generally have more ginger than ginger ales, with some brands having up to 19 times more ginger. Reed’s Ginger Ale and Beer, for instance, contain the most ginger among the reviewed brands, with ginger beer having the highest ginger content.
The Verdict on Ginger Content
Most ginger ales reviewed have a minimal amount of ginger, while Reed’s Ginger Beers and Cape Cod Ginger Ale are likely to have the most ginger. If you’re looking for a beverage with a higher ginger content, ginger beers or standout ginger ale brands like Brooklyn Crafted Classic Ginger Ale, Bruce Cost Ginger Ale, and Cape Cod Ginger Ale may be your best bet.
FAQ Section
What is the difference between ginger ale and ginger beer?
Ginger ale is a carbonated soft drink flavored with ginger, while ginger beer is a fermented beverage that also contains ginger. Ginger beer is typically spicier and has a more robust ginger flavor compared to ginger ale.
Are ginger ale and ginger beer good for you?
Ginger has many health benefits, such as aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and soothing nausea. However, the health benefits of ginger ale and ginger beer depend on the ginger content and other ingredients, such as sugar content. Brands with higher ginger content and lower sugar content are generally healthier choices.
What brands of ginger ale have the most ginger content?
Based on our research, Reed’s Ginger Ale, Cape Cod Ginger Ale, Brooklyn Crafted Classic Ginger Ale, and Bruce Cost Ginger Ale are among the brands with the highest ginger content.
Can I make my own ginger ale or ginger beer at home?
Yes, making ginger ale or ginger beer at home is a great way to ensure a higher ginger content and control the ingredients used. Homemade ginger ale can be made by combining ginger syrup, carbonated water, and optional sweeteners or flavorings. Homemade ginger beer requires fermentation using ginger, sugar, water, and a starter culture (such as ginger bug or yeast).
How can I identify if a ginger ale or ginger beer has a high ginger content?
Check the ingredients list on the product label. Brands with real ginger listed as an ingredient or those that explicitly mention the ginger content are more likely to have a higher ginger content. Additionally, ginger beers generally have more ginger than ginger ales.
Are there any health risks associated with consuming too much ginger?
While ginger is generally considered safe and has many health benefits, consuming excessive amounts can cause side effects such as heartburn, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. It’s essential to consume ginger in moderation and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or pre-existing health conditions.
Conclusion
When choosing a ginger ale or ginger beer, it’s essential to know the true ginger content of the beverage. By being aware of the ingredients and selecting brands with higher ginger content, you can enjoy a more authentic and potentially healthful ginger experience.