Soda has long been a guilty pleasure for millions of people. But in recent years, there’s been a shift. Health-conscious consumers are looking for alternatives to sugary drinks. Enter Clear American Sparkling Water—a Walmart-exclusive beverage that has become one of the most popular flavored sparkling waters in the U.S.
What makes it so appealing? Simple:
- Zero sugar
- Zero calories
- Zero carbs
- Gluten-free
- Available in dozens of flavors
It’s marketed as a guilt-free soda replacement. But many people still ask: “Is Clear American Sparkling Water good for you?”
This article will explore the ingredients, nutrition facts, flavors, potential health risks, and benefits. We’ll also look at how it compares with other sparkling water brands and answer the most frequently asked questions.
What Exactly Is Clear American Sparkling Water?
Clear American is Walmart’s private-label sparkling water brand. It’s available nationwide in bottles and cans and has built a cult following for its affordability and flavor variety.
Unlike many sparkling waters that taste slightly bitter, Clear American uses a unique carbonation process and artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame potassium to make the taste more soda-like. That’s why many consumers say it tastes closer to soft drinks than to LaCroix or Bubly.
Clear American Sparkling Water Ingredients
Here are the standard ingredients in most Clear American varieties:
- Carbonated Water – The base of the drink.
- Natural Flavor – Adds fruit taste (though the term is broad).
- Potassium Benzoate – A Preservative that prevents spoilage.
- Citric Acid – Enhances tartness.
- Potassium Citrate – Balances acidity.
- Aspartame – artificial sweetener.
- Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K) – A zero-calorie sweetener often paired with aspartame.
Nutrition Facts of Clear American Sparkling Water
For a serving size of 8 fl oz, here’s what you’ll get:
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0 | 0% |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Sodium | 0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbs | 0g | 0% |
| Sugars | 0g | 0% |
| Protein | 0g | 0% |
It’s marketed as 0 calories, 0 carbs, 0 fat, and 0 sugar.
Is Clear American Sparkling Water Healthy?
This is the most debated question.
✅ The Pros:
- No sugar or calories → Safe for weight management.
- No caffeine → Can be consumed anytime.
- Hydrating → Just like plain water.
- Soda replacement → Great alternative to sugary sodas.
- Variety of flavors → Makes hydration more enjoyable.
⚠️ The Cons:
- Aspartame & Acesulfame K → Controversial artificial sweeteners. Some people avoid them due to potential long-term risks.
- Potassium Benzoate → A preservative that, in rare cases, may cause skin reactions or form benzene under heat/light exposure.
- Acidity → Like all carbonated drinks, it may contribute to enamel erosion over time.
- Not 100% natural → Unlike LaCroix or Spindrift, it’s not marketed as “clean label.”
Bottom Line:
Clear American Sparkling Water is much healthier than soda, but it’s not perfect. If consumed in moderation, it’s generally safe for most people.
Clear American Sparkling Water Flavors
This is where the brand shines. Unlike most sparkling water brands that stick to 5–10 flavors, Clear American offers dozens. Some fan favorites include:
- Fuji Apple
- Orange & Cream
- Peach
- Mandarin Orange
- Ice Black Raspberry
- Pineapple Coconut
- Cherry Limeade
- White Grape
- Strawberry
- Watermelon
Because of the sweetener blend, many people say these flavors taste like diet sodas without the calories.
Clear American Pineapple Coconut Nutrition Facts
One of the best-selling flavors is Pineapple Coconut. Here’s the breakdown for 12 fl oz (355ml):
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0 | 0% |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Sodium | 5mg | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbs | 0g | 0% |
| Sugars | 0g | 0% |
| Protein | 0g | 0% |
| Potassium | 170mg | 4% |
This makes it a refreshing, tropical soda alternative.
Clear American vs. Other Sparkling Waters
| Brand | Calories | Sweetener | Flavor Profile | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clear American | 0 | Aspartame, Ace-K | Sweet, soda-like | Budget-friendly (Walmart) |
| LaCroix | 0 | None | Subtle, natural | Mid-range |
| Bubly | 0 | None | Bold, fruity | Mid-range |
| Spindrift | 5–15 | None (uses real fruit juice) | Fresh, authentic | Premium |
Clear American is the sweetest-tasting option due to its use of artificial sweeteners.
Who Sells Clear American Sparkling Water?
- Walmart – Primary retailer (in-store & online).
- Amazon – Limited selection, usually in multipacks.
- Sam’s Club – Occasionally in bulk packs.
Although it’s not as widely distributed as LaCroix or Bubly, Walmart ensures nationwide access.
Health Concerns & Safety of Clear American
Some people worry about long-term consumption. Let’s look at the science:
- Aspartame: Approved by the FDA, but sensitive individuals (especially with PKU) should avoid it.
- Acesulfame Potassium: Considered safe by EFSA and FDA, though some animal studies suggest further research is needed.
- Potassium Benzoate: Safe in small amounts but may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Dental Health: Like other carbonated beverages, acidity may weaken enamel if consumed excessively.
👉 Best practice: Enjoy Clear American in moderation, and balance with plain water.
Benefits of Choosing Clear American Over Soda
- Weight Management – Zero calories means no guilt.
- Diabetes-Friendly – No sugar spikes like regular soda.
- Hydration – Still counts toward daily fluid intake.
- Affordable – One of the cheapest sparkling waters on the market.
- Variety – Keeps you from getting bored with plain water.
Real Consumer Experiences
Many loyal fans praise Clear American because it curbs soda cravings. One customer review said:
“I’ve been drinking Clear American for three years, and I’ve completely stopped buying soda. My weight went down, and I don’t miss Coke anymore.”
Others note slight aftertastes from artificial sweeteners but say the flavors are worth it.
Clear American Sparkling Water Review – Walmart’s Zero-Calorie Drink
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It contains carbonated water, natural flavors, potassium benzoate, aspartame, acesulfame potassium, citric acid, and potassium citrate.
No, it’s non-alcoholic.
Yes. It has no sugar or carbs, making it better than soda. However, diabetics sensitive to artificial sweeteners should consult their doctor.
Zero. All flavors are calorie-free.
No. Sparkling water itself has no calories. Weight gain only occurs if paired with high-calorie diets.
Like other carbonated drinks, its acidity can weaken enamel if consumed excessively. Drink in moderation.
Absolutely. It’s calorie-free, sugar-free, and much healthier than soft drinks.
Yes, but in moderation due to artificial sweeteners.
Fan favorites include Fuji Apple, Ice Black Raspberry, and Orange & Cream.
It’s Walmart’s private-label product, distributed across U.S. stores.
Conclusion: Should You Drink Clear American Sparkling Water?
Clear American Sparkling Water is an excellent soda alternative—zero calories, zero sugar, and packed with refreshing flavors. While not as natural as LaCroix or Spindrift, it’s budget-friendly and satisfies cravings for fizzy, sweet drinks without the health risks of soda.
As with any beverage containing artificial sweeteners, the key is moderation. If you balance it with plain water and a healthy diet, Clear American can absolutely be part of a smart lifestyle.
Refrences:
- FDA on Artificial Sweeteners
- Healthline on Sparkling Water Benefits & Risks
- Walmart – Clear American Sparkling Water
