Lemonade

Barcode 041461880008

Yes — Lemonade is ultra-processed.

A refreshing drink, but not ideal for everyday use.

This is a lemon-flavored beverage made with water, sugar, and concentrated lemon juice. It is classified as ultra-processed because it contains natural aroma, an industrial flavoring additive, and potassium sorbate, a preservative used to extend shelf life. Citric acid and beta-carotene are basic acidifying and coloring ingredients and would not independently make it ultra-processed.

Ingredients

3 ultra-processed markers

OK

water

Essential base ingredient for countless foods and beverages; serves as solvent and texture modifier.
OK

sugar

Granulated sugar derived from sugarcane or sugar beets; a basic, single-ingredient sweetener.
OK

lemon juice from concentrate

A liquid obtained by concentrating lemon juice, typically used as a souring agent or base for beverages and recipes.
UPF

citric acid (acidulant)

A food-grade acidulant used to adjust acidity and sharpen flavors; a simple organic acid often found as a crystalline powder.
OK

potassium sorbate

A preservative used to inhibit mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods and drinks, typically added in small amounts.
UPF

natural aroma

A flavoring derived from natural sources used to impart aroma and taste to foods; considered a flavoring agent.
UPF

beta-carotene coloring

A pigment used as a food coloring; beta-carotene is a natural carotenoid pigment that imparts orange-yellow color and can function as a vitamin A precursor.

Common questions about Lemonade

Is Lemonade ultra-processed?

Yes — Lemonade is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). This is a lemon-flavored beverage made with water, sugar, and concentrated lemon juice. It is classified as ultra-processed because it contains natural aroma, an industrial flavoring additive, and potassium sorbate, a preservative used to extend shelf life. Citric acid and beta-carotene are basic acidifying and coloring ingredients and would not independently make it ultra-processed.

Which ingredients in Lemonade are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 3 ingredients in Lemonade as ultra-processed markers: citric acid (acidulant), natural aroma, beta-carotene coloring. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.