Monster

Monster Energy Ultra

Barcode 5060335635174

Scanned 40 times by Nomi users

Yes — Monster Energy Ultra is ultra-processed.

Contains multiple ultra-processed additives, including artificial sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame K), flavourings, preservatives (sorbic acid, benzoic acid), and other industrial ingredients. Also, per the important note, pre-identified UPF ingredients acid (citric acid) and flavourings require classifying this as UPF.

Ingredients

9 ultra-processed markers

OK

carbonated water

A basic beverage ingredient consisting of dissolved CO2 in water, providing fizz without flavor additives.
UPF

citric acid

A sour-tasting organic acid used as an acidulant and preservative in foods. Commonly added in small amounts to adjust acidity.
UPF

taurine

A sulfonic amino acid often used as an ingredient in energy drinks and supplements; commonly added for functional benefits.
UPF

sodium citrate

A basic acidity regulator used to adjust pH and act as an emulsifier or buffering agent in foods.
UPF

flavourings

Flavourings are additives that are used to enhance or impart flavor to food products. They are considered ultra-processed as they are synthetic or natural substances that are typically extracted, isolated, or synthesized for their flavor properties.
UPF

panax ginseng root extract

Herbal extract derived from Panax ginseng root, used for flavor or purported health benefits; performance in foods as an extract.
UPF

sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame k)

A blend of artificial sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium used to sweeten foods and beverages.
OK

caffeine (0.03%)

Natural stimulant used as a flavouring agent or functional ingredient in foods and beverages.
UPF

preservatives (sorbic acid, benzoic acid)

Food additives used to inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life.
UPF

l-carnitine l-tartrate

A salt formed from L-carnitine and tartrate used as a dietary supplement ingredient to support fat metabolism; typically added in small concentrations.
OK

vitamins b3, b5, b6 and b12 (niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, cobalamin)

A multi-nutrient B-complex vitamin blend providing niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), and cobalamin (B12) for nutritional support.
OK

sodium chloride

Common table salt; basic culinary ingredient and essential mineral used for flavor and preservation.
UPF

d-glucuronolactone, guarana seed extract 0.002%

A combination ingredient: D-glucuronolactone (a sugar alcohol derivative) and a trace guarana seed extract (caffeine-containing). Used in energy supplements; not a single pure food item. The specific formulation includes isolated/combined ingredients and a tiny percentage of guarana extract.
OK

inositol

A sugar alcohol (cyclohexane polyol) commonly used as a supplement and sometimes as a stabilizer in foods; naturally occurring in many foods. Generally considered a dietary supplement ingredient; inositol is a simple, single-ingredient substance.

Healthier alternatives

Reviewed by Nomi

Similar products that aren't ultra-processed — swap and keep the flavour.

Not Ultra-Processed

33Fuel Rocket Fuel Carb Drink Powder Mix

33Fuel

View product →

Swap it for something less processed

See all Drinks →

Other drinks Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.

Common questions about Monster Energy Ultra

Is Monster Energy Ultra ultra-processed?

Yes — Monster Energy Ultra by Monster is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). Contains multiple ultra-processed additives, including artificial sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame K), flavourings, preservatives (sorbic acid, benzoic acid), and other industrial ingredients. Also, per the important note, pre-identified UPF ingredients acid (citric acid) and flavourings require classifying this as UPF.

Which ingredients in Monster Energy Ultra are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 9 ingredients in Monster Energy Ultra as ultra-processed markers: citric acid, taurine, sodium citrate, flavourings, panax ginseng root extract, sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame k), preservatives (sorbic acid, benzoic acid), l-carnitine l-tartrate, d-glucuronolactone, guarana seed extract 0.002%. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What are healthier alternatives to Monster Energy Ultra?

Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including 33Fuel Rocket Fuel Carb Drink Powder Mix by 33Fuel. See the healthier alternatives above for details.

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.