Non-alcoholic Drinks

How to choose a non-alcoholic drink

This category includes fermented and tea drinks, including sparkling options, as well as fruit juices. For some products, we state the proportion of ingredients from organic farming; we only use the “organic” label when this origin is verified. If you’re looking for fermented drinks, water kefir or cold-infused iced tea, you can quickly get a clear view of the main types of alcohol-free drinks.

You’ll also find related products in the Dried and instant drinks category.

What you’ll find in this category

This includes water kefirs (fermented, often lightly sparkling), iced teas, sparkling tea drinks, fruit juices and electrolyte mixes for water. Each item includes ingredients and any available nutrition information; we list caffeine on the product page where available.

Fermentation and water kefir

Water kefir is made through fermentation and tends to have a lightly tangy flavour with gentle fizz. Different options vary by the fruit and herbs used and the level of sweetness, so it’s worth comparing the ingredients and the nutrition table for the specific product.

Iced teas and cold infusion

Some tea drinks use cold infusion – this means leaving the tea in water for longer without heating. The result is a gentler flavour and lower bitterness; the range includes different types of tea and fruit combinations.

Electrolyte mixes for water

Electrolyte mixes are for mixing into water. They vary by flavour, serving size and any caffeine content – you’ll find these details on the product page.

How to narrow it down quickly

When choosing, check the ingredients, sugar and sweetener content, level of fizz, any caffeine, origin, and whether the product is organic. If you’re sensitive to certain ingredients or have specific preferences, review the ingredients list for each item.

How we choose products

We look for a complete ingredients list, clear nutrition information, and a straightforward origin for the ingredients. For organic items, we check documented origin from organic farming, as well as any information on the share of organic ingredients where the manufacturer provides it.

FAQ

What is water kefir and why is it classed as a fermented non-alcoholic drink?

Water kefir is a fermented drink made through fermentation of a sweet base (often with fruit or herbs). The result is usually a lightly tangy taste with gentle fizz. Options vary by ingredients, level of sweetness and chosen flavours.

Is there residual alcohol in fermented drinks (water kefir)?

During fermentation, a small amount of alcohol can be produced. The amount varies by recipe and batch; follow the information on the specific product. If you want to avoid alcohol, choose non-fermented drinks (for example iced teas or fruit juices).

Why are some kefir and fermented drinks naturally sparkling?

The gentle fizz in fermented drinks is often linked to fermentation, which produces carbon dioxide. The level of carbonation varies by product and can range from a light sparkle to a more noticeable fizz.

What is cold infusion and how does it differ from regular iced tea?

Cold infusion is a preparation method where tea is infused in water for longer without heating. The resulting iced tea tends to be gentler and usually less bitter than tea made with hot water. The category includes different types of tea and fruit combinations.

How can I tell whether a drink is sweetened with sugar, fruit or sweeteners?

Check the ingredient names and the nutrition table. The ingredients list shows added sugar (e.g. cane sugar), fruit ingredients (juice, concentrate) and any sweeteners. In the table, look in particular at “sugars” per 100 ml.

Do non-alcoholic drinks contain caffeine? Where is it most common?

Caffeine can appear in some tea drinks (depending on the type of tea used) and in some mixes for water. It isn’t in every product; if caffeine information is available, we list it on the product page.

What does “organic” mean for non-alcoholic drinks and how can I check it?

We use “organic” for drinks where the ingredients’ origin from organic farming is documented. Some products also state the share of organic ingredients, where available. Always follow the label and the information shown on the product page.

What are electrolyte mixes for water and how are they prepared?

Electrolyte mixes are powdered blends for mixing into water. Products vary by serving size, flavour and any caffeine content; you’ll always find the recommended preparation on the product page.