Everyone goes crazy for the new pumpkin spice latte! Especially because now it actually contains pumpkin. (I find this a bit concerning.) If we were going to name it, it probably should have been called a chemical spice latte. So, what actually is in this drink that you consume so often?
This is a quick look at what the old PSL looked like.
The news of this Starbucks' ingredient change went viral this year. Here's what's in it.
Espresso and milk.
Pumpkin spice flavored sauce.
Sugar, condensed skim milk, pumpkin puree, contains 2% or less of fruit and vegetable juice for color, natural flavors, annatto for color, potassium sorbate as a preservative, salt.
Whipped cream.
Light whipping cream (cream, mono and diglycerides, carrageenan).
Starbucks vanilla syrup.
Sugar, water, natural flavors, potassium sorbate as preservative, citric acid.
Pumpkin spice topping.
Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove.
So, let's take an abbreviated look on just a few additives in your favorite fall refreshment.
"Natural" flavors: It sounds so innocent. Please, don't you dare be fooled! The FDA defines natural flavoring in simplest forms as any substance directly from a plant or animal, or from roasting, heating or fermentation of the plant or animal. When you quickly breeze through this definition it seems harmless, but this definition basically says the feces of an animal is said to be natural.
Potassium sorbate is a chemically used in food to help keep off mold and fungus that would otherwise make food spoil or cause illness. It is also commonly in shampoos and industrial coatings to help a seal from breaking down from mold or fungus. Potassium sorbate is said to be non-toxic but has been seen to have long term effects if consumed too often. Sometimes it can cause nausea or diarrhea. If consumed too much, potassium sorbate can cause nutrition deficiencies due to impaired nutrient absorption. Some side effects also may include headaches or migraines and hypersensitivity.
Citric acid is organically found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and limes just to name a few. Yet, it is chemically made to add to foods and beverages to increase shelf life. It is also said that too much citric acid can lead to the decay of tooth enamel in children and teens.
At least when all you BWG's (basic white girls) throw on your yoga pants, Uggs, and accessorize with a PSL in your hand, it will contain two percent or less pumpkin. (This is more than you could have said last year)!
So, that's what's up inside your PSL cup!
