Smoothies

Extremely popular, smoothies are marketed as an easier way to consume your 5-A-Day. If you're finding it difficult reaching the recommended quota of fruit and vegetables - smoothies seem the perfect answer. Our panel put 6 of the popular brands to the taste test... see how they compare. 

Mango & Passion Fruit, Pure Fruit Smoothie, Innocent* A pleasant aroma, a thick texture, and a very fruity taste. One of the better smoothies sampled. Give it a try!  Per Bottle (250ml)† Per 100ml CALORIES 138kcal 55kcal FAT 0.5g 0.2g

Orange, Mango & Apricot Smoothie, COU, M&S* A tangy drink, which some of the panel found a little tart. Rather like a freshly squeezed orange - overall, a pleasant, refreshing drink.   Per Bottle (250ml)† Per 100ml CALORIES 130kcal 52kcal FAT 1.5g 0.6g

Orange & Banana, Low Fat, Bio Yoghurt Smoothie, Shape* Creamy and smooth, like yogurt. Higher in calories than COU and Innocent, and is the least fruity. Nevertheless a satisfying drink. Give it a go.  Per Bottle (250ml)† Per 100ml CALORIES 184kcal 74kcal FAT 1.8g 0.7g

Mild & Fruity, Peach Dairy Drink, Campina* A runny, yoghurt drink. Watery and lacking flavour. Disliked by the panel.   Per Bottle (330ml)† Per 100ml CALORIES 211kcal 64kcal FAT 0.0g 0.0g

†Retailer's Recommended Portion Size

Conclusion

Overall, the panel were disappointed by the standard of smoothies tasted. With up to 200kcals per bottle, a smoothie should be considered a treat - these ones were not! Most were either watery or lacking taste (surprising for drinks renowned for their fruit content!) - and the panelists believed a glass of freshly squeezed fruit juice would be tastier and more refreshing... (not to mention cheaper!)  

Calories in Drinks

The Weight Loss Resources' UK food database lists the calories in over 20,000 basic and branded foods and drinks. 

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