A new study has found levels of vitamin C in many fruit juices and soft drinks are far higher than those indicated on their labels by the manufacturers.
Researchers from the University of Santiago de Compostela developed a new technique that separates and identifies chemical elements to accurately measure the amounts of the vitamin in beverages.
They say by applying this method, they have found that the amounts of vitamin C stipulated on the labels of many drinks are not real. In a sample of 17 fruit juices, soft drinks and isotonic drinks, only two correspond to what is indicated on the bottle.
“The drinks contain much higher levels than those specified by the manufacturer because, as has already been indicated in a previous study, the label probably only shows the amount of added ascorbic acid, without taking into account the fruits natural vitamin C content,” said researcher Ana Rodriguez Bernaldo de Quiros.
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is an antioxidant necessary for normal growth and development. According to MedlinePlus, it is required for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the human body.
It is available as a nutritional supplement, but dietary sources include green peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries and tomatoes.