Horchata is one of the most consumed drinks in Valencia and the Balearic Islands. Luckily for many, its commercialization in supermarkets means that it can be taken throughout the year, and not only in summer. Will the Mercadona horchata be of good quality?
At a price of €1 per liter of brick, the horchata It has become a drink suitable for snacks or treats. We analyze if it really is a healthy drink that we can drink regularly.
Ingredients and nutritional value
Mercadona's horchata is made up of: «water, tiger nuts (10%), sugar, emulsifier, stabilizers and aromas«. Some brands use rice to infuse this drink, but in this case only water and tiger nuts are used. It is the recipe that is most faithful to the original and avoids an increase in calories without the rice drink. Plus, it's still vegan, lactose-free, and gluten-free.
In addition, for every 100 ml of product we find the following nutrients:
- Energy: 84 calories
- Fats: 2 grams
- of which saturated: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 14 grams
- of which sugars: 12 grams
- Food fiber: 0 grams
- Proteins: 0 grams
- Salt: 0 gram
Other versions of horchata
There is not only the one liter brick version. Mercadona also sells fresh horchata in a bottle and glass, granita, ice cream and a tiger nut drink. They all differ slightly in nutritional content, so we must choose appropriately.
La fresh horchata It is a great option, although we have to consume it within 24 hours after opening it. The ingredients and nutrients are very similar to that of brick, but in this version it tastes sweeter thanks to the cinnamon. Its price is €2 and its content is 750 ml. It is also available in a 250 ml glass to drink individually and without the risk of going bad before its time.
La tiger nut drink It is practically the same as Mercadona's horchata in bricks, only in this case it contains sweeteners. This significantly reduces the presence of calories and added sugars. The ingredients are the same, so we'll still have that delicious tiger nut flavor in each glass. It is also presented in a one liter brick, at a price of €1.
Finally, both the granita and the horchata ice cream are rich in added sugars. They will possibly be delicious in taste, but the nutritional values are not worth it. Occasionally it could be consumed as a treat, but it should not be confused with drinking good quality horchata.