Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries And Cream

Discovering the Perfect Balance of Bubbles, Berries, and Creamy Indulgence

I still remember the first time I stumbled upon Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream. It was one of those sweltering summer afternoons when the thought of another plain water bottle made me sigh. Standing in the beverage aisle at Walmart, surrounded by the usual suspects, my eyes caught a glimpse of something different – that distinct pink label promising the nostalgic flavor of strawberries and cream, but in sparkling water form. Intrigued and desperate for something refreshing yet exciting, I tossed it in my cart, not knowing it would spark a full-blown obsession.

Fast forward two years, and my refrigerator is never without a stock of Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream. It’s become my daily companion, my guilty pleasure that isn’t actually guilty at all, and the conversation starter at every gathering I host. Through countless cans, bottles, and even a few creative cocktail experiments, I’ve developed what my friends jokingly call an “unhealthy relationship with healthy water.”

But here’s the thing – finding a delicious, zero-calorie beverage that satisfies sweet cravings without derailing health goals is nothing short of life-changing. And that’s exactly what Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream has been for me.

So whether you’re a curious first-timer or a fellow enthusiast looking to deepen your appreciation, I’ve created this comprehensive guide to share everything I’ve learned about this magnificent bubbly concoction. From ingredients and nutritional information to where to find it and creative ways to enjoy it, consider this your ultimate resource for all things Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream.

What Exactly Is Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify what this beverage actually is. Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream is a flavored sparkling water produced exclusively for Walmart. It belongs to the broader Clear American line, which offers a vast array of flavored sparkling waters designed to provide a more exciting alternative to plain water without the caloric content of sodas or juices.

What sets the Strawberries and Cream variant apart from other flavored sparkling waters is its unique dual-flavor profile. While most sparkling waters stick to single fruit flavors or simple combinations, this one ambitiously attempts to recreate the classic dessert pairing of sweet strawberries and smooth cream – all within a zero-calorie, zero-sugar sparkling water format.

The product comes in 12-ounce cans (usually in packs of 12) and 1-liter bottles, making it versatile for different consumption needs. The packaging is instantly recognizable with its pink label featuring illustrations of strawberries and a creamy swirl, standing out among the sea of citrus-dominated competitors.

The Taste Experience: Strawberries and Cream in Liquid Form?

Let’s address the elephant in the room – can a zero-calorie sparkling water truly capture the essence of strawberries and cream? Having consumed an embarrassing amount of this beverage, I can offer my honest assessment.

The first thing that hits you is the aroma – pleasantly sweet and distinctly strawberry-forward. It genuinely smells like strawberry candy or strawberry ice cream, setting expectations high before you take your first sip. The carbonation level is moderate – more robust than a gently sparkling mineral water but less aggressive than most commercial sodas.

Upon tasting, the strawberry flavor comes through immediately. It’s more reminiscent of strawberry candy than fresh strawberries – think strawberry Starburst or strawberry hard candies. There’s a definite sweetness, despite containing no sugar, that satisfies the craving for something sweet without being cloying.

The “cream” element is more subtle but definitely present. It manifests as a smooth, vanilla-like undertone that rounds out the fruity sharpness of the strawberry flavor. The creamy note is most noticeable at the finish, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that prevents the artificial sweetener from dominating the experience.

Is it exactly like dipping fresh strawberries in cream? No. But it’s a remarkably convincing approximation given the zero-calorie, zero-sugar constraints. The flavor is nostalgic, reminiscent of strawberry milk or strawberry ice cream, but in a much lighter, refreshing format.

The best way I can describe it is if strawberry shortcake were transformed into a sparkling beverage – it captures the essence of the dessert while remaining unmistakably a sparkling water. It’s sweet enough to satisfy a dessert craving but light enough to enjoy all day long.

Nutritional Breakdown: What’s Really in the Bottle?

For those of us who scrutinize nutrition labels (and I count myself among those ranks), here’s the detailed breakdown of what you’re actually consuming when you crack open a Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream:

Calories and Macronutrients

• Calories: 0
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 0g

This zero across the board profile makes it an appealing option for virtually any dietary approach, from calorie counting to carb restriction. But the real question for many health-conscious consumers isn’t just what’s not in it, but what is.

Ingredients List

The main ingredients in Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream include:

• Carbonated water (the base)
• Natural and artificial flavors (creating the strawberries and cream taste profile)
• Citric acid (for tartness and as a preservative)
• Potassium citrate (an acidity regulator)
• Aspartame and acesulfame potassium (artificial sweeteners)
• Calcium disodium EDTA (preservative)
• Red 40 (color)

The presence of artificial sweeteners explains how the product achieves its sweet taste without calories. Specifically, aspartame and acesulfame potassium (often abbreviated as Ace-K) are non-nutritive sweeteners approved by the FDA but controversial in some health circles.

For those with phenylketonuria (PKU), it’s important to note that aspartame contains phenylalanine, and the product does carry the appropriate warning label for this condition.

The red coloring comes from Red 40, a certified food coloring that gives the beverage its characteristic light pink hue, enhancing the strawberry visual cue.

Is Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream Actually Healthy?

This question requires nuance, and the answer largely depends on what you’re comparing it to and your personal definition of “healthy.”

If you’re comparing it to plain water, then no – plain water is always going to be the gold standard for hydration without any additives. However, if you’re comparing it to sodas, fruit juices, or other flavored beverages with actual sugar content, Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream offers several advantages:

• Zero calories means it won’t contribute to caloric excess
• Zero sugar means it won’t cause blood sugar spikes
• The carbonation may help some people feel fuller and more satisfied
• It encourages hydration for people who find plain water boring

The controversial element comes down to the artificial sweeteners. Research on artificial sweeteners has yielded mixed results. Some studies suggest potential negative effects on gut bacteria, glucose metabolism, and even potential links to increased appetite. Other research indicates they’re safe for consumption within established acceptable daily intake levels.

For my part, I view it as a “better than” alternative. It’s better than drinking sugary sodas or juices, and if it helps me drink more fluids throughout the day when I might otherwise reach for something less healthy, that’s a net positive. I balance my intake with plenty of plain water as well, using Clear American as a treat rather than my exclusive hydration source.

The bottom line: Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream can be part of a healthy diet for most people, especially as a replacement for higher-calorie, sugary beverages. However, those with specific health concerns about artificial sweeteners may want to consult with healthcare providers or choose naturally flavored alternatives.

Dietary Considerations: Keto, Gluten-Free, Vegan, and More

One of the advantages of a beverage with such a simple ingredient profile is its compatibility with various dietary approaches. Here’s how Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream fits into different eating patterns:

Keto-Friendly?

With zero carbs and zero calories, Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream is technically compatible with a ketogenic diet. The artificial sweeteners used don’t impact blood sugar in the same way as regular sugar, making it a popular choice among keto adherents. However, some strict keto followers avoid artificial sweeteners entirely due to concerns about potential indirect effects on insulin response or cravings.

Gluten-Free Status

There are no gluten-containing ingredients in Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The product doesn’t contain wheat, barley, rye, or any derivatives that would introduce gluten into the formula.

Vegan Considerations

The product appears to be vegan as it doesn’t contain any obvious animal-derived ingredients. The “cream” flavor comes from artificial flavoring rather than actual dairy cream. However, extremely strict vegans might want to research the specific manufacturing processes of the artificial colorings and flavorings if they avoid all products with any potential animal testing in their development history.

Caffeine Content

For those sensitive to caffeine or monitoring their intake, you’ll be pleased to know that Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream contains no caffeine. It won’t contribute to jitters, sleep disturbances, or other caffeine-related concerns, making it suitable for evening consumption or for those avoiding caffeine entirely.

Where Can You Find Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream?

As someone who has occasionally gone to embarrassing lengths to maintain my supply, I’ve become something of an expert on sourcing this specific flavor. Clear American is Walmart’s exclusive brand, which means your primary source will always be Walmart stores. However, within that framework, there are several options:

In-Store at Walmart

The most reliable way to purchase Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream is directly from Walmart stores. You’ll typically find it in the water and beverage aisle, alongside other sparkling waters and seltzers. The product usually comes in:

• 12-packs of 12 oz cans
• 1-liter bottles (sold individually)
• 2-liter bottles (sold individually)

In my experience, the Strawberries and Cream flavor is popular enough to be consistently stocked but niche enough that it sometimes sells out between restocks. If your local store is frequently out of stock, consider asking the department manager about their restocking schedule.

Walmart Grocery Pickup and Delivery

For convenience, Walmart’s online grocery service allows you to order Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream for pickup or delivery. This has been my go-to method, especially for stocking up on multiple packs without having to lug them through the store.

The Walmart app or website lets you check availability at your local store before placing an order, saving you a wasted trip if your preferred size or quantity is out of stock.

Online Options

While Walmart is the exclusive retailer, some third-party sellers on platforms like eBay and Amazon occasionally list Clear American products at marked-up prices. I personally avoid these options due to the significant price premium and potential freshness concerns, but they exist as a last resort for those who don’t live near a Walmart.

Seasonal Availability

One important note: I’ve observed that the Strawberries and Cream flavor seems to receive more prominent placement and better stock levels during spring and summer months, likely due to its seasonal association with strawberry season and summer desserts. If you’re as devoted to it as I am, consider stocking up during these periods.

Price Comparison: Value for Money

Part of the appeal of Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream is its affordability compared to premium sparkling water brands. Based on my regular purchases (as of my last check at my local Walmart):

• 12-pack of 12 oz cans: Approximately $3.98 (about 33 cents per can)
• 1-liter bottle: Approximately $0.88 per bottle
• 2-liter bottle: Approximately $1.28 per bottle

This pricing makes it significantly more affordable than brands like LaCroix, Spindrift, or Waterloo, which typically run $4-6 for an 8-pack of cans. Even compared to other budget-friendly options like store brand seltzers, Clear American tends to be competitively priced while offering more distinctive flavors.

When calculating value, I also consider the “enjoyment factor” – I’m much more likely to finish and enjoy a can of Strawberries and Cream than I am a can of plain seltzer, which means less waste and better hydration.

Comparing to Other Clear American Flavors

The Clear American line includes dozens of flavors, from standard offerings like Lemon and Lime to more exotic combinations like Fuji Apple Pear and Mandarin Orange. Having tried nearly every flavor available (yes, my Walmart cashiers know me by name), I can offer some comparisons to help situate Strawberries and Cream within the broader lineup:

Most Similar Alternatives

If you enjoy Strawberries and Cream but want to branch out, consider these similar Clear American flavors:

• White Peach: Offers a similar dessert-like sweetness with a stone fruit profile
• Cherry Vanilla: Captures a similar “dessert in a can” experience with a different fruit base
• Orange Cream: Evokes the classic creamsicle flavor, with the same creamy undertone

Most Different Alternatives

For those looking to expand their palate in new directions:

• Key Lime: Much more tart and citrus-forward
• Black Cherry: Deeper, more intense fruit flavor without the creamy element
• Coconut: Tropical profile that stands apart from the berry-based options

Intensity Comparison

On a scale of flavor intensity, Strawberries and Cream ranks high – it’s one of the more boldly flavored options in the Clear American lineup. If you find it too intense, you might prefer their subtler offerings like Simply Sparkling or the standard berry flavors. If you love the intensity, you’ll likely also enjoy their Vanilla and Orange Cream variations.

Creative Uses Beyond Basic Drinking

While Strawberries and Cream is delightful straight from the can or bottle, I’ve discovered several creative ways to incorporate it into my culinary life:

As a Cocktail Mixer

The sweet, fruity profile of Strawberries and Cream makes it an excellent base for light, refreshing cocktails:

• Creamy Strawberry Vodka Fizz: 1.5 oz vanilla vodka, 6 oz Clear American Strawberries and Cream, squeeze of fresh lemon
• Strawberry Cream Gin Spritz: 1.5 oz gin, 6 oz Clear American Strawberries and Cream, fresh mint leaves
• Low-Calorie Pink Mimosa: 3 oz champagne or prosecco, 3 oz Clear American Strawberries and Cream

The advantage of using it as a mixer is creating cocktails with significantly fewer calories than those made with traditional mixers like soda, juice, or simple syrup.

In Cooking and Baking

While it might sound odd, the flavored water can add a subtle flavor boost to various recipes:

• Use it instead of plain water when making light jellies or gelatin
• Incorporate into popsicle recipes for a low-calorie treat
• Reduce it down to create a zero-calorie flavor essence for drizzling over fruit desserts

Frozen Treats

During summer months, I’ve taken to freezing Clear American Strawberries and Cream in ice cube trays, creating flavor-infused ice cubes that slowly release their strawberry essence as they melt in a glass of plain sparkling water or even in a smoothie.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

While Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream is generally well-tolerated, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

Carbonation Effects

The carbonation can cause:

• Bloating or gas for some individuals
• Potential dental concerns (carbonated beverages are slightly acidic)
• Burping (socially awkward but physically relieving)

I find that pouring it into a glass and letting it sit for a minute or two reduces the carbonation if it’s causing discomfort.

Artificial Sweetener Reactions

Some people report various reactions to artificial sweeteners, including:

• Headaches
• Digestive discomfort
• Altered taste perception with other foods

If you’re new to artificial sweeteners, it might be wise to start with small amounts and see how your body responds.

Dental Considerations

Both carbonation and citric acid (an ingredient in the formula) can potentially contribute to enamel erosion over time. As a dental hygienist once suggested to me, consider:

• Using a straw to minimize contact with teeth
• Rinsing with plain water after consuming
• Not brushing immediately after drinking (it can actually worsen enamel erosion)

The Environmental Angle

As with any packaged beverage, there’s an environmental impact to consider. The clear American packaging includes:

Aluminum Cans

These are highly recyclable, with aluminum having one of the better recycling infrastructures in the US. I make sure to rinse and place these in my recycling bin.

Plastic Bottles

The 1-liter and 2-liter bottles are recyclable in most municipal programs, but plastic recycling has more challenges than aluminum. I try to opt for cans when possible or ensure proper recycling of the bottles.

Bulk Packaging

The cardboard cases for 12-packs are recyclable, and buying in bulk generally reduces packaging waste per unit compared to individual purchases.

For the environmentally conscious consumer, aluminum cans represent the more sustainable choice between the packaging options, though neither is as environmentally friendly as using a reusable water bottle with filtered tap water.

Consumer Reviews and Community Opinions

I’m not alone in my appreciation for Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream. Across various online platforms, the flavor has developed something of a cult following. Common themes in reviews include:

Positive Sentiments

• “Tastes just like strawberry ice cream without the calories!”
• “The best flavored water I’ve ever tried”
• “Satisfies my sweet tooth without derailing my diet”
• “Got me to finally quit soda for good”

Critical Perspectives

• “Too artificial tasting”
• “The sweetener aftertaste is too strong”
• “Inconsistent flavor between batches”
• “Not enough ‘cream’ flavor”

The polarization seems to center around the artificial sweetener profile – those who are sensitive to or dislike artificial sweeteners tend to rate it poorly, while those who enjoy or don’t detect the specific taste of aspartame tend to be enthusiastic fans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream

Through my journey of discovery and countless conversations with curious friends and family who’ve spotted my perpetual supply, I’ve fielded many questions about this beverage. Here are the most common ones:

“Does it actually hydrate you like water?”

Yes, the base of the product is water, and it contributes to hydration just like plain water. The carbonation and additives don’t negate its hydrating properties, though extremely carbonated beverages might temporarily make you feel fuller, potentially reducing how much you drink in one sitting.

“Is it better than diet soda?”

From an ingredient perspective, it contains fewer additives than most diet sodas, with no phosphoric acid or caffeine. However, it does share the artificial sweetener profile with many diet beverages. I personally consider it a step up from diet soda, but those avoiding artificial sweeteners entirely would disagree.

“Can I drink it every day?”

Within reasonable amounts, most people can consume it daily without issues. As with anything, moderation is key. I alternate between this flavored sparkling water and plain water throughout my day.

“Does it break a fast?”

For those practicing intermittent fasting, the technical answer is that zero-calorie beverages shouldn’t break a caloric fast. However, some fasting purists avoid anything with sweeteners (even artificial ones) during fasting periods, claiming they can trigger certain metabolic responses. This remains somewhat controversial in fasting communities.

“Will it stain if spilled?”

Despite the light pink color, I’ve found it doesn’t leave permanent stains on most fabrics or surfaces. The coloring is minimal compared to darker sodas or juices.

The Future of Clear American Strawberries and Cream

As someone who watches the beverage market with perhaps too much interest, I’ve noticed a few trends that might impact the future of this particular product:

Seasonal Variations

Walmart occasionally releases limited-edition variations on popular flavors. I’m holding out hope for a “Strawberries and Cream Remix” or perhaps a “Strawberry Shortcake” variant that builds on the popularity of this flavor profile.

Packaging Evolution

The beverage industry as a whole is moving toward more sustainable packaging solutions, and store brands typically follow these trends. We might see changes to the can design, plastic formulation, or recycling instructions in coming years.

Response to Health Trends

As consumer preferences evolve, it’s possible we could see versions sweetened with natural alternatives like stevia or monk fruit if the backlash against artificial sweeteners continues to grow.

My Personal Verdict

After countless cans, bottles, and even a few accidental spills on my favorite shirts, my relationship with Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream has evolved from casual interest to devoted appreciation. It’s become my reliable companion through work days, workout recoveries, and weekend relaxation.

Is it a perfect beverage? No. The use of artificial sweeteners means it’s not aligned with the most natural or whole-food focused approaches to nutrition. The flavor, while delightful, is undeniably more reminiscent of strawberry candy than fresh strawberries with cream.

But perfection isn’t always the goal when it comes to making sustainable lifestyle choices. Finding balance between enjoyment and nutrition is the key to maintaining healthy habits long-term, and this beverage represents exactly that kind of practical compromise for me.

For anyone looking to reduce sugar intake, cut calories, or simply add variety to their hydration routine, Clear American Sparkling Water Strawberries and Cream offers a unique, affordable, and accessible option that genuinely delivers on its flavor promise. Whether you’re a sparkling water connoisseur or a soda drinker looking to make healthier choices, it’s worth adding to your shopping cart at least once to form your own opinion.

And if you happen to clear the shelf at your local Walmart, please leave at least one pack for me. My fridge feels empty without it.