Yes, Jamba Juice adds sugar to many of its smoothies and beverages, though they also offer options with no added sugars for healthier choices.
Jamba Juice is famous for its vibrant smoothies and fresh juices, but many health-conscious customers wonder: do they add extra sugar? The answer is yes—most Jamba Juice smoothies contain added sugars, often in the form of fruit juice blends, sherbet, frozen yogurt, or sweeteners like honey and agave. While some options are healthier than others, many drinks pack as much sugar as a dessert.
How Much Sugar Is in Jamba Juice Smoothies?
Many Jamba Juice smoothies contain between 40-60 grams of sugar per serving, sometimes even more. For comparison, the American Heart Association recommends no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day for women and 36 grams for men. Some of the highest-sugar options include:
- Peach Pleasure® – 75g sugar (large size)
- Strawberry Whirl® – 68g sugar (large size)
- Mango-a-Go-Go® – 58g sugar (16 oz)
Even seemingly healthy choices, like the Green Smoothies, often rely on apple or strawberry juice blends as primary ingredients, significantly increasing sugar content.
Why Added Sugar Matters
While fruit naturally contains sugar, blending and juicing processes remove fiber, causing faster sugar absorption. Added sweeteners like honey, agave, or sherbet further spike sugar levels without nutritional benefits. Overconsumption of sugary drinks is linked to weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease.
Healthier Jamba Juice Options
Not all Jamba Juice drinks are sugar bombs. You can make smarter choices by:
- Opting for “All-Fruit” smoothies – These skip added sweeteners.
- Choosing veggie-based blends – Like the Carrot Orange Fusion with chia seeds and Greek yogurt.
- Customizing your order – Ask for no honey, sherbet, or juice blends.
For a lower-sugar alternative, try the Cold Brew Matcha or Protein Berry Workout smoothie with whey protein.
Best Low-Sugar Smoothies at Jamba Juice
| Smoothie | Sugar (16 oz) |
|---|---|
| Cold Brew Matcha | 22g |
| Protein Berry Workout | 28g |
| Carrot Orange Fusion | 32g |
Are Jamba Juice Smoothies Healthy?
While Jamba Juice markets its drinks as nutritious, many are closer to desserts. The Center for Science in the Public Interest criticizes the chain for misleading health claims. Smoothies often lack fiber and protein, making them less filling than whole fruits.
If you want a truly healthy drink, consider making smoothies at home with a high-quality blender to control ingredients.
Better Alternatives to Jamba Juice
Instead of sugary smoothies, try:
- Whole fruits – More fiber, fewer calories.
- Homemade smoothies – Use unsweetened almond milk, spinach, and berries.
- Cold-pressed juices – Made with a cold press juicer for maximum nutrients.
Final Thoughts
Jamba Juice smoothies often contain high amounts of added sugar, making them more of an occasional treat than a health food. By choosing wisely and customizing orders, you can enjoy a lower-sugar option. For the healthiest results, blending at home gives you full control over ingredients.
