Well I normally don't dive into the pumpkin spice latte land (or should I say argument) because frankly, I do what I do and others can do what they do, but this year I felt the need to consume some actual pumpkin spice, not the artificial crap but the actual spices in a beautiful tea latte.
The biggest reason I never jumped on the PSL train would definitely be the ingredients that are in a typical pumpkin spice latte. They vary depending upon where you purchase this drink but a few of the less than desirable ingredients from a Starbucks include Natural Flavors, Potassium Sorbate, Carageenan, Potassium Sorbate, and Sulfiting Agents. (There are more but wanted to keep it fairly short)
Natural Flavors: Natural flavors are almost the exact same thing as artificial flavors (I know this made me sad too). These are made from things that do occur in nature (animals, plants etc.) but they also can include solvents, emulsifiers, preservatives, and other additives which can make up to 80% of the formula.
Carageenan: This one has been talked about for awhile now with a lot of back and forth regarding the health impacts of consuming it. Some evidence suggests that carrageenan can cause inflammation, gastrointestinal ulcerations, and further damage to your digestive system.
Sulfiting agents: There six of these that are used in food production in this country (let's note how Starbucks doesn't actually tell us which ones are this 'drink'); sulfur dioxide, sodium and potassium metabisulfite, sodium and potassium bisulfite and sodium sulfite. These have been banned by the FDA for use on fruits and veggies that are meant to be consumed raw. Many people have reactions to the the sulfites in wine but this can happen in any other processed foods that you might be consuming.
Potassium Sorbate: This is a synthetically produced salt and is a widely used preservative in food, some personal care products and drinks. This is another one that there has been much back and forth with. With large amounts (more than is technically allowed in food) of this it has been shown in animal studies to cause reproductive and developmental toxicity.
So instead of buying it, I'm on the hunt for a recipe to make my own! If you have one please share! 🍂
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