If you’re under the legal drinking age, stop reading now. But if you are of legal age and plan on enjoying a cocktail or two, it may be tempting to indulge in the convenience of purchasing a pre-made cocktail package. These junk cocktail packages are readily available at your local liquor store or online, but before you purchase one, there are some things you should know.
First and foremost, junk cocktail packages are often chock-full of sugar and artificial flavors. This means they may taste good, but they are not the healthiest option. More importantly, the added sugar can be especially dangerous for those with diabetes or other health issues.
Additionally, many of these packages claim to be “craft” or “artisanal, ” but don’t let the fancy labels fool you. These mass-produced cocktails are not made with the care and attention that true artisan cocktails are crafted with. They’re not even close.
In fact, many of these pre-made cocktails are mixed with low-quality alcohol to cut costs. This not only affects the taste but also the overall quality of the beverage. The cheaper the alcohol, the worse the hangover.
Another concern is the lack of transparency when it comes to listing the ingredients in junk cocktail packages. You may not know exactly what you’re drinking, and this can be especially problematic for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. Some packages may also contain preservatives or other additives that you would prefer to avoid.
Buying these packages is not smart financially either. For the same amount of money it takes to buy one of these packages, you can buy a bottle of decent quality alcohol and mixers and have multiple servings. It’s more cost-effective and allows you to control the ingredients and the amount of alcohol you are consuming.
Finally, the environmental impact of junk cocktail packages is a concern. These packages often come in non-recyclable materials such as single-use plastic containers, which end up in landfills and contribute to the growing amount of plastic waste in our environment.
So, what should you do if you want to enjoy a tasty cocktail without the added risks and consequences of junk cocktail packages?
The best course of action is to make your own cocktails. It’s more fun, creative, and rewarding. You can control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresh and of high quality. You can also adjust the alcohol content to your liking.
There are plenty of easy recipes online that don’t require any fancy equipment or advanced mixology skills. All you need is a shaker, some ice, fresh ingredients, and a good quality spirit.
If you’re not feeling up to making your own cocktails, you can still enjoy a pre-made cocktail, but opt for the ones made with all-natural and fresh ingredients. Look for labels that list real fruit juices and natural flavors. These cocktails may cost a bit more, but they are worth the extra money.
Junk cocktail packages may be a convenient option, but they come with a host of concerns that make them a less-than-ideal choice. Instead, opt for making your own cocktails or purchasing ones made with natural and fresh ingredients. By doing so, not only will you be avoiding the potential consequences of consuming junk cocktail packages, but you’ll also be supporting local artisans and reducing your environmental impact.
