+RED POWER 20 ELIXIR
This is a review of the low-calorie version of +RED, +RED POWER 20 ELIXIR.
It’s interesting that, unlike typical energy drink brands, it’s not just a low-calorie version of the regular flavor, but a completely different flavor altogether.
Author: Energy Drink-kun
In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.
Flavor of +RED POWER 20 ELIXIR
When poured into a glass, I was amazed by the beauty of the color. It has an elegant champagne-like hue. If the original +RED and this one were placed side by side, I’d be overwhelmed by the luxurious feel of both.
When I drank it, the flavor reminded me of plum, with a tart apple flavor lingering in the aftertaste. There's also a fresh peach-like aroma and a light sweetness. The aftertaste is clean, and it brings a refreshing sensation similar to the Rockstar Sparkling sold in Japan.
Strictly speaking, it’s not as crisp as sparkling drinks, but it’s refreshing and smooth without feeling lacking, which is a similar kind of deliciousness. Despite being low-calorie, I’m happy that the artificial sweetener taste is kept to a minimum.
However, the overall flavor is not very distinct (^_^;) They say it’s a berry citrus flavor, but it’s much more refreshing than berry, and it’s a taste that cannot be easily categorized.
Energy Ingredients of +RED POWER 20 ELIXIR
It contains 120mg of caffeine, taurine, carnitine, and more.
In addition, though in small amounts, it also includes red algae, which is a feature of +RED, and it’s expected to have antioxidant effects.
Furthermore, it’s low-GI, helping to prevent sudden blood sugar spikes and providing long-lasting energy. This is a characteristic that stands out in newer energy drinks aimed at promoting their functionality.
For +RED POWER 20 ELIXIR, it’s written that it helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, unlike the +RED POWER ELIXIR, which is also low in sugar but keeps it stable without much fluctuation.
The white line in the label indicates its low-GI feature, but it’s not immediately obvious (^_^;)
Design of +RED POWER 20 ELIXIR
The white and red colors stand out quite a bit, and personally, I prefer the appearance of this over the original gray one (●´ω`●). The matte and smooth texture of the can makes it feel cleaner and more luxurious compared to the gray +RED POWER 20 ELIXIR.
With such different designs, colors, tastes, and ingredients, I find it more enjoyable when energy drinks are categorized like +RED POWER, offering separate flavors rather than just regular and low-calorie versions. This way, I feel like I’m getting a special treat with each one.
Moreover, the +RED POWER series has excellent can designs. It would have been great if there were more variations of flavors, ingredients, and designs within the +RED POWER series... But recently, it seems like there’s been little movement in this regard (´・ω・`)
Energy Drink-kun's Personal Rating
- Flavor
- Aroma
- Weight
- Freshness
- Munchiness