From a creamy banana drink to an Asian banana snack, there’s plenty to choose from, but product names don’t always tell the whole story. A product labelled “banana flavour”, for example, may contain very little banana. Portion size, allergens and storage instructions are also more important than attractive packaging.
This guide will help you compare banana products using information you can check. That way, you can choose a banana snack, banana drink, banana juice, banana yoghurt snack or banana protein powder to suit the occasion.
A banana-flavoured product may contain real banana, banana powder, concentrated juice or flavouring alone. So check the ingredients list and the order in which they appear. Ingredients are listed in descending order by quantity.
For example, a banana drink may list sugar before banana juice. That tells you more about what’s in it than a picture of a banana on the packaging. In a snack such as banana-flavoured biscuit sticks, banana may make up only a small percentage of the recipe.
Fruit and dairy ingredients contain naturally occurring sugars. According to the product information, the Organix fruit pouch has no added sugar and contains naturally occurring sugars. That’s not the same as a product with no sugars.
So compare the nutritional information per 100 g or 100 ml. Pay particular attention to carbohydrates, which include sugars. A small portion may still provide a different amount of sugar from a one-litre carton.
Squeezy pouches and small drinks cartons are handy on the go, but age guidance and storage instructions still matter. Banana baby food isn’t necessarily suitable for children younger than the age stated on the label. Also check for allergens such as milk, soya, oats and cereals containing gluten.
Instructions for after opening vary by product. According to the product information, an Organix product should be kept chilled for no more than one day, while Olvarit should be used within 48 hours of opening. Always check the latest packaging.
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Banana juice may seem like a fruitier choice, but check whether it’s juice, purée or a drink with flavouring. For a banana yoghurt snack, the type of dairy and the amount of fruit also matter.
A one-litre carton may be better value for home use. According to the product information, Alpro Soya Drink Banana 1 L contains 58 kcal and 3 g of protein per 100 ml. Single-portion packs are more convenient on the go. The 3 x 250 ml version is designed for lunchboxes, breakfast or enjoying away from home.
With multipacks, check the total quantity as well as how long the product will keep after opening. A large pack is only practical if you can use it in time.
For young children, age guidance and preparation instructions are essential. According to the product information, Olvarit Banana Apple Yogurt is suitable from 6 months and contains milk. Organix BIO Nutri Fiber Banana Yoghurt Blueberry Oats is intended for children aged 12 months and over, and contains milk and cereals containing gluten.
If you follow a vegan diet, don’t just look for the word “plant-based”: check the full ingredients list and allergen information. According to its product description, Alpro Soya Drink Banana is sold as vegan and lactose-free, and contains soya.
Why it suits this profile: The one-litre carton is handy for breakfast, recipes or regular use at home. The drink can be served chilled.
The nutritional information gives the amount of sugar, protein and energy per 100 ml, so you don’t have to rely on the word “banana” in the name.
1-litre carton; according to the product information, it’s vegan, lactose-free and a source of plant protein.
Why it suits this profile: This banana protein powder is aimed at adults with an active lifestyle who want to top up their daily protein intake.
The product information states that each serving contains 24 g of protein and lists milk and soya as allergens. Check the packaging before use.
780 g; according to the product description, it provides 24 g of protein per serving and has a banana cream flavour.
Why it suits this profile: The three 250 ml portions are handy for journeys, work, school or a lunchbox.
Individual portions help reduce waste after opening. The product information also says the drink is ready to use.
3 x 250 ml; according to the product description, it’s vegan and lactose-free, with soya listed as an allergen.
Why it suits this profile: This Korean banana drink combines carbonation with a banana yoghurt-like flavour, for anyone looking for something different from a standard fruit drink.
The product information states that it contains 12 g of sugar per 100 ml and lists milk and soya as allergens. This makes it easier to compare the product with others.
250 ml serving; a carbonated drink from Korea with a banana yoghurt flavour.
We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.
Check the ingredients and allergen information. According to its product description, Alpro Soya Drink Banana is sold as vegan and is made from soya. Always check the label when you buy, as ingredients can change.
Follow the instructions on the packaging. According to the product information, the Organix fruit pouch should be refrigerated after opening and used within one day. Olvarit gives a maximum storage time of 48 hours. If in doubt, follow the shorter time limit and check the smell, packaging and use-by information.
Banana protein powder is generally intended for healthy adults who want to add extra protein to their diet. According to the product information, the Optimum Nutrition version contains milk and soya. If you have allergies or a medical condition, or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s a good idea to check the label and usage warnings first. A supplement is no substitute for a varied diet.