Mug Root Beer
Mug Root Beer is a classic root beer beverage served at Panda Express. Root beer is a sweet, carbonated soft drink traditionally flavored with sassafras root, vanilla, licorice, and other spices. Mug Root Beer, specifically, is known for its smooth, sweet taste with a hint of wintergreen and vanilla, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy non-citrus, root-based sodas. It’s a great pairing for those looking for a nostalgic, creamy soda to complement their meal.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Mug Root Beer at Panda Express:
Calories
Per 16 oz serving: Approximately 170 calories. Caloric content can vary slightly depending on portion size, but this is a standard estimate for a 16 oz serving.
Ingredients
- Carbonated Water
- High Fructose Corn Syrup (or sometimes cane sugar, depending on the location and formulation)
- Natural and Artificial Flavors (root beer flavoring, including wintergreen, vanilla, and licorice notes)
- Caramel Color (for the drink’s deep brown color)
- Sodium Benzoate (preservative)
- Caffeine: Mug Root Beer is caffeine-free.
Mug Root Beer’s flavor comes from a blend of herbs, spices, and natural flavors that make up the classic root beer profile. The caramel color gives it its signature deep brown hue, and the sweetness comes primarily from high fructose corn syrup or sugar.
Estimated Nutritional Information (per 16 oz serving)
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 40-60 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 46g
- Sugars: 46g (primarily from high fructose corn syrup or sugar)
- Protein: 0g
- Caffeine: 0 mg (Mug Root Beer is caffeine-free)
- Fiber: 0g
Allergens
Contains: None (Mug Root Beer at Panda Express is free from common allergens like dairy, gluten, or nuts.
However, if you are sensitive to artificial ingredients or food colorings, be aware that Mug Root Beer contains caramel color and artificial flavors. These ingredients can be of concern for some people who prefer to avoid artificial additives.
Recommendation
Mug Root Beer is a great choice if you’re in the mood for a creamy, sweet, and refreshing soda with a nostalgic flavor. Its smooth and flavorful profile makes it a perfect match for a variety of dishes, particularly those with rich, savory, or slightly spicy flavors. It pairs well with Panda Express’s popular menu items like Orange Chicken, SweetFire Chicken Breast, or Beijing Beef, where the sweetness of the root beer can balance out the savory and sweet-spicy flavors of the dishes.
Custom Options: If you’re trying to cut back on sugar or calories, you may want to consider ordering a smaller portion or opting for water, unsweetened iced tea, or a diet soda. Keep in mind that while Mug Root Beer is a treat, it’s high in sugar, so it’s best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.
Mug Root Beer offers a classic, sweet soda experience without caffeine, making it a good option for those who are sensitive to caffeine but still enjoy a flavorful, fizzy beverage. Its smooth taste and high sweetness make it a favorite for many soda lovers.
Please Note: Prices may vary by location, size, and local pricing policies. Generally, you can expect it for a standard size. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to check the Panda Express Mobile App or visit a local store.
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