Ube Latte, “health” sodas, salty coffee … whether you spend your days scrolling or not on social networks, you could not miss these drinks. But what are they really worth?
Written 07/05/2025
Le Mag de la Santé – France 5
Its funny purple color directly attracts the eye. For the past few months, trendy coffees have been seeing a deep purple drink flourish: the latte based on ube. This tuber from the Philippines is used in many preparations, from pastries to ice, including drinks. What makes its success on social networks is first of all its very photogenic lavender color, but also its reputation as a drink “good for health”.
From a nutritional point of view, the UBE is not without interest. It is naturally rich in protein and fiber, making it a food favorable to intestinal transit according to Doctor Arnaud Cocaul, nutritionist. Another asset: the absence of caffeine, which allows you to consume this drink at any time of the day without fear of disturbing your sleep.
Read also: What are the best sources of fiber?
-Are “healthy” sodas better than classic sodas?
Another viral phenomenon from the United States: new sodas so-called good for health. Less sweet, enriched with ingredients like chicory or apple cider vinegar, they want a healthier alternative to classic sodas. At first glance, the idea and nutritional values are attractive: about 3 grams of sugar per can against 35 grams for a traditional soda, the equivalent of two pieces of sugar instead of seven.
As the nutritionist Laurence Plumey recalls, these drinks still contain sugar, and their consumption must therefore remain moderate. As for the promises around the prebiotics they would contain, they must be put into perspective. According to Dr Cocaul, their concentration is too low for a real beneficial effect on the microbiota. Rather, it recommends fermented foods such as cheese or kefir, which are naturally richer in prebiotics.
Is salty coffee good for health?
The last drink to make the buzz in recent months is undoubtedly the most surprising: the Salé coffee, or “CA Phe Muoi”, a specialty from Vietnam. It is a coffee with sweet condensed milk, surmounted by a foam containing a small amount of salt. The salt enhances the aromas of coffee and sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Gustatoryly, the contrast works.
But on the nutritional level, this is again a “pleasure” drink, which can be consumed once in a while but not too regularly according to Dr. Laurence Plumey. Indeed, our daily diet already contains largely enough sugar and salt, especially in industrial dishes, sauces or cold cuts. Excessive consumption can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
