Many of us wouldn’t say no to a good cup of boba but there’s always that twinge of guilt that eats us up when we realise that we’re consuming nothing but carbs and calories.
Well, it looks like you won’t have to keep worrying about that much longer as a new healthier alternative to our favourite indulgence drink is about to hit Malaysian shores real soon!
According to Malay Mail, Holista and home-grown fruit juice manufacturer, SunFresh Fruit Hub Sdn Bhd, are in joint collaboration to make three key boba ingredients (the pearl, sugar syrup and sugar caramel) a whole lot healthier WHILE maintaining the taste and texture of each component!
This is a HUGE game-changer for the boba scene given that many studies have shown how too much bubble tea could lead to many health risks, such as diabetes and obesity.
The manufacturers plan on making these ingredients with low-glycemic index (GI), which measures how much a food impacts our blood sugar levels.
Holista founder, Datuk Dr Rajen Manicka says that the sugar syrup used to make this variation of boba will have 80 percent fewer calories while still delivering the same sensational taste!
“The challenge is to offer a healthier version which can significantly reduce the potential of higher incidence of diabetes and obesity.”
“We are combining science with the market reach and understanding of the needs of bubble tea manufacturers and vendors to offer a healthier alternative that is affordable.”
Considering that an average cup of 500ml boba contains AT LEAST 8.5 teaspoons of sugar and can range anywhere between 281 and 640 calories, this is a huge step into a brighter, healthier future for us boba lovers.
The Sydney University Glycemic Index Research Service (SUGiRS) will begin research and product trials this month, where testing will be done as per international standards for GI before the product can be passed to hit local and international markets by the start of 2020.
Guilt-free boba? We’re sold.
Also read: Malaysian Girl Quits Bubble Tea for 4 Months, Saves Enough Money to Buy Overseas Flight Tickets