Criteria for Coding Beverages

Water without flavoring, additives, or carbonation
Low-fat (1%) and nonfat (skim) (in 8 oz. portions):

• Lactose-free and soy beverages are included
• Flavored milk with no more than 22 g of total sugars per 8-oz. portion

100-percent fruit or low-sodium vegetable juice in 8 oz.

Beverages in this category are considered Tier 1 beverages according to the Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines and are consistent with the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. 

Non-fortified low-sodium beverages with less than 5 calories per portion as packaged (with or without artificial sweeteners, carbonation, or flavoring)

Beverages in this category are considered Tier 2 foods according to the IOM guidelines and are consistent with the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.