BuzzBallz Cocktails: The Gen Z Craze with a Hidden Punch

In a vibrant array of colors and fruity flavors, BuzzBallz are rapidly becoming the alcoholic beverage of choice among Gen Z this summer. However, experts caution that these visually appealing orbs are deceptively potent, with alarmingly high sugar and carbohydrate contents.

The compact cans, small enough to fit into a handbag, are available for as little as £2.99. Despite their convenience and popularity, nutritionist Rachael Gray has labeled them as “the worst” drinks for health she has ever encountered. She explained, “Drinks like these affect the body in all kinds of ways. They cause inflammation and dehydration and over time will damage the liver and eyesight.”

Health Concerns and Misleading Appearances

Gray further emphasized the potential dangers, noting, “They look so appealing. You can see how they would appeal to children, which is really worrying. The carb and sugar content of these drinks is extremely high. For such a small drink, they are very alcoholic. That’s dangerous as, if you are young, you might not think to look at the volume. They don’t even look particularly like they’re alcoholic. They could easily be mistaken for an energy drink.”

BuzzBallz pack up to 288 calories and 26g of sugar per 200ml drink, making them one of the least healthy options on the market. With an alcohol content of 13.5 percent, equivalent to wine, the high sugar content makes them easy to consume quickly.

A Social Media Sensation

The unique packaging and flavors such as Tequila ’Rita, Chili Mango, and Pornstar Martini make BuzzBallz stand out on supermarket shelves. Available at major retailers like Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Asda, they are most affordable at Aldi, priced at £2.99. Over the past year, sales have tripled, driven by affordability and a strong social media presence. TikTok is filled with “before and after” videos showcasing their effects.

“I have never had a hangover like that in my life. I was paralytic,” shared one woman who consumed just two of the sugary blends.

Another user described the experience as, “I felt like I’d just drank gasoline,” while a third commented, “I actually don’t think those are fit for human consumption.”

The Origin and Expansion of BuzzBallz

The concept of BuzzBallz originated with Merrilee Kick, a teacher from Texas, who envisioned the idea while grading papers by the pool in the mid-2000s. Inspired by the spherical shape of a snow globe and tennis balls, she sought a cocktail in a plastic container rather than a fragile glass. With a loan and family support, she launched BuzzBallz, which are now sold globally. In April 2024, the company was sold for approximately $500 million.

Taste Test and Consumer Opinions

Here, we explore some of the flavors and gather opinions from two women with contrasting views on the drink.

Tequila ’Rita (18g sugar, 219 cals): “This citrusy cocktail tastes like a toxic Sprite. It’s refreshing, but gulp it too fast and it’s in danger of taking the skin off the roof of your mouth,” said Victoria Williams.

Strawberry ’Rita (18g sugar, 220 cals): “I could easily neck the entire drink in less than a minute. It’s sweet, potent and delicious. A few more of these and I will be on the floor,” Victoria added.

Choc Tease (26g sugar, 279 cals): “This tastes like a slightly low-rent Baileys. It’s creamy, sweet and incredibly boozy. I just want to pour it into an ice-filled tumbler,” she noted.

BuzzBallz: A Generation’s Favorite or a Health Risk?

College student Izzy Lopez, 19, believes BuzzBallz are the perfect boozy refresher for long, hot days. “BuzzBallz are the must-have drink for Gen Z this summer, especially at festivals and on beach holidays. They’re easy to carry and drink,” she said. “The containers and colors are cool and you can pop them in your bag and enjoy one when you’re out.”

Izzy praised their affordability, stating, “It’s a cool cost-of-living-beating cocktail for Gen Z. All my friends are talking about them. They evoke a sense of fun, they’re great as a party starter and you can keep the balls afterwards for candle holders.”

However, not everyone shares Izzy’s enthusiasm. Cindy Powell, a 22-year-old mother of two, recounted a different experience. “Just two hit me hard almost immediately. I was knocked out and slept for hours,” she explained. “What stunned me was how fast I felt the effect – I hadn’t even been tired. I’m not a big drinker, but two small drinks having such a dramatic impact was scary.”

“Don’t be fooled by fun names like Strawberry ’Rita or one looking like chocolate milk. Just because they look like toys, you still need to be safe,” Cindy warned.

As BuzzBallz continue to grow in popularity, the debate around their health implications and appeal to younger audiences persists. While they offer a fun and affordable option for social gatherings, the potential health risks cannot be ignored. As consumers navigate the allure of these colorful cocktails, awareness and moderation remain key.