Aperol Spritz: A summer staple with a bitter aftertaste?

What’s really in the cult-favorite cocktail?

Bright orange-red, refreshingly bitter-sweet - Aperol Spritz has become a symbol of carefree summer moments. But in a recent episode of the German documentary series Besseresser, a food technologist, Sebastian Lege, casts a more critical light on the beloved aperitif. Since there is no labeling requirement for liqueurs in Germany, many ingredients remain undisclosed. The surprising find: In addition to alcohol and sugar, artificial colorants like E 110 and E 124 give the drink its signature glow. These azo dyes are derived from petroleum - and, according to ZDF, may not be entirely harmless.

Consumer advocates raise health concerns

Germany’s consumer protection agency in Berlin also views the cocktail’s colorful makeup with concern. The colorants used in Aperol can trigger pseudo-allergic reactions, particularly in individuals sensitive to aspirin or prone to allergies. Reported symptoms range from skin irritation to respiratory issues. In fact, E 124 is banned in food products in the United States for precisely this reason.

So… is Aperol still safe to drink?

The good news: According to Germany’s Federal Office of Consumer Protection, the dyes used in Aperol are legally approved for consumption - as long as intake stays within safe limits. For an adult weighing 70 kilograms, the acceptable daily amount would translate to roughly eight glasses of Aperol Spritz. Still, especially when alcohol is involved, it’s worth keeping an eye on both ingredients and quantity - or opting for less artificial alternatives altogether.

If you’d prefer to avoid artificial additives, the good news is that there are now plenty of options. Many Aperol-inspired drinks are made with natural ingredients and come without synthetic colors - offering all the summer vibes, with nothing to hide.