Evolution Fresh: Defense Up (2009)

Looking at the label, which features an image of a pineapple, an orange, and a mango and a name and tagline that are seemingly trying to sell you on this being a preventative drink, we honestly weren’t sure what we’d find inside this bottle. Fortunately, the fruit mix, which includes the three previously listed fruits as well as apple and Echinacea juice, tastes quite good, a somewhat tropical flavor that tastes like souped-up orange juice. Thanks to the addition of pineapple and mango, the product is a little less tart than straight OJ, but much more complex in flavor, which should satisfy the consumer who is looking for something a little more exciting than straight up juice. Of course, Evolution is all about using minimal processing, and this product clearly benefits from it. The shelf life is short, but the quality is extremely close to what you’d get if you made this fresh. Back on the packaging front, we’re left feeling like some better text could be chosen to help more accurately describe the flavor. Otherwise, we’re big fans of this drink.