Honey Lemon Cough Drops

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Honey Lemon Cough Drops healthy?

Honey Lemon Cough Drops scores 78/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains beneficial ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus oil, and a blend of herbal extracts known for their soothing and immune-supporting properties.

How processed is Honey Lemon Cough Drops?

Honey Lemon Cough Drops is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Honey Lemon Cough Drops' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Beta-Carotene, Eucalyptus Oil, Herbal Extract count in its favor; Glucose Syrup, Natural Flavor, Sugar are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

More from Trader Joe's

See more

Honey Lemon Cough Drops

Trader Joe's
78 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

Near you

Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 3
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Immunity
Summary

This product contains beneficial ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus oil, and a blend of herbal extracts known for their soothing and immune-supporting properties. However, the presence of natural flavor, which lacks transparency, and the use of glucose syrup contribute to a moderate level of processing. The overall formulation is relatively clean, but the inclusion of less transparent ingredients prevents it from achieving a higher score.

Key ingredients 12

Beta-Carotene
Good

Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and acts as an antioxidant. It is often used as a natural colorant and provides health benefits by supporting vision and immune function. Its role as a vitamin A source and antioxidant makes it a valuable addition.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to carotenemia, a harmless condition causing yellowing of the skin.

Benefits

Supports eye health and immune function due to its role as a vitamin A precursor.

See more about Beta-Carotene →
Eucalyptus Oil
Good

Eucalyptus oil is known for its antimicrobial and decongestant properties. It is often used in cough drops to help clear nasal passages and soothe the throat. Its natural origin and therapeutic properties make it a beneficial ingredient.

Risks

Can be toxic if ingested in large amounts; should be used in moderation.

Benefits

Helps relieve congestion and has antimicrobial properties.

See more about Eucalyptus Oil →
Herbal Extract
Good

The herbal extract includes elderflower, horehound, hyssop, lemon balm, linden flowers, mallow, peppermint, sage, and thyme, which are known for their soothing and immune-supporting properties. These herbs are traditionally used in remedies for respiratory health. The combination of these herbs provides a natural approach to symptom relief.

Benefits

Supports respiratory health and provides soothing effects.

Honey
Good

Honey is a natural sweetener with antimicrobial properties and is often used to soothe sore throats. It contains antioxidants and can help suppress coughs. Its natural origin and health benefits make it a valuable ingredient.

Risks

Should not be given to infants under one year due to the risk of botulism.

Benefits

Provides soothing effects for sore throats and has antimicrobial properties.

See more about Honey →
Menthol
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Provides a cooling sensation that can help soothe sore throats and reduce coughing.

See more about Menthol →
Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is commonly used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in food products. It is naturally found in citrus fruits and is generally recognized as safe. While it enhances flavor, it does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Risks

May cause tooth enamel erosion if consumed in large quantities over time.

See more about Citric Acid →
Lemon Juice Concentrate
Neutral

Lemon juice concentrate is used for its flavor and vitamin C content. While it adds a refreshing taste, the concentration process may reduce some of its nutritional value. It primarily serves as a flavor enhancer in this product.

Benefits

Provides a refreshing flavor and some vitamin C content.

See more about Lemon Juice Concentrate →
Natural Lime Flavor
Neutral

Natural lime flavor is used to enhance the taste of the product. It is derived from lime and provides a citrusy flavor without significant nutritional benefits. Its role is primarily to improve palatability.

Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients. It is essential for the formulation but does not provide nutritional benefits. Its role is primarily functional in maintaining the product's consistency.

See more about Water →
Glucose Syrup
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

Excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes.

See more about Glucose Syrup →
Natural Flavor
Bad

Natural flavor is a catch-all term that can include a variety of substances derived from natural sources. The lack of transparency about its specific components raises concerns about potential additives. Its inclusion is often criticized for not providing clear information about its composition.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed additives and allergens.

See more about Natural Flavor →
Sugar
Bad

Refined added sugar.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and dental issues.

See more about Sugar →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Immunity