Key findings
- 1Most flavored waters contain the same synthetic sweeteners as diet soda, and the "water" label is a marketing distinction, not a processing distinction
- 2Sucralose is produced by chlorinating sugar molecules, replacing three hydroxyl groups with chlorine atoms: a process that does not exist in nature
- 3Adding fruit slices or lemon juice to plain water at home achieves the same flavoring without any synthetic additives
Why is Flavored Water Level 2 on average?
The flavored water category carries the health halo of water but is more processed than it appears. Many brands use sucralose (manufactured by chlorinating sugar molecules, replacing three hydroxyl groups with chlorine atoms) as the sweetener. Added vitamins are synthetic. Potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate serve as preservatives. When sodium benzoate combines with ascorbic acid (vitamin C, also commonly added), it can form benzene, a known carcinogen, under certain conditions. This chemistry does not occur in plain water. In our analysis, flavored water products average a Processing Score of 4.4, which is Level 2.
How 1,209 flavored water products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Flavored Water brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a flavored water label
- 1
Compare the ingredient list to plain water (1 ingredient); most flavored waters list several additives
- 2
Sucralose in flavored water is the same synthetic sweetener found in diet soda
- 3
"Enhanced water" and "fitness water" are marketing terms for sweetened, preserved beverages
- 4
Water with real fruit slices or squeeze of lemon at home needs no additives
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Frequently asked questions
Is Vitaminwater healthy?
Vitaminwater contains sugar or artificial sweeteners, synthetic vitamins, citric acid, and preservatives. The vitamins are industrially synthesized, and a sweetened bottle can contain as much sugar as a can of soda. Search Vitaminwater to see its own score.
Is flavored water the same as infused water?
No. Infused water (water with real fruit, herbs, or cucumber) has no additives. Commercial "flavored water" typically contains artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and industrial flavor compounds. The names sound similar but the products are very different.
Is Propel water ultra-processed?
Propel contains sucralose, potassium sorbate (preservative), sodium hexametaphosphate, natural flavor, and synthetic vitamins. It is closer to a diet sports drink than to water. Search Propel to see its own score.