Gatorade - No Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Or Colors

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Common questions

Is Gatorade - No Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Or Colors healthy?

Gatorade - No Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Or Colors scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This beverage contains added sugar, which contributes to its calorie content without providing nutritional benefits, and can impact metabolic health if consumed excessively.

How processed is Gatorade - No Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Or Colors?

Gatorade - No Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Or Colors is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Gatorade - No Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Or Colors' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Sugar, Modified Food Starch, Natural Flavor are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Gatorade - No Artificial Flavors, Sweeteners, Or Colors

Gatorade
70 Good

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

$26.38 · 20 fl oz · 12 pack · $0.11 / fluid ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 3
Owned by PepsiCo
Category Hydration Drinks
Summary

This beverage contains added sugar, which contributes to its calorie content without providing nutritional benefits, and can impact metabolic health if consumed excessively. The presence of 'natural flavors' adds to the processing level, as it is a non-specific ingredient that can include various additives. Despite being free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, and colors, the product is still processed, which limits its score.

Key ingredients 11

Water
Neutral

Water is a neutral ingredient that serves as the base for the beverage. It is essential for hydration but does not provide additional nutritional benefits. The quality of water can vary, but it is generally considered safe and necessary.

Benefits

Essential for hydration and maintaining bodily functions.

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Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer, providing a tangy taste. It is naturally found in citrus fruits and is generally recognized as safe. In processed foods, it helps maintain freshness and stability.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause tooth enamel erosion.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and enhances flavor.

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Sodium Citrate
Neutral

Sodium citrate is used as an acidity regulator and emulsifier in beverages. It helps maintain the pH balance and stability of the product. It is generally considered safe in moderate amounts.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension.

Benefits

Helps maintain product stability and improve texture.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and replenish electrolytes lost during exercise. While necessary for bodily functions, excessive intake can lead to health issues. It is important to balance salt intake with other dietary sources.

Risks

Excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for electrolyte balance and nerve function.

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Monopotassium Phosphate
Neutral

Monopotassium phosphate is used as a source of potassium and a buffering agent. It helps maintain electrolyte balance in sports drinks. It is generally recognized as safe when consumed in appropriate amounts.

Risks

Excessive potassium intake can lead to hyperkalemia, affecting heart function.

Benefits

Provides potassium, an essential electrolyte for muscle function.

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Purified Stevia Leaf Extract
Neutral

Stevia leaf extract is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener used to reduce sugar content. It is derived from the stevia plant and is considered safe for consumption. It provides sweetness without the calories of sugar.

Benefits

Offers a calorie-free alternative to sugar, suitable for those managing calorie intake.

See more about Purified Stevia Leaf Extract →
Vegetable Juice
Neutral

Vegetable juice is used for natural coloring in beverages. It provides a natural alternative to artificial dyes. The nutritional impact is minimal due to the small quantities used.

Benefits

Provides natural color without artificial additives.

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Glycerol Ester Of Rosin
Neutral

Glycerol ester of rosin is used as a stabilizer in beverages to maintain consistency. It is derived from natural sources and is generally recognized as safe. It does not contribute significant nutritional value.

Benefits

Helps maintain product stability and consistency.

See more about Glycerol Ester Of Rosin →
Sugar
Bad

Sugar is classified as bad due to its contribution to added sugars in the diet, which can lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes. It is a simple carbohydrate that provides quick energy but lacks nutritional value. Excessive consumption of sugar is a concern for metabolic health.

Risks

High intake of added sugars can lead to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and insulin resistance.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy but should be consumed in moderation.

See more about Sugar →
Modified Food Starch
Bad

Chemically modified starch additive.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability of the product.

See more about Modified Food Starch →
Natural Flavor
Bad

Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but can be a catch-all term for various additives. The lack of transparency about specific components can be concerning. They are generally safe but may not offer nutritional benefits.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed additives and allergens.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without artificial additives.

See more about Natural Flavor →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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