Is Frút flavored water Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed beverage is strictly vegan, we have to look past the marketing and scrutinize the ingredient list. Frút flavored water contains purified water, citric acid, sodium citrate, sucralose, sodium hexametaphosphate, and preservatives like potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate. On the surface, these are all synthetic or mineral-based ingredients that pose no issue for a vegan diet.

The primary concern lies with natural flavor. This term is regulated by the FDA, but it allows manufacturers to source flavorings from both plant and animal origins without specifying which. While the fruit profile suggests a plant source, natural flavors can occasionally be derived from animal byproducts or processed using animal-derived filtration agents (like isinglass or gelatin). Without direct confirmation from the manufacturer, strict vegans often flag this ingredient as a potential risk.

Nutritional Value

Frút flavored water is marketed as a zero-calorie beverage, making it a popular choice for those monitoring their caloric intake. It contains no sugar, fat, or carbohydrates, relying on the artificial sweetener sucralose to provide sweetness. This makes it a suitable option for those on keto or low-sugar diets. However, from a nutritional standpoint, it offers little more than hydration and flavor, lacking the vitamins or minerals found in whole fruit infusions.