Is Squeezed to Death Flavored Sparkling Water Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a beverage is safe for a gluten-free diet, we have to look beyond just the main flavors. As a food scientist, I look for hidden gluten in processing aids, flavor carriers, and texturizers. Fortunately, the formula for Squeezed to Death Flavored Sparkling Water is remarkably clean regarding gluten risks.

The base of the drink is Carbonated Water, which is inherently gluten-free. The sweetness comes from Agave Nectar and Stevia Leaf Extract. Both of these are plant-derived sweeteners and pose zero risk for gluten contamination. Agave is a cactus-like plant, and Stevia is a leaf; neither shares a biological pathway with gluten grains.

For flavor, the product uses Citric Acid and Natural Flavors (Orange, Tangerine, Blood Orange). Citric acid is typically derived from fermentation of sugars (often corn or molasses) and is always gluten-free. The term "Natural Flavors" can sometimes be a gray area in food science, but when paired with citrus profiles, it almost exclusively refers to essential oils or extracts from the fruit rind. It is highly unlikely to contain gluten derivatives.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Squeezed to Death Flavored Sparkling Water positions itself as a low-calorie alternative to traditional sodas. The inclusion of Stevia Leaf Extract and Agave Nectar allows the brand to achieve a sweet taste without relying on high-fructose corn syrup or pure cane sugar, keeping the calorie count significantly lower than a standard 12-ounce soda.

Because the primary ingredients are water and flavoring agents, this beverage fits easily into most dietary limits, including Keto and Paleo diets (provided the agave nectar fits your specific carb allowance). It contains no fat and no protein, making it a "free" food in terms of macronutrients, essentially serving as a flavorful hydration vehicle without adding significant nutritional burden.