• Products

    • Gatorade™

      • What is Gatorade G?

        Gatorade G is the same scientifically formulated Gatorade Thirst Quencher that has provided advanced hydration and performance benefits to athletes and active people for more than 40 years. Gatorade Thirst Quencher has a new attitude, and we put the letter “G” front and center on our packaging, along with our iconic bolt. G represents the heart, hustle, and soul of athleticism – and is a badge of pride for anyone who sweats, no matter where they’re active.

      • What is the difference between Gatorade Thirst Quencher and Gatorade G?

        The scientifically-proven formula of Gatorade Thirst Quencher remains unchanged in Gatorade G. The difference is all about attitude. G represents the heart, hustle, and soul of athleticism – and is a badge of pride for anyone who sweats, no matter where they’re active.

      • Does this reformulation mean the original Gatorade Thirst Quencher formula is not as effective?

        No. Gatorade Thirst Quencher and our line extensions provide the same advanced hydration, and performance benefits that have built the brand and set us apart. Gatorade is the most thoroughly researched beverage in the world – nothing rehydrates, refuels or replenishes better.

    • Shine On™ (Gatorade AM®)

      • Why Shine On?

        Gatorade AM is called “Shine On” – Developed with morning flavors, the beverage helps morning athletes and exercisers “Rise to the Occasion” during their workouts. Shine On also contains an excellent source (20% Daily Value) of vitamin C. Shine On rehydrates to help active people attack their day.

      • What is the difference between Gatorade AM and Shine On?

        Compared to Gatorade AM, Shine On has the added nutrition benefit of providing an excellent source (20% Daily Value) of vitamin C to help active people attack their day. Developed with morning flavors, Shine On contains all of the hydration and performance benefits of Gatorade Thirst Quencher and Gatorade AM.

      • Is Shine On just as effective as Gatorade AM?

        Yes. Shine On has all of the hydration and performance benefits of Gatorade AM, and now includes an excellent source (20% Daily Value) of vitamin C.

    • Be Tough™ (X-Factor®)

      • Why Be Tough?

        Gatorade X-Factor is named “Be Tough” – Drinkers will enjoy the added benefit of an excellent source (20% Daily Value) of the antioxidant vitamin E to help protect the active body.

      • What is the difference between X-Factor and Be Tough?

        Compared to Gatorade X-Factor, Be Tough has the added benefit of providing an excellent source (20% Daily Value) of the antioxidant vitamin E. And Be Tough speaks to the mindset athletes and active people bring to their game or workout.

      • Is Be Tough just as effective as X-Factor?

        Yes. Be Tough has all of the hydration and performance benefits of Gatorade X-Factor and now has the added benefit of an excellent source (20% Daily Value) of the antioxidant vitamin E.

    • Bring It™ (Fierce®)

      • Why Bring It?

        Gatorade Fierce is now “Bring It.” Athletes and active people have always had to “Bring It” to their practices, competitions and workouts and now Bring It contains an excellent source (25% Daily Value) of B vitamins (B3, B5, B6) to help meet the body’s requirements so it can metabolize energy.

      • What is the difference between Fierce and Bring It?

        Compared to Gatorade Fierce, Bring It has the added nutrition benefits of providing an excellent source (25% Daily Value) of B vitamins (B3, B5, B6) to help with energy metabolism, while still providing the same great taste.

      • Is Bring It just as effective as Fierce?

        Yes. Bring It has all of the same hydration and performance benefits of Gatorade Fierce, plus an excellent source (25% Daily Value) of B vitamins (B3, B5, B6) to help with energy metabolism, while providing the same great taste.

    • No Excuses™ (Rain™)

      • Why No Excuses?

        Gatorade Rain becomes “No Excuses” – Active people know there are “No Excuses” for missing a workout or activity. The product reflects this attitude and continues to deliver a crisp, clean taste.

      • What is the difference between Rain and No Excuses?

        The biggest difference is the attitude No Excuses projects. Gatorade is not one size fits all anymore, and while some athletes and active people are looking for additional nutritional benefits, others are not. Gatorade Rain, now called No Excuses, continues to provide the same hydration and performance benefits it always has, plus the crisp, clean taste.

      • Is No Excuses just as effective as Rain?

        Yes. The formula in No Excuses is identical to Gatorade Rain and Gatorade Thirst Quencher.

    • G2®

      • How is G2 different than Gatorade Thirst Quencher?

        G2 is a low-calorie sports drink designed to help athletes and active people stay hydrated.

        G2 has the same amount of electrolytes as Gatorade Thirst Quencher to help maintain electrolyte balance, encourage athletes to drink more and help them hold on to the fluid rather than losing it through urination – all important for better hydration.

      • Why did Gatorade develop G2?

        G2 was developed to help athletes and active people stay hydrated. Research suggests that more than 50 percent of athletes and active people can show up at practices or games inadequately hydrated -- which can affect their performance. G2 is low in calories and helps keep you hydrated so you’re always ready to perform.

      • Why do people need electrolytes when they aren’t competing or working out?

        Athletes and active people sometimes do a poor job of rehydrating themselves. The electrolytes in G2, particularly sodium, are critical for proper hydration, helping maintain electrolyte balance, and helping your body hold on to the fluid it needs.

      • How has G2 changed?

        G2 is a low-calorie sports drink that delivers advanced hydration and now offers added nutrition benefits of an excellent source of three B vitamins (B3, B5, B6) and a good source of vitamins C and E to help nourish those with an active lifestyle, no matter their activity. Specifically, G2 has

        1.    - 25% Daily Value of B Vitamins (B3, B5, B6)
        2.    - 10% Daily Value of Vitamin C
        3.    - 10% Daily Value of Vitamin E

      • What is the benefit of bundling vitamins B, C, E in G2?

        Since G2 is about hydration for athletes and active people, we looked at the vitamins that many Americans are not consuming enough of such as vitamins C and E (according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005) as antioxidants that help scavage free radicals to protect the body and B vitamins that support an active lifestyle by helping metabolize energy as part of a daily diet.

      • How is G2 different from Propel?

        Propel drinkers tend to be water drinkers who often get bored with the taste of water, so the flavor in Propel helps them drink more to stay better hydrated. G2 has flavor plus electrolytes to provide advanced hydration with the added benefits of vitamins.

    • Focus (Gatorade Tiger™)

      • What is the difference between Gatorade Tiger and Gatorade Tiger Focus?

        Gatorade Tiger has been updated to call out its Focus benefit inspired by the legendary mental toughness of Tiger Woods. The product reformulation includes theanine*, which combined with carbohydrate and with being hydrated, helps maintain mental focus. Gatorade Tiger Focus also provides the added nutrition benefits of a good source (10% Daily Value) of vitamin E to help protect the body from free radicals, half the calories, and 25 percent more electrolytes compared to Gatorade Thirst Quencher.

        A new flavor, True Force™ which is a berry blend, will also be added to the Gatorade Tiger flavor lineup which already includes Red Drive™, Quiet Storm™ and Cool Fusion™.

      • Is Gatorade Tiger Focus just as effective as Gatorade Tiger?

        From a hydration standpoint, Gatorade Tiger Focus is just as effective as Gatorade Tiger was. Beyond that, there are three key differences between Gatorade Tiger Focus and Gatorade Tiger.

        • In terms of mental focus, Gatorade Tiger Focus has theanine*, which combined with carbohydrate and being hydrated, may help promote mental focus.
        • Gatorade Tiger Focus has half the carbohydrate energy of Gatorade Tiger.
        • When it comes to nutrition, Gatorade Tiger Focus has the added benefit of providing a good source (10% Daily Value) of vitamin E.

      • What is theanine*?

        Theanine* is an amino acid, which is found naturally in tea. Research shows theanine* consumption may help you stay mentally focused when you are stressed by providing a calming effect.

        Gatorade Tiger Focus helps you stay hydrated and mentally focused by combining theanine*, plus electrolytes and half the carbohydrates of Gatorade Thirst Quencher.

      • Is it safe to drink theanine*?

        Yes. Theanine* has been granted “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) status up to 250 mg/serving in the US by the FDA. Gatorade Tiger Focus has 50 mg/16.9 oz bottle.

      • How does the calorie content in Gatorade Tiger Focus compare to that of Gatorade Thirst Quencher?

        We reduced the carbohydrate content in Gatorade Tiger from a 6 percent carbohydrate solution to a 3 percent carbohydrate solution (or from 50 calories per 8-oz serving to 25 calories per 8-oz serving). This change helps meet the needs of consumers who want a lower-calorie yet higher-electrolyte formula for long-duration sports.

      • Why does Gatorade Tiger Focus have more electrolytes?

        Gatorade Tiger Focus was formulated to contain more electrolytes based on factors that affect Woods’ training and competition, including his workout intensity, his hydration strategies as well as duration and hot weather conditions he often faces on the course.

      • What is the benefit of having 25% more electrolytes?

        Both Gatorade Thirst Quencher and Gatorade Tiger Focus are excellent hydrators and better than water because of the electrolytes they have that encourage athletes to drink more and promote fluid electrolyte balance as well as help athletes hold on to the fluid they drink.

      • Who is Gatorade Tiger Focus for?

        Gatorade Tiger Focus is designed for a wide range of active occasions including working out or exercising, and in particular those long-duration activities, like golf, in which athletes and active people need advanced hydration, energy for working muscles and enhanced mental focus.

        * L-theanine (Suntheanine ®)

    • Elite Series – Endurance Formula

      • What is Gatorade Endurance Formula and how does it differ from Gatorade Thirst Quencher?

        Gatorade Endurance Formula is a specialized sports drink with a unique blend of five electrolytes – including twice the amount of sodium and three times the potassium as Gatorade Thirst Quencher – designed to meet the fluid and electrolyte needs of elite and endurance athletes.

        Gatorade Thirst Quencher contains the electrolytes sodium, chloride and potassium – the key electrolytes lost through sweat. Because elite and endurance athletes can lose a greater amount of these electrolytes during training and competition – particularly sodium, a key component of fluid balance and the hydration process – Gatorade Endurance Formula contains twice the sodium (200 mg) as a similar size serving of Gatorade Thirst Quencher. Gatorade Endurance Formula also contains three times the potassium (90 mg) as well as chloride, magnesium and calcium to more fully replace electrolytes lost during longer, more intense workouts, or multiple training sessions in one day.

        Both Gatorade Thirst Quencher and Gatorade Endurance Formula contain a 6% carbohydrate solution (14 g of carbohydrate per 8oz. serving) that helps speed fluid absorption and fuel working muscles.

      • Why did Gatorade create Gatorade Endurance Formula?

        Elite and endurance athletes often have greater sweat and electrolyte losses due to engaging in longer, more intense workouts or multiple workouts in a day. To help these athletes more fully replace the electrolytes they lose in sweat during these longer, more intense workouts, Gatorade created Gatorade Endurance Formula.

      • How do I know whether I should be drinking Gatorade Thirst Quencher or Gatorade Endurance Formula?

        Both Gatorade Thirst Quencher and Gatorade Endurance Formula are scientifically formulated to meet the hydration needs of athletes. For most active people and athletes, Gatorade Thirst Quencher is the appropriate beverage to help replace the fluid and electrolytes lost through sweat and provide energy to fuel working muscles. However, we know through extensive research that elite and endurance athletes often have greater fluid and electrolyte losses during longer and more intense workouts. In fact, within three to four hours of running a marathon or participating in a triathlon, endurance athletes can lose the amount of sodium consumed typically in an entire day (1,2). For these occasions, Gatorade Endurance Formula more fully replaces what is lost in sweat.

        Athletes who have white residue on their skin or clothes following training and competition may have high salt content in their sweat and should consider drinking Gatorade Endurance Formula during active occasions to replace excessive sodium losses.

        1. Utter AC, et al. Effect of carbohydrate ingestion on ratings of perceived exertion during a marathon. Med Sci Sports Exerc 34:1779–1784, 2002. (Full disclosure: GSSI funded study)
        2. Maughan RJ. Fluid and electrolyte loss and replacement in exercise. J Sports Sci 9:117-142, 1991.

      • What events feature Gatorade Endurance Formula?

        You can see where Gatorade Endurance Formula will be on course by clicking on the events tab within the Elite product section of Gatorade.com.

      • Where can I buy Gatorade Endurance Formula?

        Gatorade Endurance Formula is sold in some athletic specialty stores across the country or can be purchased online in the Gatorade Online Store or at amazon.com.

    • Elite Series – Gatorade Performance Series

      • What is the Gatorade Performance Series?

        The Gatorade Performance Series (GPS) is a unique set of products formulated to help athletes train and compete at their best. By meeting hydration, nutrition, recovery and energy needs, each scientifically formulated product in the Gatorade Performance Series plays a specific role in helping athletes before, during and after training and competition.

      • How can I purchase Gatorade Performance Series products?

        All products in the Gatorade Performance Series are available to purchase online in the Gatorade Online Store or at amazon.com.

      • When should I use Gatorade Carbohydrate Energy Formula?

        Carbohydrate is the primary fuel for muscles during competition and training, and depletion of body carbohydrate predisposes athletes to acute and chronic fatigue. Drink one bottle of Gatorade Carbohydrate Energy Formula 2 hours prior to a training session or competition to ensure muscle and liver glycogen stores are topped off.

      • Is the Gatorade Carbohydrate Energy Formula similar to so-called “energy drinks”?

        Even though Gatorade Carbohydrate Energy Formula has the carbohydrate sources necessary to fuel working muscles, it should not be confused with energy drinks that use caffeine. Those drinks provide a combination of perceived energy or “buzz” from caffeine along with carbohydrates. Many of these energy drinks also contain ingredients such as guarana, ginseng and taurine, or herbs that have questionable performance benefits for athletes.

        In addition to 79 g of carbohydrate, the Gatorade Carbohydrate Energy contains an array of vitamins and minerals as a blend of important co-factors for muscle carbohydrate metabolism.

      • Why doesn’t Gatorade Carbohydrate Energy Formula contain caffeine?

        Caffeine provides athletes with perceived energy but not calories for real energy. Gatorade Carbohydrate Energy Formula uses carbohydrate energy to fuel muscles during activity.

      • What is the difference between Gatorade Protein Recovery Shake and Gatorade Protein Recovery Powder?

        Both products were developed to provide athletes with protein and carbohydrate immediately following activity to facilitate muscle protein synthesis and restoration of glycogen. Athletes can base their use of the products as determined by the intensity of their workout or competition. Since the carbohydrate content of Gatorade Protein Recovery Powder in a 20 oz bottle of Gatorade Thirst Quencher is nearly twice that of the Protein Recovery Shake it’s particularly well-suited for use after prolonged and intense training sessions when carbohydrate stores have become nearly depleted.

    • Powder

      • Which Gatorade products are available in Powder?

        Gatorade Thirst Quencher, G2 and Gatorade Protein Recovery Drinks are available in powder form.

      • What is the difference between single serve and multi-serve powder?

        Single Serve powder packs provide the same hydration and performance benefits of G2 and Gatorade Thirst Quencher in a convenient, portable form. Just mix one powder pack with a 16.9 ounce bottle of water to get the benefits of G2 or Gatorade Thirst Quencher wherever you go.

        Multi-serve powder provides the same hydration and performance benefits of Gatorade Thirst Quencher in a powdered form. Mix multi-serve powders with water when you need to mix up a pitcher or cooler full of Gatorade. Multi-serve powders are a great value for hydrating your family or a large crowd.

      • What products are available in single serve?

        Gatorade Thirst Quencher is available in single serve in Lemon-Lime, Orange, and Fruit Punch flavors and G2 is available in Fruit Punch and Grape flavors.

      • What products are available in multi-serve?

        Gatorade Thirst Quencher is available in multi-serve in Lemon-Lime, Fruit Punch, Orange, Fierce Grape, Riptide Rush and Glacier Freeze flavors.

      • What is the difference between Powder and ready-to-drink liquid Gatorade and G2?

        All powder products deliver the same great hydration and performance benefits as ready to drink. Powdered products must be mixed with water before using. Mix Single Serve Powder Packs with 16.9 oz bottles of water when you need a G2 or Gatorade Thirst Quencher on the go. Mix Multi-serve powders with a pitcher or cooler full of water when you need to hydrate your family or a crowd.

      • When should I use Powder vs. ready-to-drink liquid Gatorade and G2?

        Since the advanced hydration and performance benefits of G2 and Gatorade are the same in both liquid and powdered forms, it is a matter of personal preference. Mix Single Serve Powder Packs with 16.9 oz bottles of water when you need a G2 or Gatorade Thirst Quencher on the go. Mix Multi-serve powders with a pitcher or cooler full of water when you need to hydrate your family or a crowd.

      • How do I use Gatorade and G2 Powders?

        Mix G2 or Gatorade Thirst Quencher single serve powder packs with a 16.9 oz bottle of water before consuming.

        Mix multi-serve Gatorade with water in a large cooler or pitcher before consuming.

      • Is Powder just as effective as ready-to-drink liquid Gatorade and G2?

        Yes. Both ready-to-drink Gatorade Thirst Quencher and G2, as well as Gatorade and G2 Powder deliver advanced hydration and performance benefits.

  • Usage Guidelines

    • Can I drink Gatorade even if I’m not active?

      Absolutely. Although Gatorade is formulated for when you are hot, sweaty and thirsty, it can be consumed just like any other beverage. Keep in mind that Gatorade contains only about 50% of the calories of fruit juices and regular soft drinks. The sodium content is the same as a similar size serving of skim milk and is low-sodium according the FDA guidelines.

      And for those wanting even fewer calories, G2 is a low-calorie sports drink that delivers advanced hydration and now offers added nutrition benefits of an excellent source (25% Daily Value) of three B vitamins (B3, B5, B6) and a good source (10% Daily Value) of antioxidant vitamins C and E to promote active lifestyles for everyone, no matter their sport.

    • When should I drink Gatorade?

      You can drink Gatorade anytime you are thirsty. Gatorade is not just for serious athletes, but can benefit all of us who enjoy being physically active.

    • Why is Gatorade better than water?

      Gatorade is specially formulated to give athletes what water cannot. Studies have shown that athletes who hydrate with Gatorade outperform athletes who hydrate with just water in a number of key performance measures, including the ability to exercise longer before succumbing to fatigue (1, 2), maintain a faster sprint speed in the second half of a competition period (3, 5), and exhibit higher explosive power (4, 5 ).

      The studies show what the inventors of Gatorade hypothesized over 40 years ago when faced with the task of determining why many Florida Gator players were both underperforming and succumbing to the effects of heat and heat related illnesses: when it comes to optimal field performance, water isn’t enough.

      1. Davis JM, et al. Effects of carbohydrate and chromium ingestion during intermittent high-intensity exercise to fatigue. Int J Sports Nutr 10:476–485, 2000.
      2. Davis JM, et al. Effects of branched-chain amino acids and carbohydrate on fatigue during intermittent, high-intensity running. Int J Sports Nutr 20:309–314. 1999.
      3. Dougherty KA, et al. Two percent dehydration impairs and six percent carbohydrate improves boys basketball skills. Med Sci Sports Exerc 38:1650-1658, 2006. (Full disclosure: GSSI funded study)
      4. Fritzsche RG, et al. Water and carbohydrate ingestion during prolonged exercise increase maximal neuromuscular power. J Appl Physiol 88:730–737, 2000. (Full disclosure: GSSI funded study)
      5. Winnick JJ, et al. Carbohydrate feedings during team sport exercise preserve physical and CNS function. Med Sci Sports Exerc 37:306-315, 2005. (Full disclosure: GSSI funded study)

    • Why should I refrigerate Gatorade?

      Gatorade tastes best when refrigerated. Additionally, refrigeration is recommended to avoid spoilage. Under normal conditions, Gatorade will stay fresh about 3-5 days in a refrigerator if tightly capped and refrigerated within 24 hours of opening.

    • Do I need to shake Gatorade before consuming?

      Some flavors are naturally cloudy due to high flavor oil content. Cloud can be difficult to keep in solution over time and can occasionally settle on the bottom of the bottle or rise to the top. That is the reason for the Shake Well instructions on the label.

    • Should Gatorade be diluted 50:50 with water?

      No it should not. Diluting Gatorade reduces its effectiveness because doing so waters down the taste, reduces the amount of carbohydrate that can be delivered to active muscles, and dilutes the electrolytes necessary for complete rehydration. That is why care must be taken anytime Gatorade powder is mixed. Adding too much or too little water to the mix will adversely affect Gatorade effectiveness.

    • Why is Gatorade better than other sports drinks?

      More than forty years of scientific research has gone into Gatorade to assure its formula is optimal. Gatorade is the most thoroughly researched beverage in the world – nothing rehydrates, refuels or replenishes better.

    • How is Gatorade different from energy drinks?

      Gatorade is a thirst quencher, a fluid replacement beverage for use when people are hot and thirsty. Many energy drinks contain caffeine (to deliver a perceived vs. real energy “buzz”) and about three times as much carbohydrate as Gatorade, as well as other substances like ginseng, taurine, etc. As a result, these drinks slow fluid absorption and should not be used for those occasions when rapid replacement of fluid, carbohydrates and electrolytes is important.

    • Can people with diabetes drink Gatorade?

      Yes, diabetics can actually benefit from Gatorade. Physically active diabetics who require periodic intake of carbohydrate to prevent hypoglycemia from occurring during and following activity should consume carbs during exercise. Also, people with diabetes are prone to dehydration by way of their increased urine output, and Gatorade can help in that regard as well. People with diabetes should always consult a physician before making any change in dietary intake.

    • Is Gatorade kosher?

      At the present time, Gatorade products are not kosher certified. Most Gatorade products are produced at our own production facilities; however, we occasionally use outside production plants to help maintain inventories. These companies produce other products at their facilities in addition to Gatorade. Since the plant equipment, process, clean-up and ingredients must be Kosher approved for certification, we are unable to meet those requirements at all facilities where Gatorade is produced.

  • Kids and Gatorade

    • Is Gatorade safe for infants and toddlers?

      While Gatorade should never be used as a substitute for milk, infants and toddlers can safely drink Gatorade once they are weaned off breast milk or formula and begin consuming food, fruit juices and other beverages. It is best to consult with your pediatrician prior to introducing new foods into your infant’s diet.

    • Why do some pediatricians recommend Gatorade?

      Pediatricians frequently recommend Gatorade to keep children adequately hydrated. Pediatricians know Gatorade helps put back fluids and electrolytes fast, no matter how the fluids are lost.

      One thing to keep in mind is that Gatorade is a sports drink and is not specifically formulated as an oral rehydration solution for persistent, severe diarrhea. Please consult with your pediatrician if persistent, severe diarrhea develops. Back to the top

  • Gatorade Packaging, Shelf-Life and Storage

    • How long can I keep a bottle of opened Gatorade to drink later?

      Once opened, Gatorade should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-5 days after opening.

    • What is the shelf life of an unopened Gatorade?

      For optimal flavor, the product should be consumed within 9 months or less.

    • Why aren’t tamper bands on all Gatorade packages?

      Gatorade plastic caps have bands that separate once the cap has been loosened. Tamper bands are used on caps that don’t have built in tamper evidency including 24-ounce sports cap.

    • What is the best temperature for storing Gatorade? How about powder?

      Liquid Gatorade will store best when kept at refrigerator temperature, about 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Powder should be kept in a cool (about 70 degrees Fahrenheit or less), dry place.

    • Are the plastic Gatorade bottles recyclable?

      Yes. Additionally, we’re constantly working to reduce the amount of material we use to make a bottle. In fact, a 20-oz. Gatorade Thirst Quencher bottle weighs 10 percent less than it did in 1998.

  • Science and Nutrition

    • Why are you adding vitamins to some of your products?

      The changes to our line extensions add nutrients to the science-demonstrated hydration benefits of Gatorade Thirst Quencher and G2. The fact is many consumers don’t consume enough nutrients such as Vitamins C and E (according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005). Adding vitamins to some of our offerings will help people close this nutrition gap. Vitamins and a balanced diet are keys to an active lifestyle, which is important for athletes and active people who want to perform at their best.

    • What is the impact of vitamins on athletic performance for active people?

      Vitamins and a balanced diet are an important part of maintaining an active lifestyle, which is important for athletes who want to perform at their best. For those who don’t want additional nutrients, we have original Gatorade Thirst Quencher and No Excuses, formerly know as Gatorade Rain. We’re not one size fits all anymore, and we’ve changed our game to meet the desires of a broader range of athletes and active people.

    • What does it mean that Gatorade is a 6% carbohydrate beverage?
      How is carbohydrate percentage calculated?

      Six percent is the concentration and means six grams of carbohydrates per 100 mL of fluid. Years of laboratory research has shown that a 6% carbohydrate solution provides the best taste profile when exercising, is rapidly emptied from the stomach and absorbed by the intestine, and delivers performance-enhancing energy to active muscles better than lower or higher concentrations of carbohydrate.

      When checking carbohydrate percentages, don’t be misled by the percent of carbohydrate listed on the Nutrition Facts panel. That is a statement of carbohydrate content versus a person’s total daily diet, instead of the actual amount of carbohydrate content in an 8-oz. serving of a beverage.

      You can calculate the carbohydrate percentage of any beverage simply by knowing the total carbohydrate content (identified on the Nutrition Facts panel of the label) and the serving size in milliliters (also listed on the label). Gatorade contains 14 grams of carbohydrate in every 240 ml (8-oz) serving. So, 14/240 x 100 = 5.8% carbohydrate (we round up to 6% just to make things easy to remember.)

    • What is the osmolality of Gatorade?

      In scientific terms, osmolality is a measure of the number of particles in a solution. For example, water has a very low osmolality (close to zero) where cranberry juice cocktail has a very high osmolality because there are a lot of sugar molecules dissolved in it.

      The osmolality of Gatorade is slightly higher than that of our blood. That and the types of carbohydrate and electrolytes help assure rapid absorption. If beverage osmolality becomes too high (e.g. soft drinks and fruit juices), the rate of fluid absorption is slowed.

    • Is there any scientific basis for the way Gatorade tastes?

      Yes, Gatorade is formulated to taste best during physical activity because it contains electrolytes and the right flavor profile to help drive the thirst mechanism. The right flavor profile is achieved by creating flavors that are light and not overpowering so that they can be consumed in large quantities with minimum sensory overload during physical activity. Gatorade also has carefully avoided the use of artificial preservatives that can cause a throat burning sensation during exercise.

    • What are the electrolytes in Gatorade?

      In Gatorade, the key electrolytes are the minerals sodium, potassium and chloride. When athletes sweat, they lose electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride that are essential to hydration and muscle function. Unlike water and other beverages that are not scientifically formulated, Gatorade is lab-tested to ensure it replenishes the electrolytes lost in sweat while maintaining thirst so athletes will adequately ingest enough fluid and electrolytes to stay well-hydrated.¹²³

      1. Maughan RJ. Fluid and electrolyte loss and replacement in exercise. J Sports Sci 9:117-142, 1991.
      2. 2. Passe D, et al. Impact of beverage acceptability on fluid intake during exercise. Appetite 35:219-229, 2000. (Full disclosure: GSSI study)
      3. 3. Wilk B and O Bar-Or. Effect of drink flavor and NaCl on voluntary drinking and hydration in boys exercising in the heat. J Appl Physiol 80:1112–1117, 1996. (Full disclosure: GSSI funded study)

    • What is brominated vegetable oil (BVO)? What is its purpose? Does it add fat calories to the product?

      BVO is used in the manufacturing of some Gatorade flavorings to provide stability to the flavor emulsion. It is used in very low levels and does not contribute any fat calories.

    • Why do you use artificial color? Can you make Gatorade without artificial colors?

      The colors of Gatorade not only look good but also help in flavor perception enabling you to tell different flavors apart. All colors and ingredients in Gatorade qualify for human consumption according to the requirements of the FDA, added at the lowest possible level to achieve the desired color.

    • Does Gatorade include High Fructose Corn Syrup? Why or Why not?

      The High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is in Gatorade as a source of two of the three carbohydrates. HFCS contributes glucose and fructose. Sucrose is the third sugar. All are present in specific amounts that research has shown assures rapid fluid absorption, optimal energy delivery and great taste. High Fructose Corn Syrup and sucrose provide the ideal level of sweetness, fast absorption, and carbohydrate for energy burning that Gatorade has always delivered.

      This formula provides the most efficacious product for the cost to the consumer. We could use other sources of the same sugars – glucose and fructose – but it would cost dramatically more and have no additional benefit. Scientific experts believe there is no scientific proof to show that there is any difference between the effects on the body of HFCS and sucrose. Research shows that your body digests and uses carbohydrates from high fructose corn syrup the same way it digests other sweeteners like table sugar.1
      1 American Medical Association. Report 3 of the Council on Science and Public Health, 2008.

    • Does Gatorade contain caffeine? Why not?

      Currently, caffeine has no place in Gatorade products. There is no convincing scientific data that shows caffeine can consistently and safely enhance the performance of athletes in a wide variety of athletic situations. Caffeine is a stimulant and many sports health professionals have concerns about athletes over-consuming caffeine.

    • Does Gatorade contain Gluten?

      No, none of our Gatorade products contain wheat ingredients, which would be the source of wheat Gluten.

    • What is sucralose? Is it sucrose?

      Sucrose is a type of sugar. Sucralose is a no-calorie artificial sweetener. Like many no- and low-calorie sweeteners, sucralose contains a very small amount of common food ingredients, e.g., dextrose and/or maltodextrin, for volume. Because the amount of these ingredients is so small, it still has an insignificant calorie value per serving and meets FDA's standards for "no calorie" sweeteners.

      The safety of sucralose is well documented in more than 100 scientific studies conducted over a 20-year period. In addition, sucralose has been reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as well as by international health authorities such as the World Health Organization, and found to be safe for use by all consumers, including children, pregnant women and people with diabetes.

    • Why doesn’t Gatorade contain fruit juice?

      Fruit juice contains fructose in concentrations that slow gastric emptying and may result in intestinal upset when athletes drink it during exercise. Fruit juice also varies considerably in composition from crop to crop. It becomes a challenging source of carbohydrate and other ingredients for product stability.

  • Other

    • What is G?

      In a Gatorade context, G represents the heart, hustle, and soul of athleticism – and will become a badge of pride for anyone who sweats, no matter where they’re active.

    • Where does the Gatorade name come from?

      The Gatorade name comes from The University of Florida football team, the “Gators”. Gatorade Thirst Quencher was invented at The University of Florida to assist their athletes in combating the dehydration that limited their performance-hence “Gator…ade.”

    • What are the most popular Gatorade Flavors?

      The most popular flavors of Gatorade continue to be Lemon Lime and Fruit Punch.

    • I can no longer find a specific flavor. What happened?

      Periodically, we discontinue certain flavors in order to constantly bring new products to market for our consumers. The following flavors are no longer available: Gatorade Strawberry Kiwi.

    • How are new Gatorade flavors determined?

      New flavors are arrived at through a process that involves coming up with new flavor ideas, development and screening of prototypes, making revisions as necessary, and finally testing with athletes in an exercise setting. A new product launch can take six months to several years depending on the complexity of the beverage.

    • Where is the date on the Gatorade bottle? What does it stand for?

      The date on the first line of the neck of the bottle indicates when Gatorade is at its optimal freshness and flavor. Gatorade can be safely consumed past that date if the seal is intact and the product has been stored in a clean, dry, cool environment.

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