If you’ve ever glanced at an ingredient list and seen “natural flavors” and thought that sounds healthy, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, this term is not regulated by the FDA and can include “multiple lab-made chemicals —including highly processed (and gut disruptive) additives like maltodextrin.” (ClassAction.org)
That’s why Hawaiian Hydration uses real fruit and whole-food ingredients in our electrolytes. Let’s break down why real fruit is better for your body—and why ingredient transparency is important.
What “Natural Flavors” Really Means
You’ll see “natural flavors” on everything from electrolyte powders to snack bars and beverages. Under FDA definitions, “natural flavor” can include a blend of many compounds designed to simulate the taste of fruit or another flavor. It is "natural" because it is sourced from corn starch (often GMO), whereas "artificial flavor" is derived from petrochemical oils.
Natural flavors have been directly linked to intestinal inflammation and gut dysbiosis. (See LMNT lawsuit below).
The Hidden Ingredient Behind “Natural Flavors”
In 2025, multiple class action lawsuits were filed against Drink LMNT, Inc., the makers of a popular electrolyte powder. Lawsuits allege that LMNT marketed its mixes as “All Natural,” “No Artificial Ingredients,” and “Paleo-Keto Friendly,” while hiding a significant amount of a highly processed additive called maltodextrin under the umbrella term natural flavors. (ClassAction.org)
Here’s the issue:
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Each flavored serving of LMNT’s drink mix allegedly contains between 300–450 milligrams of maltodextrin, which plaintiffs say is more than the amount of potassium and magnesium combined
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Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate powder often derived from corn or other starches; in many contexts it functions as a filler or flavor carrier rather than a beneficial nutrient. NutraIngredients.com
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According to the lawsuits, consumers believed they were buying a minimally processed, diet-friendly product—but this maltodextrin was not listed on packaging and instead was hidden behind “natural flavors.” ClassAction.org
These legal actions haven’t yet been resolved, but they highlight a bigger truth in the supplement world: ambiguous labeling can mislead people about what’s actually in their electrolytes.
Why Real Fruit Ingredients Matter More
At Hawaiian Hydration, we believe in the power of real fruit powders and whole-food ingredients because:
1. Real Nutrition Over Processed Fillers
Fruit has actual vitamins, flavors, and phytonutrients—not just taste mimics created in a lab.
2. No Mystery Ingredients
When you see “Organic Passionfruit Juice Powder” or “Organic Coconut Water Powder” on the label, you know what you’re getting—unlike “natural flavors,” which can be a catch-all for dozens of processed compounds.
3. Cleaner Hydration With Transparency
Your body deserves honest ingredients, especially when you’re relying on electrolytes for hydration, recovery, or travel wellness. Real fruit adds flavor and nutrients without the lab-made chemicals.
How This Matters for Your Health
Whether you’re running a marathon, traveling across time zones, or just trying to rehydrate after a long day in the sun, the quality of your ingredients matters. When brands use vague terms like “natural flavors,” the result can be:
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Confusion about what you’re actually consuming
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Ingredients that don’t align with your dietary goals
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Pay more for products that don’t deliver what their marketing promises
The Takeaway: Real Fruit > Natural Flavors
There’s a reason we formulate Hawaiian Hydration around real fruit and fully disclosed ingredients—because you deserve hydration that’s effective and honest. While terms like “natural flavors” sound appealing on a label, they can mask what’s actually in your drink. By choosing products with real fruit and clear labels, you’re making a healthier and more informed choice.
If you want hydration that tastes great without guessing what’s in every scoop, stick with real fruit ingredients you can trust.
