The Great Sweetener Shift: Liquid Death's Ingredient Evolution
Liquid Death built its cult following on a unique combination of aggressive branding and pure, simple ingredients. For years, their mountain water and flavored sparkling waters stood out for their lack of artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and other additives. However, around the beginning of 2025, the brand made a pivotal—and controversial—decision to alter the formula of some of its most popular drinks. This change primarily affects the flavored sparkling water and iced tea lines, which now include stevia leaf extract alongside agave nectar as a sweetener.
The move caught many loyal customers by surprise, as one of the brand's key selling points was its clean, straightforward ingredient list. The inclusion of stevia, a natural but often divisive sweetener, has fundamentally changed the taste and, for many consumers, the appeal of these products. This has led to a flood of complaints on social media platforms like Reddit, Facebook, and Instagram, with many declaring they will no longer purchase the altered products.
The Flavored Sparkling Water Controversy
Among the most vocal complaints were those regarding the flavored sparkling waters, which previously used only agave nectar for a light touch of sweetness. The addition of stevia, with its distinct aftertaste, was immediately noticeable to many long-time drinkers. Flavors like Severed Lime, Doctor Death, and Cherry Obituary, once praised for their refreshing and not-overly-sweet profiles, are now described by some as having a cloying or unpleasant flavor. The original tall cans of certain flavors, which many prized, were also replaced with new formulations in 12oz cans, further contributing to consumer frustration.
The Iced Tea Update
The brand's iced tea line also underwent a similar change. Before the formula update, these beverages were sweetened minimally with real sugar. The new recipe has replaced this with a blend that includes stevia, a change that has prompted disappointment from consumers who preferred the old taste. As one customer pointed out, the switch was particularly upsetting because the teas were a go-to choice precisely because they lacked the cheap-tasting artificial sweeteners found in many competitors.
Why Did Liquid Death Make This Change?
While Liquid Death has not issued a detailed public statement explaining the shift, several potential reasons can be inferred from general industry trends and consumer speculation. One possibility is a cost-saving measure, as stevia is often cheaper than agave nectar. Another factor could be an attempt to lower the overall sugar content and calorie count across their product lines to appeal to a broader, more health-conscious market. For instance, a USA Today article published in July 2025 noted that Liquid Death's new energy drink line would feature stevia and allulose for low-sugar sweetening, indicating a broader strategic move towards zero-sugar or low-sugar reformulations.
What About the Unflavored Water?
For those who prefer Liquid Death's original offerings, there is some good news. The plain Mountain Water and Unflavored Sparkling Water have not been affected by the recipe change. These products contain only water and natural carbonation, respectively, with no added sweeteners of any kind. They represent a safe haven for purists who want to avoid the stevia-laced flavors. This distinction is crucial for consumers who still want to support the brand but cannot tolerate the taste of stevia.
Comparison: Old vs. New Severed Lime
To better understand the impact of the change, here is a comparison focusing on one of the most complained-about flavors, Severed Lime.
| Feature | Original Severed Lime (Pre-2025) | New Severed Lime (2025 Onward) |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | Agave Nectar | Agave Nectar & Stevia Leaf Extract |
| Can Size | Tall can (16.9 oz) | Shorter can (12 oz) |
| Taste Profile | Crisp, light, and not overly sweet | Sweeter with a distinct aftertaste |
| Consumer Reaction | Largely positive; a fan favorite | Mixed to negative; significant backlash |
How to Identify the Correct Formula
For consumers hoping to find some of the old-stock, non-stevia versions, or just to be sure what they are buying, it is important to check the can. While some cases might be mislabeled, the cans themselves will accurately list the ingredients. Look for cans that explicitly list only 'Agave Nectar' as the sweetener, or in the case of the new formula, 'Stevia Leaf Extract' will also be included in the ingredient list. Be especially vigilant if you are purchasing flavored products, as these are the ones primarily affected by the change. Some consumers have reported finding old stock in stores, but this is becoming increasingly rare.
The Aftermath and Customer Alternatives
The recipe change has alienated a segment of Liquid Death's loyal customer base, some of whom were drawn to the brand's simple, sweetener-free options. In response, many are now seeking alternatives. Some have resorted to finding other brands of sparkling water that do not contain stevia, while others are trying to create DIY versions at home. The reaction underscores the significant impact that a seemingly minor ingredient change can have on consumer perception and loyalty.
Conclusion: Does all Liquid Death have stevia now? The Final Word
So, does all Liquid Death have stevia now? The definitive answer is no, but many of its popular flavored products do. The plain Mountain Water and Unflavored Sparkling Water are still safe for stevia-averse drinkers, retaining their original, un-sweetened formula. However, consumers of the brand's flavored sparkling waters and iced teas will find that the new recipes include stevia leaf extract, a change that has been met with significant negative feedback. The best advice for consumers is to always check the ingredient list on the individual can to ensure they are purchasing the desired product. For those who cannot tolerate the new taste, it may be time to either stick to the original water products or explore alternatives offered by other brands.
Visit the Change.org petition for public reaction regarding the recipe change
Finding Stevia-Free Liquid Death
What are the unflavored options?
For those who cannot tolerate stevia, the plain Mountain Water and Unflavored Sparkling Water are reliable choices. These products have not been altered and contain no sweeteners, ensuring the original, clean taste.
The Impact of Ingredient Changes
Consumer loyalty, especially for a brand built on a specific ingredient profile, can be fragile. The addition of a new sweetener, even a natural one like stevia, can significantly impact a product's appeal and consumer trust.
The Aftertaste Effect
For many people, stevia leaves a distinct, often bitter or lingering aftertaste that is less palatable than agave nectar or sugar. This aftertaste is a primary driver of the negative feedback surrounding the new Liquid Death formulas.
Checking Product Labels
To avoid accidentally purchasing a stevia-sweetened version, it is essential to check the ingredient label on the individual can, not just the case. Some consumers have reported mislabeled cases during the transition period.
What about the energy drinks?
The company's new energy drink line, Sparkling Energy, also uses a blend of stevia and allulose as a sweetener, signaling a broader brand strategy towards low-sugar alternatives.
