The question of whether Liquid Death is unhealthy requires a closer look at its diverse product offerings. The brand is more than just plain water in a can; it has expanded to include flavored sparkling waters, iced teas, and electrolyte drink mixes. The health implications differ significantly across these product categories, with some being very healthy and others requiring moderation. Understanding the specific ingredients in each can is key to making an informed choice for your health.
The Health Profile of Liquid Death Products
Liquid Death’s portfolio can be broadly categorized into three main types, each with its own nutritional profile and potential health considerations.
Unflavored Mountain and Sparkling Water
The original Liquid Death products are plain still and sparkling mountain water, which are sourced from the Austrian Alps or U.S. springs. From a health perspective, these are the best options. They contain no calories, no sugar, and no preservatives. They provide pure hydration and naturally occurring minerals. For most people, consuming plain or sparkling water is unequivocally a healthy habit. The primary concern for some with sparkling water is bloating from carbonation, which is a minor and temporary effect.
Flavored Sparkling Water
With flavors like 'Severed Lime' and 'Mango Chainsaw,' Liquid Death’s flavored sparkling waters are designed to offer a low-sugar alternative to soda. These contain agave nectar, citric acid, and 'natural flavors'. They are a healthier choice than traditional high-sugar sodas, but moderation is advised due to some ingredients.
- Agave Nectar: This sweetener gives the flavored waters a hint of sweetness. While it has a lower glycemic index than table sugar, it is very high in fructose. Excessive consumption of fructose can lead to health issues over time, such as fatty liver disease and insulin resistance.
- Citric Acid: Used as a preservative and flavor enhancer, citric acid can contribute to tooth enamel erosion, especially with frequent consumption.
- Natural Flavors: The 'natural flavors' on the label can be a vague term, potentially containing dozens of chemical compounds that aren't fully disclosed. Some research suggests potential toxic metabolites from certain flavoring compounds, though the health effects are debated.
Iced Teas
Liquid Death's iced teas, such as 'Rest in Peach' and 'Dead Billionaire,' contain more sugar, calories, and caffeine than the water products. These are the least healthy items in the lineup but are still better than many traditional sweetened iced teas or energy drinks. The teas also include B vitamins, but some health experts note that adding vitamins for people without a deficiency may not provide significant benefits.
The Health and Environmental Impact of Aluminum Cans
Liquid Death’s brand is built around a “Death to Plastic” campaign, promoting their infinitely recyclable aluminum cans as a sustainable alternative. However, there are nuances to this claim that are worth considering from a health and environmental perspective.
The Cans' Plastic Lining
Nearly all aluminum cans, including Liquid Death's, have an internal plastic or epoxy lining to prevent the metal from corroding or affecting the flavor of the beverage. While Liquid Death states their cans are BPA-free, concerns remain about the alternatives used in these linings, such as BPS and BPF, which some experts find equally concerning. Consumers concerned about chemical leaching might prefer glass or filtered tap water from a reusable bottle.
Sustainability vs. Consumption
While aluminum is highly recyclable, the most sustainable and cheapest option for hydration remains tap water filtered and consumed from a reusable bottle. Purchasing any packaged water, including Liquid Death, contributes to transportation emissions and resource consumption in manufacturing. For the environmentally conscious consumer, Liquid Death is a better choice than single-use plastic bottles, but it is not the most perfect eco-solution.
Comparison Table: Liquid Death Product Line
| Product Category | Calories | Sugar | Ingredients to Note | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Water | 0 | 0g | Mountain Water, Natural Minerals | Everyday hydration | Excellent health choice, no issues |
| Flavored Sparkling | Low (approx. 20) | Low (4g) | Agave Nectar, Citric Acid, Natural Flavors | Quitting soda, low-sugar treat | Moderate intake due to citric acid and agave |
| Iced Tea | Low (approx. 30) | Low (6g) | Agave Nectar, Black/Green Tea, Caffeine | A lower-sugar alternative to bottled tea | Contains sugar and caffeine, least healthy option |
| Death Dust | 35 | 8g | Sugars, Sodium, Potassium, Vitamins | Intense exercisers, electrolyte replenishment | Not needed for casual hydration, high in sodium |
Conclusion: So, is Liquid Death unhealthy for you?
The answer to whether Liquid Death is unhealthy for you is not a simple yes or no; it depends on the specific product and how frequently you consume it. The original plain mountain water and unflavored sparkling water are exceptionally healthy choices, providing pure, zero-calorie hydration. They are a superior alternative to plastic bottled water due to the environmental benefits and avoidance of BPA.
For the flavored sparkling waters, they represent a significantly healthier alternative to high-sugar sodas but should be consumed in moderation due to the agave nectar and citric acid content. The iced teas and Death Dust products contain more sugar and other ingredients, making them the least healthy, though still potentially a better option than many mainstream sugary drinks.
Ultimately, Liquid Death is best viewed as a better-for-you alternative to sugary beverages, not necessarily a healthier option than tap water. The health-conscious consumer should opt for the unflavored versions for optimal health, while enjoying the flavored drinks and teas as an occasional treat. For the most eco-friendly and affordable hydration, a reusable bottle with filtered tap water is still the best choice.
Here is an interesting resource explaining the science behind natural flavors.
