Official Ingredients: What Polar Says
Polar Seltzer is produced by Polar Beverages, a family-owned company established in 1882. The company consistently states that its flavored seltzer water contains only three ingredients: carbonated water, natural flavors, and bubbles. A key point highlighted in their communication is the exclusion of artificial sweeteners, sugar, sodium, or any other additives.
The 'natural flavors' in Polar Seltzer are described as highly concentrated flavor essences extracted from original food sources, such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs. These essences are purified and distilled, providing aroma and flavor without the nutritional components of the source, which is why the product remains calorie and sugar-free. This process is what allows the company to produce a wide range of flavors, from traditional Lime and Lemon to more complex combinations like Cranberry Lime and Mandarin, without adding any sweetness.
The '100% Natural' Lawsuits and Contradictory Claims
Despite Polar's long-standing claims, the company has faced legal challenges regarding the '100% natural' representation of its seltzer. Class-action lawsuits, filed as recently as 2025, have alleged that testing revealed the presence of synthetic ingredients in some Polar seltzer products. Specifically, one lawsuit from March 2025 mentioned radiocarbon testing that indicated 9% to 13% of the carbon in some seltzers was synthetic. The suit also cited the presence of ocimene quintoxide, identified as a synthetic component.
While a judge sided with Polar's argument that trace amounts of synthetics would not mislead a reasonable customer, the legal action introduced a layer of confusion for consumers. This contrasts with the company's clear messaging on its website and product packaging, which has traditionally assured customers that they are getting a simple, natural product. This situation highlights a broader issue in the food and beverage industry regarding the definition of 'natural flavors' and what can be contained in trace amounts within these flavorings.
Comparison: Polar Seltzer vs. Other Sparkling Waters
When considering beverages, consumers often compare Polar Seltzer to other brands to find one that best fits their dietary needs. The following table provides a comparison based on manufacturer-stated ingredients.
| Feature | Polar Seltzer | LaCroix Sparkling Water | Bubly Sparkling Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | No artificial or added sweeteners | No artificial or added sweeteners | No artificial or added sweeteners |
| Ingredients | Carbonated water, natural flavors | Carbonated water, natural flavors | Carbonated water, natural flavor |
| Sodium | No sodium added | No sodium added | No sodium added |
| Calories | Zero calories per serving | Zero calories per serving | Zero calories per serving |
| Class Action History | Faced lawsuits challenging '100% natural' claim | Faced lawsuits over '100% natural' claims | No widely reported class-action lawsuits |
Decoding 'Natural Flavors'
The term 'natural flavors' is often the source of consumer questions. While Polar Seltzer, like many brands, uses this ingredient, its composition is not always fully disclosed to the public. The FDA defines natural flavor as a substance derived from a natural source whose function is flavoring rather than nutrition. This broad definition leaves room for interpretation and explains why some independent testing might detect synthetic components. The key takeaway is that for brands like Polar, the natural flavors are not a source of sweeteners, unlike in beverages sweetened with ingredients like stevia or sucralose.
The Consumer Verdict
For most consumers seeking a refreshing, unsweetened beverage, Polar Seltzer remains a trusted option. The lawsuits, while raising valid questions about the technical definition of '100% natural,' do not contradict the company's core claim that no artificial sweeteners are deliberately added to the product. The taste profile, created by high-quality flavor essences, offers a crisp, clean alternative to sugary sodas and diet drinks that rely on artificial sweeteners for flavor. The distinction is important for individuals managing sugar intake, following a ketogenic diet, or simply trying to avoid synthetic ingredients.
Conclusion: Navigating Ingredients and Labels
To answer the question, is there artificial sweetener in Polar Seltzer?, the definitive answer based on the company's official statements and ingredient list is no. Polar Seltzer is a calorie-free beverage made from carbonated water and natural fruit flavor essences, without the addition of sugar or artificial sweeteners. While recent legal scrutiny has questioned the '100% natural' label due to trace amounts of synthetics potentially detected in some testing, these findings do not change the fact that artificial sweeteners are not a listed or intended ingredient. For the health-conscious consumer, Polar Seltzer remains a simple, clean option for staying hydrated and enjoying a flavored sparkling drink without any added sweetness. As always, reading the label is the best way to confirm the ingredients in any beverage you consume.
