• Products

    • G Series

      • What is the G Series?

        To help athletes get the most out of their bodies, scientists from Gatorade have created the G Series – a new line of products supported by the latest science and developed in collaboration with the world’s greatest athletes to provide fuel, fluid and nutrients before, during and after activity.

      • How does the G Series work?

        The G Series provides an innovative 1-2-3 approach to meeting athletes' hydration and nutrition needs before, during and after activity.

        - It starts with Gatorade Prime 01, which provides pre-workout or pre-game fuel in a convenient and functional 4-oz. pouch.

        - Gatorade Perform 02 is Gatorade Thirst Quencher and G2 – which during activity provides fuel for working muscles, fluid for hydration and electrolytes to help replace what athletes lose in sweat.

        - Athletes know it’s critical to promote muscle recovery to get ready for their next workout or competition, and Gatorade Recover 03 is the first protein recovery beverage with the consistency of a traditional sports drink and great taste people expect from Gatorade.

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    • G Series - Gatorade Prime 01

      • What is Gatorade Prime 01?

        As the first part of the new G Series, Gatorade Prime 01 provides pre-game fuel for athletes looking for the right fuel before practice or competition, but who don’t want to feel too full. Gatorade Prime 01 comes in a convenient and functional 4 oz. pouch that provides real carbohydrate energy, not the perceived energy that comes from highly caffeinated beverages.

      • When is the best time to drink Gatorade Prime 01?

        Gatorade Prime 01 was designed for use within 15 minutes before a workout or competition.

      • How long will the benefits last after drinking Gatorade Prime 01?

        Drinking Gatorade Prime 01 within 15 minutes of practice or games will provide athletes with real carbohydrate energy, not perceived energy that comes from highly caffeinated beverages, at the start of activity. After that time, athletes should consume Gatorade Perform 02 during activity to maintain hydration and carbohydrate flow to working muscles for sustained performance.

      • Why did you put Gatorade Prime 01 in a pouch instead of a bottle?

        Gatorade Prime 01 was designed to come in a convenient and functional 4 oz. pouch that can be stored easily in a locker, desk, gym bag or purse.

      • Is it OK to drink Gatorade Prime 01 if it’s not cold?

        Yes. Gatorade Prime 01 was specially formulated to taste great either chilled or at room temperature – making it convenient for athletes who want to store Gatorade Prime 01 in a locker or bag before workouts or competition.

      • What ingredients are in Gatorade Prime 01?

        Gatorade Prime 01 contains 25 grams of carbohydrates (100 calories) to help prime the muscles, as well as 110 mg sodium and 35 mg potassium. Gatorade Prime also provides a good source (10% Daily Value) of the B vitamins – Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid (B5) and B6 -- that aid in energy metabolism as part of a daily diet.

      • Is it OK to consume more than one Gatorade Prime 01 at a time?

        Yes, although it’s not recommended to use more than one at a time, as consuming too much carbohydrate energy right before exercise may cause gastric distress.

      • Is Gatorade Prime 01 an energy drink, like the carbonated brands or “energy shots” sold at some stores?

        No, Gatorade Prime 01 should not be confused with highly caffeinated energy drinks. Gatorade Prime 01 provides real carbohydrate energy as opposed to the perceived energy that comes from highly caffeinated energy drinks, which can sometimes cause caffeine jitters and other negative effects in sensitive individuals.

      • Is there caffeine in Gatorade Prime 01? Why?

        No.  Gatorade Prime 01 provides real carbohydrate energy as opposed to the perceived energy that comes from highly caffeinated energy drinks, which can sometimes cause caffeine jitters and other negative effects in sensitive individuals.

      • Will athletes notice or feel a difference after drinking Gatorade Prime 01?

        Gatorade Prime helps make carbohydrate energy rapidly available to working muscles at the start of activity, so athletes who didn’t utilize carbs in the past might feel the difference at the beginning of training or play.

      • Will I get a “buzz” when drinking Gatorade Prime 01, like with certain highly caffeinated energy drinks?

        The effects of drinking a combination will vary by individual, but in general, Gatorade Prime 01 provides real carbohydrate energy as opposed to the perceived energy that comes from highly caffeinated energy drinks, which can sometimes cause caffeine jitters and other negative effects in sensitive individuals.

      • What do the B vitamins in Gatorade Prime 01 do?

        The three B vitamins in Gatorade Prime - Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid (B5) and B6 - aid in energy metabolism as part of a daily diet.

      • Why was Gatorade Prime 01 made with a thicker viscosity (or consistency) than that of Gatorade or G2?

        Gatorade Prime 01 contains a higher concentration of carbohydrate than Gatorade or G2, creating a slightly thicker consistency.

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    • G Series - Gatorade Perform 02 (Gatorade Thirst Quencher, G2 & Powder)

      • Gatorade

      • Why did Gatorade remove vitamins from the sublines?

        We have now sharpened our focus on fueling athletic performance during workouts and competitions and have designed the G Series based on scientific grounding and athlete needs.

      • If Gatorade Thirst Quencher is for during activity is it OK to drink it before or after it?

        Yes. Athletes can still benefit from drinking Gatorade and G2 (Perform 02) before or after activity to maintain a healthy hydration level. The G Series puts Gatorade and G2 in the “during exercise” occasion because that’s the primary occasion athletes experience a performance benefit from the fluids, electrolytes and carbohydrates in those beverages.

      • Which sports drink should I use – Gatorade or low-calorie G2?

        Individual athletes have different needs during different workout occasions. Through Gatorade Thirst Quencher and low-calorie G2, Gatorade provides options to meet the needs of more athletes during more occasions. What’s important is that during training or competition, athletes need calories or carbohydrate energy to fuel working muscles. G2 offers the same advanced hydration benefits as Gatorade, but with less than half the carbohydrate energy (and calories) and is a great option for shorter duration or lower intensity workouts or for those athletes with high sweat rates consuming high volumes of fluid (greater than a liter (34 ounces) of fluid per hour).

        • SHINE ON

          I can no longer find Shine On (AM), was it discontinued?

          We’ve consolidated all the Gatorade Thirst Quencher subline names, including Shine On (AM), into the G Series as Gatorade Perform 02. The new packaging will have the traditional subline name -- AM -- to help consumers find their favorite flavors.

        • BE TOUGH

          I can no longer find Be Tough (X-Factor), was it discontinued?

          No, we’ve consolidated all the Gatorade Thirst Quencher subline names, including Be Tough (X-Factor), into the G Series as Gatorade Perform 02. The new packaging will have the traditional subline names -- X-Factor -- to help consumers find their favorite flavors.

        • BRING IT

          I can no longer find Bring It (Fierce), was it discontinued?

          No, we’ve consolidated all the Gatorade Thirst Quencher subline names, including Bring It (Fierce), into the G Series as Gatorade Perform 02. The new packaging will have the traditional subline names -- Fierce -- to help consumers find their favorite flavors.

        • NO EXCUSES

          I can no longer find No Excuses (Rain), was it discontinued?

          No, we’ve consolidated all the Gatorade Thirst Quencher subline names, including No Excuses (Rain), into the G Series as Gatorade Perform 02. The new packaging will have the traditional subline names -- Rain -- to help consumers find their favorite flavors.

        • 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 retain fluid in the body rather than losing it through urination – all important for better hydration, but with fewer calories.

        • Why did Gatorade develop G2?

          G2 was developed to help athletes and active people stay hydrated. Research suggests that 50 percent or more of athletes and active people may arrive 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. Individual athletes have different needs during different workout occasions. Therefore, G2 was developed to offer the same advanced hydration benefits as Gatorade, but with less than half the carbohydrate energy (and calories). G2 is a great option for shorter duration or lower intensity workouts or for those athletes with high sweat rates consuming high volumes of fluid (greater than a liter (34 ounces) of fluid per hour).

        • How has G2 changed?

          We have removed the vitamins and have now sharpened our focus on fueling athletic performance during workouts and competitions and have designed the G Series based on scientific grounding and athlete needs.

        • If G2 is for during activity is it OK to drink it before or after it?

          Yes. Athletes can still benefit from drinking Gatorade and G2 (Gatorade Perform 02) before or after activity to maintain a healthy hydration level.

        • Which sports drink should I use – Gatorade or low-calorie G2?

          Individual athletes have different needs during different workout occasions. Through Gatorade Thirst Quencher and low-calorie G2, Gatorade provides options to meet the needs of more athletes during more occasions. What’s important is that during training or competition, athletes need calories or carbohydrate energy to fuel working muscles. G2 offers the same advanced hydration benefits as Gatorade, but with less than half the carbohydrate energy (and calories) and is a great option for shorter duration or lower intensity workouts or for those athletes with high sweat rates consuming high volumes of fluid (greater than a liter (34 ounces) of fluid per hour.

        • Why did G2 drop in calories from 25 to 20?

          We lowered the calories to be consistent with what athletes tell us they consider low calorie: anything 20 calories per serving or less.

        • Do you make a version of G2 with zero calories?

          No. G2 provides 20 calories per 8-oz. because athletes need some carbohydrate energy during training and competition to help fuel working muscles. A zero calorie beverage provides zero energy to working muscles and we don’t think it should be called a sports drink.

        POWDER

        Is Powder part of the G Series?

        Yes, Gatorade Thirst Quencher and G2 are both part of Gatorade Perform (02), which is intended to be consumed during activity.

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

        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. Gatorade Thirst Quencher is available in multi-serve in Lemon-Lime, Fruit Punch, Orange, Fierce Grape, Riptide Rush and Glacier Freeze flavors. Mix multi-serve Gatorade with water in a large cooler or pitcher before consuming it alone.

      • 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, team or a large group.

      • 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.

      • 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.

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    • G Series - Gatorade Recover 03

      • What is Gatorade Recover 03?

        Athletes know it’s critical to promote muscle recovery to get ready for their next workout or competition, and Gatorade Recover 03 is the first protein recovery beverage with the consistency and great taste people expect from Gatorade.

      • What are the ingredients in Gatorade Recover 03?

        A 16.9-oz. bottle of Gatorade Recover 03 contains 16 g of protein to help promote muscle recovery, as well as 14 g of carbohydrate (130 calories), 250 mg of sodium, and 95 mg of potassium to help athletes fully replace electrolytes lost during training and competition.

      • When should I use Gatorade Recover 03?

        Gatorade Recover 03 is formulated for use within 30-60 minutes AFTER activity, to help promote muscle recovery to help athletes get ready for their next workout or competition.

      • Is Gatorade Recover 03 a sports drink?

        Gatorade Recover 03 is the first protein recovery beverage with the consistency and great taste people expect from Gatorade. It contains 16 g of protein to help promote muscle recovery after exercise and help athletes get ready for their next workout or competition.

      • Is Gatorade Recover 03 a protein shake?

        No. Gatorade Recover is the first protein recovery beverage with the consistency and great taste people expect from Gatorade.

      • Why does Gatorade Recover 03 contain electrolytes and carbohydrate as well as protein?

        In addition to providing 16 g of protein, Gatorade Recover has fluid and electrolytes, which are essential after exercise to help athletes replace fluid losses.

      • What is the protein/carbohydrate ratio in Gatorade Recover 03 and how did you settle on that ratio?

        Gatorade Recover has 14 g of carbohydrate and 16 g of protein, which provides a level of protein effective to support muscle protein recovery. Gatorade Recover is designed to be consumed immediately following activity (within 30-60 minutes) for hydration and muscle recovery.

      • What type of protein is used in Gatorade Recover 03?

        Whey protein.

      • Why did you choose whey protein vs. other types of protein?

        Milk proteins such as whey and casein are high quality proteins that have been shown numerous times through research to deliver a muscle recovery benefit. We selected the specific whey protein in Gatorade Recover 03 because it is a high quality protein, capable of delivering the muscle recovery benefit and because it allowed us to deliver a refreshing, great-tasting beverage.

      • What if someone wanted to drink Gatorade Recover 03 during activity – would it hurt them?

        No, it would not hurt someone if they drank Gatorade Recover during activity vs. Gatorade Thirst Quencher. The carbohydrate level in Gatorade Thirst Quencher is optimal for providing fuel DURING activity and that’s why we recommend athletes drink Gatorade during activity.

      • If an athlete drinks two bottles of Gatorade Recover 03 following exercise, how would that impact his or her body?

        There wouldn’t be any negative impact on the athlete’s body.

      • How is Gatorade Recover 03 different from other sports drinks with protein?

        Gatorade Recover is the first protein recovery beverage with the consistency and great taste people expect from Gatorade. Certain sports drinks containing protein market themselves for use DURING the active occasion, despite the fact that research has not shown a consistent performance benefit of protein during the active occasion; however, the benefits of protein for post-exercise muscle recovery are well-established.

      • Is it true Gatorade Recover 03 is impermissible for NCAA athletes?

        Yes. Since Gatorade Recover 03 is approximately 50% of calories that are sourced from protein, the NCAA doesn’t want more than 30% of calories to be sourced from protein. It’s important to note that “impermissible” does not mean “non-compliant.” So, NCAA players can purchase Gatorade Recover at retail and choose to bring it with them to training sessions, practices or games.

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    • Focus (Gatorade Tiger™)

      • Why is Gatorade Tiger Focus being discontinued?

        To make room for 2010 innovation we discontinued certain product lines including Gatorade Tiger Focus.

      • When was the decision to discontinue Gatorade Tiger Focus made?

        This decision to make room for 2010 innovation by discontinuing certain product lines was made in mid-2009, and we informed our sales force and select media in early November.

    • 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). 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. 1. 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 here.

      • 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.

  • Usage Guidelines

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

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

    • 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 perform better than when they drank just water. The performance improvements included the ability to exercise longer before fatigue (1, 2), maintaining a faster sprint speed (3, 5) and exhibiting higher explosive power (4, 5 ) in the second half of a competition period.

      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. 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. (Full disclosure: GSSI funded study)
      2. 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. (Full disclosure: GSSI funded study)
      3. 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. 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. 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 to promote 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?

      We are still in the process of working with our rabbinical partners, the Orthodox Union and manufacturing facilities to convert our process to produce Kosher certified Gatorade Thirst Quencher and G2. We expect Kosher certified Gatorade Thirst Quencher and G2 to be available nationwide beginning summer 2010.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

    • 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.

    • 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.

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  • Science and Nutrition

    • 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 carbohydrate per 100 mL of fluid (metric units). The label will list 14 g per eight ounce serving as the equivalent. Years of laboratory research has shown that a 6% carbohydrate solution provides an appealing taste profile when exercising, is rapidly emptied from the stomach and absorbed by the intestine, and delivers performance-enhancing energy to active muscles. Sports drinks with lower or higher concentrations than 6% carbohydrate are unlikely to deliver on all these key attributes.

      When checking carbohydrate percentages, don’t be misled by the percent of carbohydrate listed on the Nutrition Facts panel. That is a statement the portion of carbohydrate contributed to a reference person’s total daily diet, not of the concentration of carbohydrate in the 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 and can affect absorption properties. For example, water has a very low osmolality (close to zero) where cranberry juice cocktail has a very high osmolality because there is 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 and can promote stomach upset during exercise.

    • 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 helps replenish the electrolytes lost in sweat and stimulates thirst so athletes will ingest an adequate amount of fluid and electrolytes to stay better well-hydrated compared to when using beverages without electrolytes, particularly sodium.¹²³

      1. 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 production of some Gatorade flavorings to keep flavor oils evenly distributed in the water-based sports drink. 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 and enable 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?

      Currently, G2 does not contain HFCS, and the remaining products from The Gatorade Company will soon be following suit. We are changing the source of carbohydrate in Gatorade Thirst Quencher in 2010 to a sucrose-dextrose blend, which still serves the important functional purpose of providing energy to fuel athletes’ working muscles during activity. What’s important to note is that from a scientific efficacy standpoint nothing will change, and our research shows the taste with the sucrose-dextrose blend is actually preferred by many athletes.

    • 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.

    • 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.

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  • 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.

    • Where can I find specific flavors of Gatorade products? Did that change?

      You should be able to find your preferred Gatorade beverages in the same place you’ve always found them. Gatorade products are sold at grocery, convenience and specialty stores across the country. However, to make room for 2010 innovations we have discontinued certain products.

    • 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.

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