The Differences Between Propel and Gatorade
While Propel and Gatorade may seem incredibly similar given their high electrolyte content, their nutrition labels tell a different story. Yes, they both contain electrolytes, but Propel has noticeably more ingredients than Gatorade.
Nutrients
Of course, more ingredients doesn’t immediately mean a negative health impact, especially given that Propel contains a variety of vitamins, including:
- Vitamin B3
- Vitamin B5
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin E
Gatorade doesn’t have these nutrients. According to MedlinePlus, these B vitamins help create and store more energy from the food we eat — something that’s particularly essential during sporting events and when overcoming illness (two times for which electrolyte beverages are particularly popular).
Colorings
On the contrary, Gatorade contains red dye and caramel color. Some consumers prefer to avoid synthetic colors. According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, some research has linked Red 40 to hyperactivity, restlessness, and problems focusing in children, but the evidence for this is not well established.
Additionally, a review published in 2023 notes that caramel color (also added to many sodas) contains trace amounts of a chemical called 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI). In animal studies, very high doses of 4-MEI have had links to cancer development. However, PepsiCo, the producer of Gatorade, states that it reduced the amount of 4-MEI in its caramel coloring formulation when California enacted 4-MEI regulations in 2011. Regulatory bodies consider the reduced levels of 4-MEI in food to be safe.
PepsiCo has announced its plans to shift away from synthetic dyes like Red 40 toward naturally sourced dyes from vegetables like carrots, although it acknowledges this will take time to implement.