Experience the unique connection between scent and taste with Air Up's groundbreaking approach. Air Up highlights the role of olfactory receptors, capable of identifying an impressive 1 trillion scents. The brand explains:

"Retronasal smelling is the bridge that makes Air Up exceptional. It's how we introduce 'flavored' air from our pods into plain water. Our bottles ensure that every sip is a sensory journey, as your nasal receptors interpret 'flavored' air as taste. Surprisingly, your water remains true to its original flavor, while your palate explores new dimensions through your sense of smell."

With Air Up, you'll discover the remarkable synergy between scent and taste.

Experience a symphony of scent and taste with Air Up following these instructions. Start by filling your water bottle to the capacity line and connecting the mouthpiece with the straw. Position the circular pod over the mouthpiece, verifying activation. When you sip, enjoy the harmonious journey of scented air bubbles through the straw, transforming into taste sensations.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

What is Air Up?

Air Up was established by Lena Jüngst and Tim Jäger, two German university students who, during their academic journey, delved into the pages of Neurogastronomy: How the Brain Creates Flavor and Why It Matters, a book by neuroscientist Gordon M. Shepherd. This book challenges conventional wisdom by asserting that the sense of smell plays a more significant role in flavor perception than previously believed. This revelation ignited a spark of innovation in Jüngst and Jäger, leading to the creation of their pioneering Air Up prototype. Their mission? To merge neuroscience with design and improve global health by addressing poor nutrition, specifically inadequate hydration. This innovative water bottle accommodates 15 Air Up flavor pods and is available in both plastic and stainless steel versions, allowing for customization with vibrant accessories.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

How we tested Air Up

In the world of water bottles, the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab is renowned for its comprehensive evaluations. Over time, we've scrutinized numerous bottles, weighing their performance, durability, and user-friendliness. However, when the Air Up entered our radar, we knew we had something unique to explore.

Our formidable 11-person testing panel, comprised of consumers, dietitians, kitchen equipment experts, engineers, and chemists, embarked on a mission to gather extensive data. This endeavor yielded over a hundred data points and invaluable feedback. From assessing taste perceptions to gauging comfort during usage and monitoring shifts in hydration habits, we left no stone unturned.

Within our Lab, we conducted meticulous drop and leak tests on both plastic and stainless steel Air Up models. Our scrutiny extended to nine distinct flavor pods, meticulously rating them based on flavor quality, durability, and intensity. We also evaluated the water bottle's ease of use, considering factors such as filling, carrying, drinking, and cleaning.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

What is in the flavor pods?

Air Up's flavor pods exemplify their dedication to natural ingredients. These pods are carefully crafted with natural flavors extracted from plants, fruits, and spices, although the specifics of their intellectual property are closely guarded.

The brand's website boasts a selection of 15 flavors, ranging from classic apple to innovative basil-lemon and indulgent orange-vanilla. You can explore these scents through variety packs or stock up on your favorites with three-packs. Additionally, each water bottle starter set includes an assortment of flavor pods.

In our testing, personal preferences played a significant role, with no single scent receiving unanimous praise. Testers provided insights into scent strength and their personal flavor preferences.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

How long do Air Up pods last?

According to Air Up, each of its pods is engineered to enrich approximately 1.3 gallons of water with captivating scents. The company also highlights the importance of checking the "best before" date on each pod, as the scent's potency may decrease over time, providing the most satisfying experience when the pod is freshly opened. It is crucial to store the pods in their original packaging, as they are not washable and should only be unsealed just before attaching them to your water bottle.

Our observations revealed that if the pods remained attached to the water bottle for an extended duration without use, the fragrance gradually dissipated, leading to a less pronounced "flavor" for the water. Our experts, considering the per-pod cost and the current online-only purchasing option, expressed a desire for pods with an extended lifespan.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

Does the Air Up water bottle work?

Do Air Up water bottles really work? Our rigorous testing revealed that they do indeed deliver on their promise, infusing water with the flavors of their pods. The mango-passionfruit pod, in particular, stood out with its juicy and satisfying "flavor." However, opinions on the orange-vanilla pod varied, with some finding it a bit artificial.

As we analyzed the data and feedback from our testers, it became evident that personal preferences and scent perception played a pivotal role. Scent experiences can be highly individual, influenced by personal associations and the uniqueness of each person's sense of smell. Some testers didn't foresee incorporating the Air Up water bottle into their daily routine after testing, while others found it to be an innovative addition.

One tester shared, "Inhaling the scent didn't enhance the flavor for me," while another noted, "This is far from a gimmick. On days when plain water doesn't appeal to me, the Air Up bottle makes hydration more enjoyable." Ultimately, your interaction with Air Up is shaped by your sensory perception.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

Additional Lab and tester notes

In our detailed examination of the Air Up water bottle, we've scrutinized its durability, weight, and comfort characteristics. We've explored the lightweight plastic version and compared it to the substantial stainless steel model in terms of weight.

Through rigorous drop testing, we've evaluated how well both materials can withstand multiple falls onto hard concrete surfaces, highlighting their unique qualities. These real-world tests provide crucial insights into their overall durability.

Our leak testing procedures focused on assessing the bottles' ability to remain leak-free when placed horizontally with tightly sealed lids. Discover the variations in leak resistance between the plastic and stainless steel variants.

Additionally, we explored the comfort aspect of the Air Up water bottle, with a focus on the mouthpiece and ease of sipping. Cleaning and maintenance considerations, including the advantages of the stainless steel model, are also discussed.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

So, is the Air Up water bottle worth it?

The Air Up water bottle poses a question: is it a worthwhile investment? This distinctive bottle caters to those who savor the taste of flavored water and find it more enticing to meet their hydration goals with a dash of flavor.

Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.S.O., C.D.N., NASM-CPT, the Nutrition Lab Director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, believes, "Individuals who struggle to stay adequately hydrated would appreciate this bottle, especially those who deem plain water uninspiring." If you lead a busy life and lack the time to infuse your water with fresh ingredients, Air Up could be the solution you've been seeking.

However, it's important to note that the Air Up water bottle may not suit everyone, particularly those who consume large quantities of water and require a more capacious bottle (the plastic version holds 22 ounces, while the stainless steel version holds 28 ounces). As one tester remarked, "I wish it were available in different sizes to reduce the need for frequent refills."

Consider your budget as well, as regularly purchasing flavor pods can add up in cost. A three-pack of pods, which flavors approximately 3.9 gallons of water, may impact your finances. Despite these considerations, seven out of 11 testers recommended Air Up, indicating its appeal to the majority.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

ref: Air Up Water Bottle Review: We Tested the Water Bottle That "Flavors" Water Via Scent