Air Up's flavor pods are a reflection of their commitment to natural ingredients. These pods are meticulously crafted using natural flavors extracted from plants, fruits, and spices, while specific intellectual property details are kept confidential.

With 15 flavors available on their website, ranging from classic apple to intriguing basil-lemon to indulgent orange-vanilla, Air Up offers a diverse range of options. You can explore these scents through variety packs or stock up on your preferred flavors 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 emerging as a unanimous favorite. Testers provided insights into scent strength and their flavor preferences.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

What is Air Up?

Air Up was established by Lena Jüngst and Tim Jäger, a dynamic pair of German university students who, during their academic pursuits, found inspiration in Neurogastronomy: How the Brain Shapes Flavor and Why It's Significant, a book authored by the eminent neuroscientist Gordon M. Shepherd. This thought-provoking book challenges established beliefs by highlighting the paramount role of the sense of smell in the perception of flavor. Motivated by Shepherd's revelations, Jüngst and Jäger embarked on a journey to bring their pioneering Air Up prototype to fruition, guided by the principle of "Blending Neuroscience with Innovative Design." Their overarching objective? To contribute to global well-being by addressing the issue of inadequate hydration, often associated with poor nutrition. This revolutionary water bottle is designed to accommodate 15 distinct Air Up flavor pods and is available in two variations—plastic and stainless steel—both of which can be customized with a variety of vibrant accessories.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

How Air Up works

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

How we tested Air Up

At the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, water bottles are a frequent subject of examination. We rigorously evaluate them for performance, durability, and user-friendliness. However, when the Air Up water bottle came onto our radar, we knew it was time for a unique testing approach.

Our dedicated 11-person testing panel, consisting of consumers, dietitians, kitchen equipment experts, engineers, and chemists, embarked on a comprehensive journey. This endeavor resulted in over a hundred data points and invaluable feedback, encompassing taste perceptions, comfort during usage, and shifts in hydration habits.

In our Lab, we didn't skimp on testing. We conducted drop and leak tests on both plastic and stainless steel Air Up models. Our assessment extended to nine distinct flavor pods, which we

meticulously rated for flavor quality, longevity, and strength. We also examined the water bottle's ease of use, considering aspects such as filling, carrying, drinking, and cleaning.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

How long do Air Up pods last?

Air Up claims that each of its pods is designed to enhance approximately 1.3 gallons of water with enticing scents. Additionally, the company advises consumers to take note of the "best before" date on each pod, as the scent's vibrancy may diminish over time, delivering the most satisfying experience when the pod is freshly opened. Storing the pods in their original packaging is essential, as they cannot be cleaned and should only be unsealed just before attaching them to your water bottle.

In our investigation, we found that if the pods remained affixed to the water bottle for an extended period without being used, the scent gradually dissipated, resulting in 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 a more extended lifespan.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

Does the Air Up water bottle work?

Do Air Up water bottles truly work as advertised? Our comprehensive testing process revealed that they do indeed succeed in infusing water with the flavors of their pods. Among the flavors we examined, the mango-passionfruit pod left a lasting impression with its juicy and delightful "flavor." However, opinions on the orange-vanilla pod were divided, with some finding it somewhat artificial.

As we analyzed the data and the feedback from our testers, it became clear that personal preferences and scent perception played a significant role in shaping the experience. Scent perception is a deeply personal matter, influenced by individual associations and the distinct nature of each person's sense of smell. Some testers did not foresee integrating the Air Up water bottle into their daily routine after testing, while others considered it an innovative enhancement.

One tester shared, "Inhaling the scent didn't heighten the flavor for me," while another noted, "This is no mere gimmick. On days when plain water feels uninspiring, the Air Up bottle elevates the hydration experience." Ultimately, your journey with Air Up is intimately connected to your sensory perceptions.

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?

Is the Air Up water bottle worth your consideration? This unique bottle is tailored for those who enjoy the taste of flavored water and find it more enjoyable to stay hydrated with a burst of flavor.

According to Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.S.O., C.D.N., NASM-CPT, the Nutrition Lab Director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, "People who struggle with staying hydrated might appreciate this bottle, especially those who find plain water unappealing." If you have a busy schedule and find it challenging to infuse your water with fresh ingredients, Air Up could be a game-changer.

However, it's crucial to keep in mind that the Air Up water bottle may not suit everyone, particularly those who consume significant quantities of water and need a larger bottle capacity (the plastic version holds 22 ounces, while the stainless steel version holds 28 ounces). As one tester mentioned, "I wish it came in different sizes to reduce the need for frequent refills."

Additionally, consider your budget, as purchasing flavor pods regularly can impact your finances. A three-pack of pods, which flavors approximately 3.9 gallons of water, may be an ongoing expense. Nevertheless, with seven out of 11 testers giving Air Up their recommendation, it appears to have garnered widespread approval.

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