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

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 Air Up works

Uncover the flavor alchemy that sets Air Up apart, where scent takes center stage. Air Up underscores the significance of olfactory receptors, capable of identifying an astounding 1 trillion scents. The brand elucidates:

"Retronasal smelling is the cornerstone of Air Up's innovation. It's how we infuse plain water with 'flavored' air from our pods. When you sip from our bottles, your nasal receptors interpret this 'flavored' air as taste, enhancing your beverage without altering its actual flavor. It's like a symphony of scent and taste."

With Air Up, you'll experience a transformation where scent becomes an integral part of your drink.

Give your hydration a flavorful twist with these effective instructions for Air Up. First, fill your water bottle to the capacity line and connect the mouthpiece with the straw. Carefully position the circular pod over the mouthpiece and activate it. When you take a sip, enjoy the sensory delight of scented air bubbles traveling through the straw, translating into taste.

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

Does the Air Up water bottle work?

Do Air Up water bottles truly deliver on their promise? Our thorough evaluation confirmed that they successfully infuse water with the flavors of their pods. Among the flavors we tested, the mango-passionfruit pod impressed with its juicy and delightful "flavor." However, opinions on the orange-vanilla pod were divided, with some perceiving it as somewhat artificial.

As we sifted through the data and feedback from our testers, it became clear that individual preferences and scent perception played a significant role in the experience. Scent perception is a highly personal matter, influenced by individual associations and the uniqueness of each person's sense of smell. Some testers did not foresee incorporating the Air Up water bottle into their daily routine after testing, while others regarded it as an innovative addition.

One tester stated, "Inhaling the scent didn't enhance the flavor for me," while another commented, "This is no gimmick. On days when I find plain water unappealing, the Air Up bottle makes hydration more enjoyable." Ultimately, your interaction with Air Up hinges on your sensory experience.

Air Up Compatible Food Grade Flavor Pods and Bottles: Sipperment

Additional Lab and tester notes

Join us in assessing the durability, weight, and comfort attributes of Air Up water bottles. We've conducted a detailed examination of the lightweight plastic version and compared it to the robust stainless steel counterpart in terms of weight.

Through comprehensive drop testing, we've evaluated how well both materials can withstand multiple drops onto hard concrete surfaces, highlighting their distinct qualities. These practical tests provide valuable insights into their durability.

Our leak testing procedures focused on evaluating the bottles' ability to maintain a watertight seal when placed horizontally with tightly secured lids. Explore the differences in leak resistance between the plastic and stainless steel variations.

Furthermore, we delved into the comfort aspect of the Air Up water bottle, particularly focusing 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 raises the question: does it live up to the hype? This unique bottle is designed for those who enjoy the taste of flavored water and find it easier to meet their hydration goals 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, "Individuals who struggle to stay properly hydrated may find this bottle beneficial, especially if they consider plain water dull." If you're always on the go and don't have the time to infuse your water with fresh ingredients, Air Up could be the solution you've been searching for.

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

Budget considerations also come into play, as regularly purchasing flavor pods can add to your expenses. A three-pack of pods, which flavors approximately 3.9 gallons of water, may impact your wallet. Nevertheless, with seven out of 11 testers recommending Air Up, it appears to win over 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