Electrolyte Mixes Compared: Read the Whole Label
October 14, 2026
Many popular electrolyte mixes put the sodium callout front and center. The ingredient list deserves just as much attention.
Formulas vary by brand, flavor and version. This guide compares generic ingredient patterns rather than claiming what any named competitor contains. Always read the current package.
The label table
| Ingredient pattern | PRØTOCOL Lemon Lime | Many popular electrolyte mixes |
|---|---|---|
| Added citric acid | None added | May contain |
| "Natural" flavors | None | May contain |
| Maltodextrin | None | May contain |
| Added sugar | 0 g | May contain |
| Stevia / sucralose | None | May contain |
Not every mix contains these ingredients. Read the full label of the flavor you buy.
Compare more than sodium
PRØTOCOL provides 500 mg sodium, 300 mg potassium and 100 mg magnesium per serving. Compare each product's current nutrition panel and serving size rather than relying on brand-level assumptions.
Where the flavor comes from
Added citric acid is an isolated additive typically made by fermentation and used for tartness. PRØTOCOL does not add it. Our tartness comes from organic lemon and lime juice powder. Lemon and lime naturally contain citric acid, so our claim is no added citric acid.
"Natural" flavors are a labeling category rather than an individually named fruit ingredient. PRØTOCOL uses organic lemon and lime juice powder so the source of the citrus is named.
Sweetness and the rest of the label
Many popular electrolyte mixes use different sweeteners, added sugars or carriers. Check the specific package. PRØTOCOL is lightly sweetened with organic monk fruit extract, with 0 g added sugar and no stevia, sucralose or maltodextrin.
What is in PRØTOCOL
- 500 mg sodium
- 300 mg potassium, from potassium chloride
- 100 mg magnesium, from magnesium malate
- 0 g added sugar
- Organic lemon and lime juice powder
- Organic monk fruit extract
- No added citric acid. No "natural" flavors. No maltodextrin.
- USDA Organic, certified by Oregon Tilth
Price per serving
Compare current prices using the serving count and purchase option. PRØTOCOL is $33 a 20-stick bag for Founders, or $44 one-time. Other prices and offers vary.
The bottom line
Read the full label. Compare minerals, sweetness and the source of the flavor. PRØTOCOL is built around organic citrus, monk fruit and a short ingredient list.
Sources
- PRØTOCOL ingredient statement. https://protocoldrink.com/label
- 21 CFR 101.22, labeling of flavorings. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/101.22
FAQ
How do I compare electrolyte mixes?
Read the current nutrition panel and ingredient list for the exact flavor. Compare serving size, mineral amounts, sweeteners and added ingredients.
How is PRØTOCOL different?
It is USDA Organic, sweetened with monk fruit, with 0 g added sugar, no added citric acid and no "natural" flavors. It provides 500 mg sodium, 300 mg potassium and 100 mg magnesium per serving.
Does PRØTOCOL contain citric acid?
No added citric acid. Organic lemon and lime naturally contain citric acid.