Natural flavors in sparkling water are flavoring ingredients derived from natural sources such as fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, barks, roots, or other plant and animal materials. These flavors are extracted using methods like pressing, distillation, and steaming to capture the essence of the source material without adding calories or sugars

. They enhance the taste of plain carbonated water by providing a burst of flavor, making sparkling water more enjoyable and a healthier alternative to sugary sodas. Because flavor ingredients are potent, only small amounts are needed, so they do not affect the nutritional profile of the beverage

. Common natural flavor sources include citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges), berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries), tropical fruits (pineapple, mango), melons (watermelon, cantaloupe), and fresh herbs (mint, basil)

. The U.S. FDA defines natural flavors as substances derived from natural sources such as essential oils, extracts, or distillates obtained from these plants or animals. However, the exact composition of natural flavors can be complex, sometimes involving multiple chemicals, and companies are not always required to disclose all processing aids or sub-ingredients used in creating these flavors

. In summary, natural flavors in sparkling water are concentrated flavor essences extracted from real natural sources that provide the characteristic taste without added sugars or artificial ingredients, making sparkling water a flavorful yet calorie-free beverage option