Choosing electrolyte sachets is easier when you compare the label rather than the biggest number on the front of the box. Start with the amount of each mineral in one serving, then check the ingredients, sugar content and number of sachets. A convenient format is useful, but it should also make the serving information easy to understand.
This guide explains what to compare, using the AM:PM range as a worked example. You can then apply the same questions to other products.
1. Compare mineral amounts per serving
Check whether the figures refer to one sachet, a prepared drink or 100 g of powder. Those are different bases for comparison. If two products use different serving sizes, comparing their front-of-pack numbers alone can give you the wrong impression.
Look for separate amounts for sodium, potassium and magnesium. A total “electrolyte blend” figure does not tell you how much of each mineral is included. Higher numbers are not automatically the right choice for every person or every situation.
Both AM:PM electrolyte flavours state these amounts per sachet:
| Mineral | Amount per sachet |
|---|---|
| Sodium | 1,000 mg |
| Potassium | 200 mg |
| Magnesium | 60 mg |
2. Check sodium as well as sugar
“Zero sugar” describes sugar content; it does not mean a product is low in sodium. Sodium and salt also use different numbers on a label. Cambridge University Hospitals explains the conversion: multiply sodium by 2.5 to calculate its salt equivalent. The 1,000 mg of sodium in one AM:PM sachet therefore corresponds to 2.5 g of salt equivalent.
For context, the NHS advises adults to have no more than 6 g of salt a day, including salt already in food. Consider an electrolyte supplement alongside the rest of your diet, rather than treating a sugar-free label as the only factor in your decision.
3. Read the full ingredients list
Mineral amounts are only part of the formulation. Read the ingredients list for sweeteners, flavourings and any ingredients relevant to your dietary preferences. Check allergen and suitability information on the current product page and your pack, particularly if those details affect what you can use.
AM:PM Citrus Salt and Orange Salt are both zero sugar. They have the same listed mineral amounts, but you should still check each flavour’s full ingredients. Our Citrus Salt versus Orange Salt guide explains the comparison.
4. Check the preparation and pack size
AM:PM boxes contain 30 individually packed sachets. One sachet is the stated serving; mix it with water according to the directions on your pack and stir or shake well. Follow that product’s instructions rather than assuming every brand uses the same amount of water.
For everyday hydration, water remains a straightforward option. The NHS describes water as a healthy, low-cost way to stay hydrated. Buying an electrolyte supplement is a separate choice, not a requirement for everyone.
5. Compare cost per serving and purchase terms
Divide the box price by the number of stated servings to compare cost per serving. Check whether the price you are comparing is a one-time purchase or a subscription, and whether delivery changes the total. For a subscription, read the renewal amount and frequency as well as any introductory offer.
A checklist before you buy
- Are the mineral amounts stated per serving?
- Have you checked both sodium and sugar?
- Do the ingredients and suitability information meet your needs?
- Do you understand the mixing directions and servings per box?
- Are you comparing the same type of purchase?
Explore the AM:PM electrolyte sachet range to compare both flavours, or open the Citrus Salt and Orange Salt product pages for their current details.