Would you pay $19 for flavoured water cubes at Woolworths? Some call it smart, others call it silly

A tiny cube that claimed to turn ordinary water into a vitamin-infused drink had arrived at Woolworths, and shoppers could not agree on whether it was a breakthrough or a rip-off.

With a price tag of $17 to $19 for a 12-pack, Waterdrop’s so-called ‘hydration cubes’ stirred a fierce debate among Australians watching their grocery bills.

For many seniors, the issue went beyond price—it raised questions about value, health, and whether these cubes were really worth the hype.

So what exactly were people buying for nearly $20 a box?

Each cube contained natural fruit extracts, B vitamins (B1, B3, B6, and B12), vitamin C, electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, and natural sweeteners such as stevia. They dissolved in 15 to 20 fluid ounces of water, added only 5 to 8 calories per drink, and contained no sugar. Since launching in Austria in 2016, Waterdrop built a following and claimed to have saved 30 million plastic bottles while expanding into more than 3000 retail stores.

The cost question became the flashpoint. At about $1.50 per cube, Melbourne foodie Nectro Vlangos argued it was ‘cheaper than a Powerade.’ Compared to a $3.50 bottle of flavoured water, the cubes did not look so expensive.

The company defended its pricing by claiming they were ‘more cost-efficient than conventional bottled beverages.’ Yet for seniors on fixed incomes, paying nearly $20 upfront felt like a burden, no matter the long-term savings.

What health experts were saying

Health analysts at Illuminate Labs called Waterdrop ‘a healthier choice than most commercial water flavoring brands like MiO, and is certainly a healthier alternative to drinks like soda.’ They also highlighted the absence of artificial flavours and sweeteners, a selling point for many health-conscious shoppers. Still, the company’s own guidelines limited daily use—no more than 10 regular cubes, or just 3 of the high-mineral electrolyte versions. They stressed the cubes were not vitamin supplements and could not guarantee daily intake requirements.

For many, hydration made easier

For many seniors, the real benefit came down to hydration. One reviewer admitted: ‘I’m not a fan of water and this is such a simple way to entice me to drink more of exactly what my body needs.’ Adequate hydration often posed a challenge for older adults, and the cubes offered a subtle push to drink more.

The added vitamins provided only a small nutritional boost but still appealed to those wanting an edge. Their portability was another plus—customers described them as ‘perfect for on the go hydration in the airport.’

Weighing up the alternatives

Of course, alternatives were plentiful and cheaper. Cordial cost only about 20 to 30 cents a serve, though usually loaded with sugar and lacking vitamins. Sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade sat at a similar price point but carried more sugar and calories. A slice of lemon in water offered a natural, near-free option, and combining plain water with a multivitamin could deliver better value nutritionally.

The customer verdict

Customer reviews painted a mixed picture. On Amazon, Waterdrop held a 4.1-star average rating from more than 250 reviews. Blackcurrant flavours were described as having a ‘perfect balance of fruity and light’ taste, while cucumber watermelon was praised as ‘very refreshing’ and ‘mild, crisp, and refreshing.’ Critics focused on the steep price, while fans praised its convenience and ability to make water more enjoyable.

In the end, Waterdrop was not just flavoured water—it was a clean, vitamin-enhanced option priced in line with other premium drinks. For seniors, the deciding factor came down to whether the cubes genuinely helped them drink more water and justified the cost.

While hydration products like Waterdrop cubes promise added vitamins, not all supplements are created equal when it comes to long-term health.

There is ongoing debate among experts about which nutrients are safe to consume daily and which might carry hidden risks.

If you’re curious about how certain supplements could impact your wellbeing, here’s another story worth exploring.

Read more: Are Your Daily Supplements Putting You at Risk for Cancer? Find Out Which Ones Experts Warn Against!

Would you pay nearly $20 for flavoured hydration cubes, or stick with tap water and cheaper alternatives?