Almost every pre-workout calls itself clean now. The word has no legal or scientific definition, so it can mean almost anything. Here is a checklist you can use to judge a label yourself.
1. Every dose is disclosed
Proprietary blends list ingredients under one total, so you cannot tell how much of each you are getting. A clean label shows each ingredient and its amount. Fight Fuel lists every dose, including 283mg of caffeine, 6,000mg of L-citrulline and 1,100mg of electrolytes.
2. The caffeine dose and source are clear
You should know how much caffeine you are taking and where it comes from. Fight Fuel's 283mg comes from three sources: caffeine anhydrous (50mg), dicaffeine malate (133mg) and natural caffeine (100mg), paired with 100mg of L-theanine.
3. Doses are in the researched range
Check the amounts against what studies use. Many products include a token amount of an ingredient so it can appear on the label. Look at citrulline, beta-alanine and caffeine in particular.
4. Look at what else is in the tub
Be honest about the flavoring and sweetener system. Fight Fuel's other ingredients are citric acid, natural and artificial flavors, silicon dioxide and sucralose. If you want to avoid artificial sweeteners or flavors, a label like that is not for you, and it is better to know before you buy than after.
5. Third-party testing
Independent testing is a useful signal that the product contains what the label says. Ask any brand for its testing information.
6. No unnecessary extras
Be wary of long ingredient lists padded with tiny doses, and of claims that sound like medical treatment.
So what does clean mean?
In practice, a clean pre-workout is one where you can see everything, verify the doses and make your own decision. See the clean pre-workout collection or our guide to L-citrulline.
FAQ
Is there an official definition of clean pre-workout?
No. It is a marketing term, so check the label yourself.
Does clean mean stimulant-free?
No. A clean pre-workout can contain caffeine, as long as the amount and source are disclosed.
Does clean mean no artificial ingredients?
Not necessarily. Read the other-ingredients list for sweeteners and flavors.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
