Understanding the Different Types of Bottled Water
When you stand in the bottled water aisle, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Beyond the standard "drinking water," several types exist, each with a unique source and processing method. Understanding these differences is the first step in deciding which is best for your daily routine.
Purified Water
Often sourced from a municipal supply, purified water undergoes extensive treatment, such as reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionization, to remove chemicals, contaminants, and minerals. While this results in a very pure, clean-tasting product, the process also strips away beneficial minerals. Some brands, like Dasani and Smartwater, add a small blend of minerals and electrolytes back in for taste. It's a reliable choice for consistent purity, but it lacks the natural mineral content of other types.
Mineral Water
Mineral water is bottled directly at its source, typically an underground spring or reservoir, and contains naturally occurring minerals and trace elements. By law, no minerals can be added, so the composition is consistent from the source. The specific mineral profile gives each brand a distinctive taste and potential health benefits. Mineral waters can be naturally still or sparkling. Brands like Evian and Fiji are popular examples, offering calcium, magnesium, and other electrolytes.
Spring Water
Sourced from an underground formation that flows naturally to the surface, spring water is collected at the source or through a borehole. It retains its natural mineral profile, which can vary depending on the geology of the area. It is typically a minimally processed option, offering a fresh, clean taste. Because regulations are less strict than for mineral water, the mineral content can fluctuate. Poland Spring and Mountain Valley are common spring water brands.
Artesian Water
This type of water is collected from a well that taps a confined aquifer—a water-bearing underground layer of rock or sand. The natural pressure forces the water to the surface, where it is collected and bottled. Like spring water, its mineral composition depends on the surrounding geology. Fiji Water is a well-known example of artesian water.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Water
Beyond the type of water, several other factors should influence your daily choice. Your personal health needs, budget, and environmental values all play a role.
pH Level
The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. Pure water has a neutral pH of 7, but bottled waters can vary.
- Alkaline Water (pH > 7): Marketed for purported health benefits like neutralizing acid in the body, alkaline water's claims are largely unsubstantiated by science. It's not harmful but may not offer the benefits some brands suggest. Naturally alkaline options like Icelandic Glacial get their high pH from volcanic rock filtration, while others are processed to increase pH.
- Neutral to Slightly Acidic Water (pH < 7): Many purified waters and some spring waters fall into this category. The EPA recommends that municipal drinking water suppliers keep the pH between 6.5 and 8.5 to minimize pipe corrosion, but this is an aesthetic, not a health, recommendation. Drinking water on the acidic side is not harmful.
Mineral and Electrolyte Content
Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are essential for body function, and some bottled waters are a good source. Mineral water can have higher levels of these compounds than tap or purified water, potentially supporting bone health and blood pressure regulation. However, as with alkaline water, most of our necessary electrolytes come from a balanced diet, not just water.
Environmental Impact
The debate over plastic bottles and their environmental footprint is a major consideration. Billions of plastic bottles are used annually, contributing to landfills and ocean pollution. Sustainable alternatives include water in aluminum cans (Liquid Death), paper cartons (Boxed Water), or, more simply, reusable bottles filled with filtered tap water. The carbon footprint of shipping water from far-flung sources, like the French Alps or Fiji, also adds to the environmental cost.
Comparison of Popular Bottled Water Brands
| Brand | Water Type | Source | pH Range | TDS* | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evian | Natural Mineral | French Alps | 7.0–8.0 | 283 ppm | Naturally filtered, mineral-rich, higher TDS may impact appliance use. |
| Fiji | Artesian | Fiji Islands | ~7.7 | 131 ppm | Naturally alkaline, smooth taste, high shipping environmental footprint. |
| Smartwater | Distilled/Purified | Municipal | ~6.5 | 25 ppm | Vapor distilled with added electrolytes for taste, low mineral content. |
| Icelandic Glacial | Natural Spring | Iceland | ~8.4 | 52 ppm | Naturally alkaline from volcanic rock, carbon-neutral certified. |
| Aquafina | Purified | Municipal | ~6.5 | 1 ppm | Very low mineral content due to reverse osmosis, clean but flat taste. |
*TDS: Total Dissolved Solids (mg/L). Values are approximate and may vary.
Making the Best Daily Choice for You
Ultimately, the best bottled water is a personal decision based on a balance of taste, health goals, budget, and environmental concerns. For most people, the differences in health benefits between brands are minimal, as hydration is the primary objective. If you prioritize natural minerals and a unique taste profile, a natural mineral or spring water might be your preference. If you value consistent purity and a neutral taste, a purified brand like Aquafina or Smartwater is a good option. For eco-conscious consumers, choosing brands with sustainable packaging or opting for filtered tap water is the best path forward.
A Final Word on Hydration
While the marketing around bottled water can be compelling, remembering the true purpose of drinking water is key. The most important thing is to stay consistently hydrated throughout the day, regardless of the brand. If your budget is a concern or you are worried about plastic waste, investing in a high-quality home filtration system is a significantly cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative to buying single-use bottles.
Ultimately, the 'best' water is the one you will drink consistently to support your health. The key is to make an informed decision and choose what feels right for you. For more information on water quality and safety standards, the Environmental Working Group offers valuable insights into tap water contaminants and filtration options.
Conclusion: Finding Your Daily Hydration Balance
No single bottled water is definitively superior for every person, but by understanding the distinctions between spring, purified, mineral, and artesian options, you can make a choice that aligns with your priorities. Factors like pH and mineral content offer subtle variations, while taste, budget, and environmental impact are more significant decision-making points. For daily hydration, consistency and accessibility are paramount, whether that comes from a high-end mineral water, an eco-friendly carton, or a simple refillable bottle with filtered tap water.
