Understanding Aquafina's Purification Process
Aquafina is sourced from public water systems and is then subjected to a rigorous, seven-step purification process known as HydRO-7™. This system is the key to why the water contains virtually no salt. The technology behind this process ensures a consistent taste and purity by removing minerals, salts, and other dissolved solids that can affect flavor.
The Role of Reverse Osmosis
At the core of the HydRO-7™ system is reverse osmosis (RO). This advanced filtration method uses semi-permeable membranes with tiny pore sizes to separate water molecules from unwanted substances. The process effectively removes dissolved solids such as carbonates, bicarbonates, chlorides, sulfates, phosphates, nitrates, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. In fact, Aquafina’s average Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) reading is around 4 parts per million (ppm), which is significantly lower than the 10 ppm standard for purified water set by the FDA.
Is All Salt Removed?
While Aquafina's process removes almost all dissolved solids, trace amounts can still remain. The company states that its purification removes "all but a trace amount of any dissolved solids or ions". So, while the water is not completely devoid of every molecule, it is functionally sodium-free and tasteless. This is why the nutrition label consistently lists 0 mg of sodium.
Aquafina vs. Other Bottled Waters
It's important to recognize that not all bottled waters are created equal. The mineral content, and thus the potential for salt, varies widely depending on the water source and treatment method. Here's a comparison:
| Comparison of Bottled Water Types | Feature | Aquafina (Purified Water) | Spring Water | Mineral Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Public water sources | An underground formation where water flows naturally | A protected underground water source | |
| Treatment | Multi-step purification (HydRO-7™) including reverse osmosis | Filtered to remove bacteria and contaminants, but retains natural minerals | Treated to remove bacteria but retains a consistent level of naturally occurring minerals | |
| Salt/Sodium | Virtually none, due to reverse osmosis | Can contain varying levels of sodium, depending on the source | Contains varying levels of minerals, including sodium, from its natural source | |
| Taste | "Pure" and tasteless due to mineral removal | Varies depending on the natural mineral content | Varies and can have a distinct taste based on its mineral composition | |
| TDS Level | Very low (average 4 ppm) | Can be low or high, as minerals are retained | Often higher due to mineral content |
Why Does Salt Affect Water's Taste?
Dissolved minerals, including sodium chloride (common salt), are known as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and have a direct impact on the taste of water. Water with a high TDS level can taste salty, metallic, or bitter. By removing these solids, Aquafina creates a product with a consistently clean and neutral taste profile. This is one of the primary reasons the company invested so heavily in its purification technology.
The Health Implications of Purified Water
Since Aquafina is purified, it removes both potentially harmful contaminants and beneficial minerals. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has noted that the mineral levels in most bottled waters are so minute that their health impact is negligible. For most people with a balanced diet, the minerals gained from drinking water are not the primary source of their daily intake. Removing these minerals simply ensures the water's purity and taste consistency. For individuals concerned about mineral intake, a balanced diet or consulting a healthcare professional is the best course of action.
The Remineralization Option
For those who prefer mineral-rich water, there are options beyond Aquafina. Some home water filtration systems, particularly reverse osmosis units, include a remineralization cartridge that adds a small amount of beneficial minerals back into the water after filtration. However, Aquafina does not utilize this process, prioritizing maximum purity.
Conclusion
In summary, Aquafina water does not contain salt due to its advanced purification process. The company's use of reverse osmosis and other filtration techniques effectively removes dissolved solids, including sodium and chlorides, which are the components of salt. This results in a product with a consistently pure and tasteless profile. While this distinguishes it from spring and mineral waters, it aligns with Aquafina's mission to provide highly purified water. For health-conscious consumers, Aquafina offers a sodium-free hydration option, though those seeking a source of dietary minerals should look to their diet or other water types.
The Journey from Tap to Bottle
Aquafina's journey from a municipal source to a bottle is a sophisticated process that ensures its final purity. Here are the steps involved:
- Sourcing: Aquafina begins with local public water sources.
- Pre-filtration: The water passes through initial filters to remove larger particles.
- Reverse Osmosis: High pressure forces the water through a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved solids and ions.
- Carbon Filtration: The water is passed through a bed of carbon to further polish the taste and remove organic compounds.
- Ozonation: Ozone gas is introduced to disinfect the water without leaving a chemical residue.
- Polishing Filter: A final filter ensures the water is clear and pure.
- Bottling: The water is bottled in a sterile environment and sealed for distribution.
Visit Aquafina's official website for more details on their purification process.
