Aquafina's Purification Process: The Hydro-7 System
Aquafina is not sourced directly from a pristine spring but rather begins its journey from public water sources. What happens next is a meticulous and rigorous purification process called Hydro-7, developed by PepsiCo, to ensure a consistently pure taste. The primary goal of this process is to remove impurities and other dissolved solids, which include salts.
The Critical Role of Reverse Osmosis
Central to Aquafina’s purification is reverse osmosis (RO). RO is a process where water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane at high pressure. This membrane has extremely small pores that block the passage of larger molecules and ions, such as sodium and chloride, which are the components of salt. By removing these elements, reverse osmosis ensures that the final product is free of salt and other minerals that could affect the taste. This is why Aquafina has a clean, crisp taste that is distinct from mineral-rich spring waters. PepsiCo's FAQ confirms that the process removes trace compounds like sodium.
Understanding Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is a measurement of all inorganic and organic substances dissolved in water. For a bottled water to be legally labeled as "purified," the FDA requires it to have a TDS level of no more than 10 parts per million (ppm). Thanks to its purification process, Aquafina’s average TDS reading is even lower, at around 4 ppm, which is significantly lower than the FDA standard. This low TDS is a direct result of removing minerals and salts from the water. Spring water, in contrast, often has much higher TDS levels because it retains naturally occurring minerals.
Aquafina vs. Other Bottled Waters: A Comparison
To better understand why Aquafina contains no salt, it is helpful to compare it to other popular types of bottled water. The primary difference lies in the source and the processing method.
| Feature | Aquafina (Purified Water) | Spring Water (e.g., Evian, Fiji) | Mineral-Enhanced Water (e.g., Dasani, Smartwater) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Public municipal sources | Underground spring formation | Public municipal sources |
| Purification Method | Multi-step Hydro-7 process, including reverse osmosis | Screened and disinfected, retains natural minerals | Purified via reverse osmosis, but minerals are added back |
| Mineral/Salt Content | 0 mg of sodium; minerals removed | Variable, contains naturally occurring minerals and salts | Contains added minerals like potassium chloride and magnesium sulfate |
| TDS Level | Extremely low (average of 4 ppm) | Higher, as it retains natural solids | Low, but higher than pure RO water due to added electrolytes |
No Added Sodium or Minerals
Unlike some brands that purify their water and then add a blend of minerals back for taste, Aquafina does not follow this practice. A common misconception is that all bottled water contains minerals; however, Aquafina's process is engineered to remove them. The manufacturer explicitly states that no fluoride, sodium, or other minerals are added back to the purified product, ensuring that the final taste is as clean as possible. This commitment to a minimal TDS profile is what makes the water distinctly pure in flavor for many consumers.
The Taste of Purity
The reason some people describe Aquafina's taste as 'clean' or 'neutral' is precisely because of its low TDS level. The taste of water is heavily influenced by its mineral composition. Without these dissolved solids, the water has a very simple flavor profile. This contrasts with spring waters, whose unique taste profiles are often celebrated for the very mineral content that Aquafina works to eliminate. The removal of chlorides and sulfates, which are components of salt, is a key part of achieving Aquafina's consistent and perfect taste.
Conclusion
In summary, the question of 'does Aquafina bottled water contain salt' is answered with a clear and scientifically-backed 'no.' The brand's use of an advanced purification system, most notably reverse osmosis, is designed to systematically remove salts, minerals, and other dissolved solids from its public water source. This results in a product with a TDS average of just 4 ppm and a sodium content of 0mg, as confirmed on nutritional labels. For consumers seeking water without added or naturally occurring salts, Aquafina represents a reliable choice based on its production methods. You can find more information on their official website: Aquafina FAQs.
