The Science Behind Dasani's Composition
To understand why Dasani water contains calcium, it's essential to first look at the purification process it undergoes. The starting point for Dasani is often local municipal tap water. This source water is subjected to a multi-barrier treatment system, which includes the highly effective method of reverse osmosis.
Reverse osmosis is a filtration process that pushes water through a semipermeable membrane. This step is designed to strip the water of virtually all dissolved solids, including natural minerals, contaminants, and other impurities. The result is a very pure, demineralized water. While this process effectively cleans the water, it also removes the natural minerals that can contribute to a desirable flavor.
To ensure a consistent and appealing taste, Coca-Cola adds back a specific blend of minerals. This process is often called 'remineralization.' The minerals typically added include a small amount of calcium, as well as magnesium sulfate, potassium chloride, and sodium chloride (table salt). The addition of these trace minerals is what gives Dasani its distinct, consistent flavor profile.
The Role of Calcium in Bottled Water
While Dasani adds a small amount of calcium for taste, other types of bottled water offer a different mineral experience. The amount of calcium in water can vary significantly depending on its source and treatment. For example, spring water naturally contains minerals collected from its source, while mineral water can have significantly higher concentrations. The calcium in water can contribute to overall dietary intake, though most sources of dietary calcium come from food.
- Source: The origin of the water, whether a natural spring, well, or municipal supply, dictates its initial mineral content. Tap water, for example, has highly variable calcium levels depending on the city.
- Filtration: The purification method is crucial. Processes like reverse osmosis remove minerals, while simple carbon filtration may leave many intact.
- Remineralization: Companies like Coca-Cola add back minerals to purified water for taste purposes, not for significant nutritional benefit.
- Water Type: Consumers can choose between purified, spring, or mineral water, each offering a different level of total dissolved solids and, consequently, calcium.
Is All Bottled Water the Same?
No, not all bottled water is the same, and the mineral content is one of the key differentiators. Purified water, like Dasani, is known for its consistent taste because the process removes almost everything before adding back a standardized mineral blend. In contrast, spring water often has a taste that varies with its source, reflecting the minerals naturally present. Mineral water, by definition, must contain a minimum amount of total dissolved solids and can offer a more significant amount of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
| Feature | Dasani Purified Water | Natural Spring Water | Mineral Water | Tap Water (Average) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Municipal water supply | Underground springs | Protected underground source | Local municipal water system |
| Purification | Reverse osmosis, filtration, and ozonation | Varies, often minimal treatment | Minimal treatment at the source | Varies by municipality |
| Mineral Content | Trace amounts added for taste | Varies significantly by source | High; must meet specific standards | Varies significantly by city |
| Calcium Presence | Yes, a small amount is added | Can be low or high depending on source | Often high; varies by brand | Varies widely by region |
| Taste Profile | Consistent and standardized | Can vary based on mineral composition | Unique taste reflecting mineral blend | Varies based on source and treatment |
The Consumer Choice: Dasani vs. Other Options
The choice of bottled water comes down to personal preference and health considerations. For those seeking a reliable, consistent, and clean-tasting water, Dasani and other purified brands are an excellent choice. However, if a consumer is looking for water with a naturally high mineral content, including calcium, they would be better served by looking at brands labeled as 'mineral water'. Many bottled water brands openly publish their mineral analysis, allowing consumers to make an informed choice.
For example, some European bottled mineral waters are known for their high calcium levels, with certain brands containing a significant percentage of the daily recommended intake per liter. A surveillance study found that mineral waters contained an average of 208 mg/L of calcium, a substantial difference from purified varieties. This level of calcium would constitute a notable portion of a person's dietary needs if consumed regularly.
For most people, the trace amounts of calcium in Dasani are not a significant dietary contribution. A balanced diet remains the primary way to get essential nutrients like calcium. The primary benefit of Dasani is its consistent purity and taste, achieved through a controlled and standardized process. The controversial origins of the water, such as the use of municipal water, and the subsequent remineralization process, is a common topic of consumer discussion, especially in light of tap water quality. However, it is a perfectly safe and regulated product for consumption.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dasani water does have calcium in it, but only in trace amounts. The calcium is part of a proprietary blend of minerals added back to the water after it has been purified through reverse osmosis. This is done to achieve a consistent taste, not to provide significant nutritional value. The level of calcium is minimal compared to naturally occurring levels found in some spring or mineral waters. Consumers seeking higher mineral content from their water should explore brands specifically labeled as mineral water, while those who prefer a clean, reliable, and standardized flavor will find Dasani a suitable choice. The overall health impact of these trace minerals is negligible, and they do not replace a balanced dietary source of calcium.
