Understanding the Purification Process
Kirkland Signature Purified Drinking Water begins with municipal water sources. To achieve a high level of purity, it undergoes an intensive purification process that includes reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionization. Reverse osmosis uses pressure to force water through a semi-permeable membrane, which filters out contaminants, including salts and other dissolved solids. Distillation involves boiling the water and collecting the steam, leaving minerals behind.
The Reason for Adding Back Minerals
Following the rigorous purification, the water is virtually devoid of minerals, which can lead to a flat or tasteless profile. To enhance the taste, Kirkland adds a proprietary blend of minerals. The ingredients list often includes potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium citrate, sodium chloride, and magnesium oxide. The key point here is that the amount of these added minerals, including sodium, is carefully controlled to be minimal, primarily for flavor and not nutritional value.
Comparison of Sodium Levels in Different Water Types
The sodium content in water can vary significantly depending on its source and treatment. Here's a comparison to put the 5mg in Kirkland purified water into perspective.
| Water Type | Typical Sodium Content (per 16.9 fl oz) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kirkland Purified Water | 5mg | Minerals, including sodium salts, are added back for flavor after purification. |
| Tap Water | Varies widely | Sodium content is dependent on local municipal water sources. Some areas can have significantly higher levels than bottled water. |
| Natural Spring Water | Varies widely | Acquires minerals like sodium naturally from its source. The amount differs based on the geological rock formations it flows through. |
| Distilled Water | Close to 0mg | Considered the purest form of water, with all minerals, including sodium, completely removed during the distillation process. |
The Role of Sodium in Drinking Water
While sodium is an essential electrolyte, most of our dietary intake comes from food, not water. The amount of sodium in most bottled waters is negligible compared to the daily recommended intake. For individuals on a low-sodium diet, monitoring the sodium content in everything they consume is important. The 5mg in Kirkland purified water is not a significant concern for most, but those with severe sodium restrictions should consult a doctor.
How Added Minerals Affect Taste
The addition of minerals like sodium bicarbonate and calcium citrate to purified water is what gives it a distinct, clean taste. Without these trace minerals, water would taste flat. The purpose is to create a more palatable and refreshing product, not to provide a nutritional benefit.
List of Ingredients in Kirkland Purified Water
For those curious about the specifics, the ingredients listed on Kirkland Signature Purified Drinking Water are typically:
- Purified Water
- Potassium Bicarbonate
- Sodium Bicarbonate
- Calcium Citrate
- Sodium Chloride
- Magnesium Oxide
This blend ensures the water has a balanced and pleasant taste. It is this addition of sodium bicarbonate and sodium chloride that is responsible for the minimal sodium content reported on the nutritional label.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kirkland purified water does contain a very small amount of sodium, specifically 5mg per 16.9 fl oz bottle. This sodium is added intentionally as part of a mineral blend to improve the water's taste after the purification process, which includes reverse osmosis, has stripped it of its natural mineral content. For most people, this minimal amount is insignificant and does not pose a health risk. However, individuals on a strict low-sodium diet should be aware of this and might consider distilled water, which contains virtually no minerals. For a more balanced, refreshing taste, Kirkland's purified water is an excellent option that remains very low in sodium. It provides clean hydration with a pleasant flavor, making it a popular choice for many consumers.
Authoritative Link
For more information on sodium in drinking water and its health implications, please refer to the World Health Organization's report.
