Understanding Smartwater's Purification Process
Smartwater is produced using a purification process called vapor distillation, which mimics the natural hydrologic cycle. This process involves boiling water and collecting the resulting steam, leaving behind minerals, chemicals, and contaminants. The collected vapor is then recondensed into liquid form, creating highly purified water.
Following distillation, a unique blend of electrolytes is added back for taste, consisting of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Because fluoride is removed during the initial distillation phase and is not one of the electrolytes added back, the final product contains no detectable amounts. Official analysis from the Coca-Cola Company confirms this, showing a fluoride concentration of less than 1 mg/L.
The Role of Vapor Distillation
Vapor distillation is an effective method for removing a wide array of impurities from water, far beyond what typical carbon filters can achieve. The process works as follows:
- Heating: The source water is heated to its boiling point, turning it into steam.
- Separation: As the water turns to steam, it leaves behind dissolved solids and minerals, which have a much higher boiling point.
- Condensation: The pure water vapor is then cooled and condensed back into its liquid state.
- Re-mineralization: A select mix of electrolytes is reintroduced to improve taste and hydration properties.
Why the Distinction Matters
For consumers, the presence or absence of fluoride is a significant consideration. Some prefer to avoid it entirely, while others rely on it for its known dental health benefits. For those who primarily drink bottled water, understanding the purification method is key to making an informed choice for their overall health and oral hygiene. Individuals seeking the dental benefits of fluoride should not rely on Smartwater and may need to supplement from other sources, such as fluoridated tap water or fluoride dental products.
Smartwater vs. Tap Water vs. Other Bottled Waters
This comparison table helps illustrate the difference between Smartwater, typical tap water, and other bottled waters.
| Feature | Smartwater | Typical U.S. Tap Water | Natural Spring Water | Reverse Osmosis Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fluoride Content | Not detectable | Often fluoridated to optimal levels for dental health | Varies by source; may contain some naturally | Generally very low or non-existent |
| Purification Method | Vapor Distillation | Municipal treatment, including filtration and disinfection | Minimal processing, natural filtration through rock | Membrane separation |
| Added Electrolytes | Yes (calcium, magnesium, potassium) | Varies based on source | No (minerals are naturally occurring) | Often added back for taste after filtration |
| Cost | Premium priced | Very low cost | Varies | Can be high for high-quality filtration systems or premium bottles |
| Taste Profile | Crisp and pure | Varies by location and source | Earthy, mineral flavor | Often described as flat |
Conclusion
In summary, Smartwater does not have fluoride in it due to its vapor distillation purification process, which removes all naturally occurring and added minerals. While the company adds electrolytes back for a distinct taste, fluoride is intentionally omitted. This makes it a suitable choice for those who wish to avoid fluoride in their drinking water. However, those who rely on fluoridated water for dental benefits should be mindful of this and seek alternative sources to maintain adequate fluoride intake. Choosing the right water for your needs depends on your personal preferences regarding taste, cost, and mineral content. For more information on water quality and standards, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention..
