Understanding the Purification Process
Purified water is defined as water that has undergone a treatment process to remove contaminants and impurities, making it exceptionally clean and safe for consumption. Walmart's Great Value purified water is treated using a method known as reverse osmosis. This process involves forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, which filters out dissolved salts, chemicals, bacteria, and other impurities. While highly effective at removing undesirable substances, this rigorous treatment also strips away the naturally occurring minerals that water collects from its source.
The Role of Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is a robust purification technique that ensures the water is free from a wide range of contaminants, from heavy metals like lead to microorganisms. The resulting water is exceptionally pure, which is a major advantage for individuals concerned about tap water quality. However, a side effect of this high level of purity is that the water can taste flat or bland due to the absence of minerals.
Why Minerals are Added Back
To counteract the bland flavor that can result from reverse osmosis, manufacturers of some purified bottled water, including Walmart's Great Value, reintroduce a specific blend of minerals. These are often referred to as "flavor-enhancing minerals" and serve to give the water a pure, crisp, and refreshing taste that consumers prefer. While these added minerals do contribute to the flavor, they do not necessarily restore the full spectrum or quantity of minerals found in natural spring water.
Types of Re-Added Minerals
According to lab reports and product descriptions, the types of minerals added back can include trace amounts of:
- Calcium
- Sodium
- Chloride
It is important to note that specific minerals like magnesium, which is present in many spring waters and is vital for bodily function, may not be added back in certain purified products, as shown by lab test results for Great Value water.
Purified Water, Your Diet, and Mineral Intake
For a healthy and balanced diet, it is essential to consider where you get your nutrients, including minerals. While water does contribute to your overall mineral intake, it is not the primary source for most individuals, especially when drinking purified water with limited mineral content. Relying solely on purified water without adequate dietary sources for minerals like calcium and magnesium could potentially lead to mineral imbalances over time.
Sourcing minerals from your diet
Foods rich in essential minerals can help compensate for what might be missing in your drinking water. Examples include:
- Calcium: Dairy products, leafy greens (like spinach and kale), and fortified cereals.
- Magnesium: Nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark chocolate.
- Potassium: Bananas, potatoes, and spinach.
Comparison of Water Types
To make an informed decision, it is helpful to compare purified water with other common water types available on the market. The source, treatment process, and resulting mineral content are key differentiators.
| Feature | Walmart Great Value Purified Water | Spring Water | Distilled Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Municipal or ground water | Underground spring | Any water source |
| Treatment | Reverse osmosis, carbon filtration | Naturally filtered, often sanitized | Boiling and re-condensing steam |
| Mineral Content | Low, but with added "flavor-enhancing minerals" | Contains natural, varying mineral content | Nearly mineral-free |
| Taste | Clean, crisp, neutral | Earthy, varying flavor | Flat, bland |
| Best For | Daily drinking, cost-effective purity | Natural mineral intake, flavor | Appliances, medical devices |
The Verdict: A Balanced Perspective
Walmart purified drinking water is a safe and affordable option for hydration, especially for those concerned about contaminants found in tap water. It undergoes a rigorous purification process to remove impurities, but it is important to remember that it is not a significant source of dietary minerals. The addition of flavor-enhancing minerals improves taste, but these are minimal compared to the mineral content of natural spring water. A balanced approach is to ensure you receive essential minerals from a variety of food sources while enjoying the clean taste and purity of Walmart's purified water. Consulting a healthcare professional is always advisable if you have specific dietary concerns.
For more information on drinking water safety and regulations, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Walmart's purified drinking water does contain some minerals, but they are added back for flavor after the purification process has removed most natural content. While this ensures a clean and pleasant-tasting product, it also means it is not a reliable source of essential dietary minerals like natural spring water can be. For most people, this is not an issue, as minerals are acquired primarily through a balanced diet. However, for those with specific health conditions or dietary restrictions, awareness of their water's mineral profile is a key part of an informed nutrition diet plan.
