Defining Clean: What 'Pure' Really Means for Bottled Water
When searching for the cleanest bottled water, the answer isn't as simple as picking the most expensive or popular brand. The definition of "clean" can vary. For some, it means a complete absence of dissolved solids and minerals, achieved through intensive purification processes. For others, it implies water filtered naturally through geological formations, retaining beneficial minerals. Understanding the different water types and their sources is key to making an informed choice.
The Three Main Types of Bottled Water
Purified Water
Purified water can come from a municipal supply, like tap water, but undergoes extensive treatment to remove contaminants and dissolved solids.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): This process forces water through a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities and almost all Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). Brands like Aquafina and Dasani use this method, with Aquafina achieving a very low TDS of around 4 ppm, while Dasani adds minerals back for a specific taste profile.
- Distillation: Water is boiled, and the resulting steam is condensed back into liquid, leaving impurities behind. This creates water with a TDS of 0, but it can taste flat due to the absence of minerals.
Natural Spring Water
Sourced from a protected underground formation, spring water flows to the surface and is collected at the source. While treated to ensure safety, it retains its natural mineral content, which gives it a distinct flavor profile. Brands like Evian and Fiji are examples of natural spring water.
Artesian Water
Artesian water comes from a confined underground aquifer where natural pressure forces it to the surface. Brands like Fiji source their water from artesian aquifers. Similar to spring water, it retains naturally occurring minerals.
Key Factors for Assessing Bottled Water Purity
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): This metric measures the concentration of dissolved substances, including minerals and contaminants, in parts per million (ppm). Purified water typically has a very low TDS, while natural spring and mineral waters have a higher, natural TDS. A low TDS doesn't automatically mean healthier; it simply means fewer dissolved solids.
- pH Level: The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. Water with a pH below 7 is acidic, while above 7 is alkaline. While alkaline water is often marketed as healthier, its benefits are debated, and the body maintains its pH balance regardless of the water consumed. Some brands like Icelandic Glacial and Evian are naturally alkaline.
- Contaminant Testing: Both the FDA and EPA regulate bottled water and tap water, respectively. However, recent events like the recall of Fiji water for manganese and bacterial contamination highlight the importance of independent and up-to-date testing. For consumers concerned about potential issues, choosing a brand with transparent, recent water quality reports is wise.
Comparison of Popular Bottled Water Brands
| Brand | Source | Purification | Typical TDS (ppm) | Typical pH | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aquafina | Public Water Supply | Reverse Osmosis, Ozone, UV | ~4 | Mildly acidic (6.5) | Purified for consistency, removes virtually all minerals. |
| Dasani | Municipal Supply | Reverse Osmosis + Mineral Additives | ~28 | Mildly acidic (6.1) | Minerals added back for taste; owned by Coca-Cola. |
| Evian | French Alps Spring | Natural Filtration | ~283 | Alkaline (8.0) | High natural mineral content, transported from France. |
| Fiji | Artesian Aquifer | Filtered, UV Disinfection | ~131 | Alkaline (7.7) | High silica content; recent recall due to manganese. |
| Icelandic Glacial | Olfus Spring, Iceland | Natural Filtration | ~52 | Naturally Alkaline (8.0+) | Filtered by lava rock; lower TDS than some spring waters. |
| Voss | Norwegian Artesian | Natural Filtration | ~23 | Acidic (5.0) | Low TDS but surprisingly acidic pH. |
A Critical Look at Cleanliness
While marketing often emphasizes pristine sources and natural purity, a truly critical evaluation considers the entire journey from source to bottle. Concerns exist regarding microplastics leaching into water from plastic bottles, particularly when exposed to heat during shipping. Additionally, the environmental impact of long-distance shipping, especially for international brands like Evian and Fiji, is significant. Some consumers opt for glass bottles (e.g., Voss glass) or alternative packaging like aluminum cans (e.g., Liquid Death) or cardboard boxes (e.g., Boxed Water) to mitigate these issues. The decision for the "cleanest" option might also involve sustainability and avoiding packaging concerns.
Conclusion
There is no single "cleanest bottled water" that suits everyone. For those prioritizing a taste-neutral, mineral-free experience, purified brands like Aquafina or distilled water are the purest from a TDS perspective. However, if natural minerals and flavor are important, spring or artesian waters like Icelandic Glacial or Evian are better choices, despite potentially higher TDS. Given the various options, consider personal priorities, the brand's quality control, and the potential environmental impact. For ultimate purity control and cost-effectiveness, investing in a home reverse osmosis system is a compelling alternative to relying on bottled products.
For more detailed information on bottled water safety and quality standards, see this report: BOTTLED WATER QUALITY REPORT FIJI® WATER COMPANY.
