Understanding the Absence of Calcium in Dasani
For consumers in the United States, a look at the nutritional information for standard Dasani purified water reveals a clear fact: it contains 0 mg of calcium. This is a direct consequence of the manufacturing process, which fundamentally differs from how natural spring or mineral waters are sourced and prepared. The primary purification technique used is reverse osmosis, an intensive filtration method that strips the water of its impurities, chemicals, and nearly all naturally occurring dissolved minerals.
The perception that all bottled water is the same can be misleading, particularly when it comes to mineral content. While some naturally sourced waters, like spring or mineral water, retain their mineral profiles, purified water products like Dasani intentionally remove them. The Coca-Cola Company, which produces Dasani, details this process, emphasizing that minerals like magnesium sulfate and potassium chloride are added back after purification. These specific minerals are included to create a consistent, signature taste profile, not to deliver nutritional benefits like calcium.
The Dasani Purification Process
The purification process for Dasani involves several stages designed to achieve product consistency and purity. This begins with source water filtration, followed by reverse osmosis to remove impurities and minerals like calcium. Afterward, specific minerals such as magnesium sulfate and potassium chloride are added back to enhance the flavor. Ozonation is used as a final disinfection step before bottling.
Regional Differences in Mineral Content
Dasani product composition may vary by region and market. While U.S. Dasani purified water typically contains no calcium, other versions, including some international products or specific product lines, might contain different mineral profiles. Checking the product label is recommended for precise information.
Comparison: Dasani vs. Other Water Types
Dasani's calcium content of 0 mg/L differs significantly from other water types. Spring water generally contains a variable amount of calcium (around 10-60 mg/L), while mineral water can have much higher levels (typically 100-300+ mg/L). Tap water calcium levels also vary widely depending on the municipal source (approximately 1-135 mg/L). Unlike spring or mineral water, Dasani adds minerals for flavor rather than natural content, and is not a dietary calcium source.
What About Minerals for Health?
Dasani is not designed to be a source of dietary minerals like calcium, which is important for bone health. The focus of its purification is taste consistency, not nutritional contribution. Dietary needs for calcium are typically met through foods like dairy or fortified products.
NIH Source: The Contribution of Drinking Water to Mineral Nutrition in Humans
Conclusion
Standard U.S. Dasani purified water contains no calcium due to its purification process, which removes natural minerals. Minerals are added back for flavor only. For calcium intake from water, consider natural mineral or spring water and always check labels. Dasani provides hydration but is not a source of dietary calcium.
