Aquafina's Purification Process: The Path to Sodium-Free Water
Aquafina is not sourced from a natural spring but rather from public water supplies, which are then subject to an extensive purification process. This is a crucial distinction that explains its nearly non-existent sodium content. The company's proprietary HydRO-7 process is designed to remove most dissolved solids, including minerals and salts, which are typically found in both tap and some bottled mineral waters.
The HydRO-7 process employs several advanced steps to achieve its high level of purity. The first step involves extensive filtration to remove large particles and impurities. This is followed by reverse osmosis, a technology that uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved salts, chlorides, and other substances. The remaining steps further refine the water, ensuring it is as pure as possible and tasteless, resulting in the "perfect taste" the company advertises. This meticulous process removes not only sodium but also other trace minerals, which is why Aquafina is classified as a purified drinking water rather than a natural mineral water.
Impact on a Low-Sodium Diet
For individuals on a medically-advised, low-sodium diet, Aquafina is an excellent choice. Since it contains 0 mg of sodium per serving, it does not contribute to the daily sodium intake limit recommended by health professionals. This is particularly important for managing conditions such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, or Meniere's disease, where sodium restriction is key to treatment. Many prepared foods and beverages already contain high levels of sodium, making a sodium-free drinking water an easy way to help control overall intake.
Comparative Sodium Content in Bottled Waters
The sodium content in bottled water can vary significantly depending on the source and processing. Natural mineral and spring waters often contain varying amounts of naturally occurring minerals, including sodium, which are not removed during bottling. In contrast, purified water brands like Aquafina undergo rigorous treatment to strip out these dissolved solids. This distinction is vital for consumers tracking their sodium intake.
Here is a comparison of the approximate sodium content in various types of water:
| Water Type | Typical Sodium Content (per liter) | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| Aquafina Purified Water | 0 mg | Undergoes a seven-step purification process, including reverse osmosis. |
| Tap Water | Varies widely, often <20 mg | Regulated by the EPA, but content depends on the source and local treatment. |
| Natural Mineral Water | Highly variable (e.g., Pineo: 0.9 mg/L; others >100 mg/L) | Sourced from a protected underground source with naturally occurring minerals. |
| Sparkling Mineral Water | Typically higher than still water (e.g., one Aquafina sparkling variety: 36 mg/12 oz) | Carbonated, and often has added minerals and electrolytes. |
| Distilled Water | 0 mg | Made by boiling water and condensing the steam; removes almost all minerals and impurities. |
| Spring Water | Varies depending on source; usually low | Comes from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface. |
How Aquafina's Purification Stacks Up
The Aquafina process stands apart due to its intensity and effectiveness. While many water filters improve taste and remove some contaminants, the HydRO-7 system is designed for a near-complete removal of dissolved solids. Reverse osmosis, a key component, forces water through a membrane that only allows pure water molecules to pass, leaving contaminants behind. For those who prefer a neutral taste profile and need to avoid sodium entirely, this process is superior to simply filtering or boiling water, as those methods may not remove all dissolved minerals.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to the question "How much sodium does Aquafina water have?" is zero. The brand's commitment to using its comprehensive HydRO-7 purification process ensures that its bottled purified water is completely free of sodium and other dissolved solids. This makes Aquafina a safe and suitable option for anyone looking to reduce their sodium intake for health reasons or simply preferring a clean, neutral-tasting water. By removing minerals and salts, Aquafina offers a product that stands in contrast to natural spring or mineral waters, providing consumers with a clear choice based on their dietary needs and taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aquafina water safe to drink for someone with high blood pressure?
Yes, Aquafina water is safe for individuals with high blood pressure, as it contains 0 mg of sodium, making it an excellent choice for a sodium-restricted diet.
Does the purification process remove beneficial minerals from Aquafina water?
Yes, the HydRO-7 purification process, including reverse osmosis, removes most dissolved solids, including beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Why does some bottled water taste salty or have minerals?
Bottled water that tastes salty or contains minerals is likely natural mineral or spring water, where the minerals are naturally present and not removed during bottling.
Is Aquafina better than Dasani in terms of sodium?
Both Aquafina and Dasani are purified waters that contain very low or negligible amounts of sodium. Consumers can compare the nutrition labels for the exact content, but both are considered low-sodium options.
What is the difference between purified and distilled water?
Purified water (like Aquafina) is processed to remove most contaminants, typically through reverse osmosis, while distilled water is created by boiling and re-condensing steam, removing nearly all impurities, including minerals.
How can I check the sodium content of other bottled water brands?
To check the sodium content of other bottled water brands, you should look for the nutrition facts label on the bottle or visit the manufacturer's website. Brands that are labeled as "purified" generally have lower sodium levels.
Can sodium in drinking water affect health?
While drinking water is a minimal source of overall sodium intake, those with health conditions requiring a strict low-sodium diet should be mindful of the sodium content in all beverages, as excess sodium is linked to raised blood pressure.
