How safe is Kirkland sparkling water?

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

A 2020 Consumer Reports study found that many carbonated water brands contained measurable levels of PFAS 'forever chemicals,' prompting questions among consumers: how safe is Kirkland sparkling water, and are its ingredients and manufacturing process a cause for concern?

Quick Summary

An examination of Kirkland sparkling water's safety, including an analysis of its ingredients like natural flavors and sucralose, potential contaminants such as PFAS, and the health effects of acidity on dental and gut health.

Key Points

Sucralose and Additives: Flavored Kirkland sparkling water contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener, along with vitamins, citric acid, and artificial colors, which some health-conscious consumers may wish to avoid.
Acidity and Dental Risk: Due to carbonation and added acids, sparkling water is mildly acidic and can contribute to dental enamel erosion over time, though it is far less damaging than soda.
PFAS Contaminants: Industry-wide testing has revealed PFAS (forever chemicals) in many sparkling water brands, but specific public test results for Kirkland sparkling water are not readily available.
Isolated Recall: A past recall of Kirkland's Italian Sparkling Mineral Water in Taiwan involved plastic fragments, but this was a localized issue and involved a different product formula.
Moderation is Key: For the average consumer, Kirkland sparkling water is safe in moderation. Health risks are primarily associated with excessive, long-term consumption and can be mitigated by careful dental habits.
Watch for Reformulations: Product formulations can change over time. Recent reports from consumers suggest a change in the flavor profile of some Kirkland sparkling water, possibly indicating a supplier change or formula adjustment.

Understanding the Ingredients in Kirkland Sparkling Water

The safety of Kirkland sparkling water largely depends on the specific product and its ingredients. Costco's Kirkland brand sells several types, including a plain sparkling mineral water and a variety pack of flavored sparkling waters. The flavored options are where most of the additional ingredients are found.

Flavored Kirkland Sparkling Water Ingredients

The variety pack flavors, such as Orange Mango and Black Raspberry, include carbonated water, natural flavors, sucralose (an artificial sweetener), vitamins, citric and malic acids, color additives, and potassium benzoate. The term "natural flavors" has been subject to scrutiny in a class-action lawsuit. While the FDA considers sucralose safe in moderation, some studies suggest potential negative impacts on gut health.

Kirkland Italian Sparkling Mineral Water Ingredients

This product is simpler, containing only mineral water and carbon dioxide, sourced from Italy.

Potential Contaminants and Recalls

PFAS "Forever Chemicals"

PFAS are a concern in bottled and canned water. A 2020 Consumer Reports study found PFAS in many brands, but didn't specify findings for Kirkland sparkling water. While a 2024 FDA update found PFAS in some bottled waters below EPA limits, specific data for Kirkland products is not widely available.

Recalls and Quality Complaints

Kirkland products have experienced issues:

Taiwan Italian Mineral Water Recall (2025): Recalled in Taiwan due to plastic pieces. This did not affect the US market.
Flavoring Lawsuit (2022): A lawsuit over "natural flavor" claims for black raspberry was dismissed.
Customer Quality Concerns (2024): Some customers have reported an off-taste, possibly due to a formula or supplier change.

Acidity and Dental Health

Carbonated water is acidic (pH around 4-5) and can erode enamel over time, especially flavored versions with added acids.

Tips for protecting your dental health:

Enjoy with meals: This can help mitigate acidic effects.
Use a straw: This can help bypass direct contact with your teeth.
Limit frequency: Avoid sipping throughout the day.
Rinse with plain water: Rinse your mouth after drinking to neutralize pH.

Comparison Table: Kirkland Sparkling Water


Feature	Flavored Kirkland Sparkling Water	Kirkland Italian Sparkling Mineral Water	Plain Tap Water
Ingredients	Carbonated Water, Natural Flavors, Sucralose, Vitamins, Preservatives, Colors, Citric/Malic Acid	Mineral Water, Carbon Dioxide	Filtered municipal or well water
Acidity (Typical pH)	~2.5 - 4.0	~5.5	~7.0 (neutral)
Sweeteners	Sucralose (Artificial)	None	None
Cost	Low (bulk pricing)	Moderate (bulk pricing)	Very Low
Potential Concerns	Artificial sweeteners, colorings, flavor lawsuit, acidity, potential PFAS	Mineral content variability, past recall in Taiwan, potential PFAS	Chlorine, contaminants vary by source, tap water quality varies

The Overall Verdict on Safety

Kirkland sparkling water is generally safe in moderation for most healthy individuals. Concerns primarily relate to long-term, excessive consumption. Flavored varieties contain artificial additives like sucralose and food dyes. All sparkling water is acidic and can pose a dental risk over time. While PFAS are an industry concern, specific data for Kirkland products is limited. Recall issues have been localized or involved different products. Plain varieties offer a cleaner profile.

The decision rests on personal health priorities and moderation. Avoiding artificial ingredients and dental risks might lead you to plain varieties or limited intake of flavored ones. It's a healthier alternative to sugary sodas. For more on sparkling water health effects, consult sources like Healthline.

Conclusion

While Kirkland sparkling water is generally safe, its safety profile depends on the specific product. Flavored options contain artificial additives. All carbonated water is acidic and can affect dental enamel with heavy consumption. Although PFAS in sparkling water is a documented industry issue, specific data for Kirkland products is not widely available. Consumers can mitigate concerns by moderating intake and choosing additive-free options. The Italian Sparkling Mineral Water is a cleaner alternative, despite a past regional quality issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kirkland sparkling water can be a healthy alternative to sugary sodas, especially the plain and mineral varieties. However, the flavored versions contain artificial sweeteners (sucralose) and additives that some people may want to limit or avoid.

Yes, the flavored varieties of Kirkland sparkling water, such as the Orange Mango, Kiwi Strawberry, and Black Raspberry, contain the artificial sweetener sucralose.

While a 2020 Consumer Reports study found PFAS in many sparkling water brands, specific test results for Kirkland sparkling water were not included. Publicly available data for this specific product is lacking, though the general risk in bottled water is known.

All sparkling water is mildly acidic due to carbonation, which can potentially harm tooth enamel over time with excessive exposure. Flavored versions with added acids like citric acid can be even more acidic. Moderating consumption and rinsing your mouth with plain water can help protect your teeth.

The 'natural flavors' are a proprietary blend of substances extracted from natural sources to enhance the taste. Despite the name, they can still involve chemical processing and additives, which has prompted at least one lawsuit alleging deceptive labeling.

The manufacturer for Kirkland's products, including water, varies. Niagara Bottling produces Kirkland purified drinking water. The Italian Sparkling Mineral Water is sourced from Italy. Costco works with many different suppliers under the Kirkland brand, and the bottler for the US-market sparkling water is not publicly specified.

Yes, there was a recall in Taiwan for Kirkland's Italian Sparkling Mineral Water in 2025 due to plastic fragments. This was an isolated incident that did not impact the US market. Separately, some US customers have reported general quality issues.

Sucralose is approved by the FDA as a safe artificial sweetener. However, some health researchers and consumers express concern about its potential effects on gut microbiome, suggesting it's best to consume in moderation.