Understanding the pH Scale
To determine if Aquafina is alkaline, it's essential to understand the pH scale. The pH scale measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a substance to determine its acidity or alkalinity. The scale ranges from 0 to 14, where a pH of 7 is neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, and anything above 7 is alkaline (or basic). Pure water is considered to have a neutral pH of 7, but various factors can alter this.
Aquafina's Purification Process: The HydRO-7 System
Aquafina is not sourced from a natural spring; it begins as municipal tap water. It is then subjected to a rigorous, seven-step purification process called HydRO-7, which includes reverse osmosis. This process removes substances like chlorides, salts, and other dissolved solids that can affect the water's taste.
The Role of Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis (RO) is a critical step in the HydRO-7 process. RO uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved ions and particles from the water. While this is effective for producing high-purity water, it also removes minerals and electrolytes that would naturally contribute to alkalinity. The result is water with very low total dissolved solids (TDS) and a slightly acidic pH. Aquafina explicitly states its purification process removes trace compounds like calcium and magnesium, which are key to making water naturally alkaline.
Is Aquafina Alkaline? The Verdict
Based on its purification method, Aquafina is not alkaline. Multiple independent tests and data from Aquafina's parent company, PepsiCo, confirm its pH is typically in the slightly acidic to neutral range. While reported pH levels can vary slightly, common findings place Aquafina's pH around 5.5 to 7.0, well below the alkaline threshold.
Comparison Table: Aquafina vs. Other Brands
| Water Brand | Typical pH Range | Purification Method / Source |
|---|---|---|
| Aquafina | 5.5 - 7.0 | Municipal water, reverse osmosis (HydRO-7) |
| Dasani | ~5.0 | Municipal water, reverse osmosis, mineral additives |
| Fiji | ~7.8 | Artesian aquifer, volcanic rock filtration |
| Evian | ~7.5 | Glacial spring, natural filtration |
| Tap Water | 6.5 - 8.5 | Varies by municipality |
| Eternal Water | 7.8 - 8.2 | Spring water, natural filtration |
The Difference Between Purified and Alkaline Water
It's a common misconception that all bottled water is the same. Purified water, like Aquafina, is stripped of its minerals through processes like reverse osmosis. The goal is to remove contaminants and dissolved solids to achieve a consistently pure taste. In contrast, naturally alkaline water gets its higher pH from the minerals it absorbs as it passes through rock formations. Some brands also produce artificially alkaline water by adding minerals back to purified water or using ionization.
Factors Influencing Bottled Water pH
- Source: Water from natural springs or artesian aquifers can be naturally alkaline due to mineral exposure.
- Purification: Processes like reverse osmosis remove minerals, which can lower pH and result in slightly acidic water.
- Added Minerals: Some companies add minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium to their purified water to make it alkaline and improve taste.
- Carbonation: Carbonated waters contain dissolved carbon dioxide, which creates carbonic acid, resulting in a lower, more acidic pH. Aquafina is not carbonated.
The Alkaline Water Trend and Scientific Evidence
While Aquafina is not alkaline, the trend of drinking alkaline water has gained popularity due to various health claims, such as improved hydration, disease prevention, and neutralizing body acid. However, as the Mayo Clinic points out, there is a lack of scientific research to fully support these claims. Limited studies suggest potential links to benefits like decreased bone loss or acid reflux relief, but more research is needed. Our bodies are designed to maintain a stable pH balance regardless of the water we drink. For credible health information, consult reliable sources like the Mayo Clinic's website on the topic.
Conclusion
To put it simply, Aquafina bottled water is not alkaline. Its purification process, which includes reverse osmosis, removes the natural minerals that would otherwise raise its pH level. This results in water that is typically slightly acidic, but still well within safe drinking standards. While it offers consistency and purity, those seeking a water with a higher pH for its perceived benefits should opt for brands specifically labeled as alkaline water, which are typically sourced differently or have minerals added back in.
