Yes, Aquafina is processed using a multi-step purification method
Aquafina is a prime example of purified bottled water, which, by its very definition, means it undergoes a processing and purification treatment. Unlike spring water, which is sourced from an underground formation and naturally contains minerals, purified water starts from a public, municipal water source and is treated to remove almost all of its contents, including minerals and contaminants. The key to Aquafina's distinctively clean taste lies in this rigorous, multi-stage processing.
The HydRO-7™ Purification System
The core of Aquafina's water processing is the proprietary HydRO-7™ system, a state-of-the-art purification process that ensures a consistent, high level of purity. The seven-step process is specifically designed to strip the water of trace compounds that can affect taste, including carbonates, chlorides, and salts. The average Aquafina water has a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) reading of 4 parts per million (ppm), which is significantly lower than the FDA standard of 10 ppm for purified water.
Step-by-step breakdown of the HydRO-7™ process
- Prefiltration: The process begins by removing larger particles like dirt and sediment to protect the more sensitive filters later on.
- Polishing Filters: Two separate polishing filters are used at different stages to catch any smaller particles that made it through the initial filtration steps.
- High-Intensity UV Light: The water is exposed to high-energy ultraviolet light, which helps eliminate naturally occurring organic substances and provides an extra layer of microbiological protection.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): This is the most critical step, where the water is forced under high pressure through a semi-permeable membrane with very small pores. The RO membrane effectively removes up to 98-99% of all Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), including salts, chlorides, and minerals.
- Charcoal Filtration: This stage uses activated carbon to remove any remaining trace elements that can affect the water's taste and odor.
- Ozonation: Finally, the water is treated with ozone, a highly effective disinfectant, to ensure it is microbiologically safe before bottling.
Comparing Purified vs. Spring Water
Aquafina's purified water contrasts sharply with natural spring water, which retains its mineral content. This difference affects taste, composition, and processing requirements. While some consumers prefer the taste of mineral-rich spring water, others favor the clean, neutral taste of purified water. The choice often comes down to individual preference and beliefs about mineral intake through water versus diet.
| Feature | Aquafina (Purified Water) | Spring Water |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Public/Municipal Water Sources | Underground, flowing spring source |
| Processing | Rigorous multi-step HydRO-7™ system, including reverse osmosis | Treated to remove bacteria and contaminants, but typically less extensive |
| Mineral Content | Minerals and electrolytes are intentionally removed | Retains many of its naturally occurring minerals and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) |
| Taste Profile | Consistently clean and neutral taste | Taste can vary based on its unique mineral composition |
| TDS Level | Very low, averages 4 ppm | Varies, but generally higher than purified water, and must be below 500 ppm per FDA guidelines |
Conclusion: The Process is What Defines Aquafina
To answer the question, "is Aquafina water processed?", the answer is definitively yes. Its very nature as a purified bottled water means it undergoes significant industrial treatment. This extensive processing, centered around the HydRO-7™ system, is not a point of criticism but rather a core aspect of its brand identity, designed to deliver a consistently pure and clean-tasting product. By removing dissolved solids and potential contaminants from a municipal source, PepsiCo provides a reliable hydration option that meets or exceeds federal purity standards. Consumers can be confident that the water they are drinking has undergone a thorough and deliberate purification procedure, resulting in the predictable taste and quality they expect from the brand. For more information on Aquafina's process, visit the official Aquafina FAQ page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquafina Water Processing
How is Aquafina water purified?
Aquafina is purified using a multi-step process called HydRO-7™, which includes prefiltration, carbon filtration, reverse osmosis, UV light exposure, and ozonation to remove total dissolved solids and other impurities.
Where does Aquafina water come from?
Aquafina water originates from public or municipal water sources, the same sources as regular tap water, before being put through its advanced purification process.
Does Aquafina add minerals or electrolytes to its water?
No, Aquafina's purification system is specifically designed to remove minerals and dissolved solids. The company does not add any electrolytes back into the unflavored purified water product.
Why does Aquafina remove beneficial minerals?
According to Aquafina, the trace levels of minerals like calcium and potassium found in most bottled water have a minimal impact on health. They remove these compounds to achieve a more consistent and pure water taste.
Is reverse osmosis water safe to drink?
Yes, reverse osmosis is considered one of the most effective technologies for producing high-quality drinking water by removing contaminants, heavy metals, and dissolved solids. Many bottled water companies, including Aquafina, utilize this method.
Is purified water better than spring water?
Neither is inherently "better"; it depends on personal preference. Purified water like Aquafina offers a consistently neutral taste with minimal dissolved solids, while spring water retains naturally occurring minerals that give it a unique flavor.
What is Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)?
TDS is the total concentration of dissolved substances, such as minerals, salts, and organic compounds, in a given volume of water. Lower TDS generally indicates higher purity.
Did Aquafina change its labels to disclose its source?
Yes, in 2007, after facing criticism, PepsiCo added a disclaimer to Aquafina bottles stating that the water came from a "public source".
