Understanding Eska's Sourcing and Filtration
Eska distinguishes itself by sourcing its water from a protected glacial esker in northern Quebec, a natural formation that provides a long, slow filtration process. According to the company, this process takes over 15 years, as rain and snow melt seeps through layers of sand, gravel, and glacial pebbles.
The benefits of this natural filtration method include:
- High Purity: The slow, natural process results in water that is microbiologically pure without extensive human-made filtration.
- Optimal Temperature: The underground esker maintains a constant low temperature of 5°C, which is too cold for bacteria to form, further safeguarding the water's purity.
- No Added Chemicals: The company states that no ozone, chlorine, or fluoride is added to the water. Its bottling process is designed to preserve this natural state, including using UV light for disinfection and a 3-micron filter as a final precautionary measure.
Mineral Composition and pH
Eska's mineral content is low, with a reported count of just 85 parts per million (ppm). This low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is intentional, contributing to the water's exceptionally clean and pure taste. This contrasts with mineral water, which typically contains a much higher TDS of over 250 ppm and can sometimes exceed safety limits. The minerals present in Eska are naturally occurring and balanced, unlike some purified waters that have minerals stripped and then artificially added back.
Additionally, Eska water has a naturally alkaline pH, typically around 7.8. The company suggests that this slightly alkaline level can help balance the body's internal acidity, contributing to overall well-being.
The Microplastic and Packaging Dilemma
Despite its natural sourcing and careful bottling process, Eska has faced scrutiny regarding microplastics. A 2018 CBC Marketplace investigation, based on research from McGill University, found microplastics in several Canadian bottled water brands, including Eska. Notably, microplastics were even found in glass bottles of Eska, suggesting environmental contamination occurred at some point in the process rather than solely from plastic bottles. While Eska's bottles are made from 100% recycled PET (rPET), the issue of microplastics remains a concern for many consumers. The full health implications of ingesting microplastics are still being studied, but the ubiquitous presence of these particles is a growing concern for both human health and the environment.
Eska vs. Tap and Filtered Water: A Comparative Overview
To understand the healthiness of Eska, it is useful to compare it against other common water sources. Here is a table summarizing key differences:
| Attribute | Eska Spring Water | Municipal Tap Water | Filtered Tap Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Protected glacial esker | Surface water (rivers, lakes) or groundwater | Public tap water |
| Filtration | Natural multi-decade filtration through glacial sediment, plus in-factory UV and micron filtering | Varies by municipality; typically uses chlorine and other chemicals for disinfection | In-home filter (carbon, reverse osmosis) removes impurities from tap water |
| Mineral Content | Low, balanced TDS (approx. 85 ppm) | Varies widely by location and source | Varies; many filters reduce mineral content |
| Microplastic Risk | Detected in studies; sources can include bottling and environment | Generally contains lower levels than bottled water | Often the lowest risk, depending on filter quality |
| Cost | High | Low | Moderate (initial filter cost, then low maintenance) |
| Convenience | High (bottles available in stores) | High (available directly from tap) | Moderate (requires filter setup and maintenance) |
| Environmental Impact | Negative (recycled plastic bottles still have a footprint) | Minimal for water delivery itself | Very low (reduced reliance on single-use plastics) |
The Importance of an Informed Choice
Ultimately, whether Eska water is the 'healthy' choice depends on a person's priorities. For those prioritizing purity derived from a pristine natural source with no chemical additives, Eska is a strong contender. Its naturally balanced pH and low mineral content are appealing features. The company has transparently detailed its sourcing and minimal processing.
However, for individuals concerned about microplastics, bottled water of any brand, including Eska, presents a potential issue. While the long-term health effects are still uncertain, the presence of these plastic particles is a documented concern. In this regard, a high-quality filter for tap water often offers a more risk-averse and environmentally friendly option.
The conversation around bottled water's health and environmental impact is ongoing. As research on microplastics continues, consumer perspectives on bottled water are likely to evolve. It's a matter of weighing the benefits of a natural spring water source against the drawbacks of plastic packaging and potential contamination. Consumers are encouraged to remain mindful of their choices and stay informed through reliable sources like CBC News, which originally reported on the microplastic findings.
Conclusion: A Balanced View on Eska Water
Eska water is a premium, naturally sourced spring water that offers a pure taste and balanced pH, deriving its qualities from a unique glacial filtration process. Its health benefits come from its natural state and minimal processing. However, like all bottled waters, it is not immune to the environmental issue of microplastic contamination, a concern that independent studies have raised. While the company ensures a highly sanitary bottling process, it cannot control all external factors. When deciding if Eska is the right choice, consumers must weigh the perceived advantages of spring water purity against the costs, environmental impact, and microplastic risks inherent in bottled water products.
