The Source: Starting with Municipal Water
Many bottled water companies rely on protected spring or artesian sources for their product. In contrast, Essentia openly states that it uses municipal water supplies as its initial source. This practice is not uncommon in the bottled water industry, particularly for brands that sell treated or purified water. By starting with a municipal supply, Essentia ensures a consistent and accessible water base that is already held to EPA standards (in the US) for potability. The key difference lies in what happens next in the production line, which is where Essentia’s branding and process come into play.
Essentia's Proprietary Three-Step Process
Essentia transforms its municipal water source into its final product through a unique, three-stage proprietary process. This method is the primary justification for the brand's premium pricing and its reputation as an "overachieving H2O".
Step 1: Microfiltration and Reverse Osmosis
The first stage focuses on achieving maximum purity. The water is run through a rigorous system of microfiltration and reverse osmosis (RO). This step is designed to remove unwanted particles, contaminants, and dissolved solids, stripping the water to a 99.9% pure state. It essentially removes everything, creating a blank slate before the next steps are taken. Standard tap water, while treated, may still contain trace minerals, chemicals, and other impurities that these advanced filtration methods are designed to eliminate.
Step 2: Electrolyte Infusion
After being purified, the water is re-mineralized with a proprietary blend of electrolytes. Essentia explains these electrolytes—which include sodium bicarbonate, dipotassium phosphate, magnesium sulfate, and calcium chloride—are added for a smooth, clean taste and to complement the body's natural composition. While municipal tap water naturally contains a variety of minerals depending on its source, Essentia’s process adds a very specific, controlled combination for a signature flavor profile. This targeted infusion is a key differentiator from standard tap water.
Step 3: Ionization
The final and most distinct step is the proprietary ionization process. During this stage, the water is run through a system that removes bitter-tasting acidic ions, resulting in a high alkaline water with a pH of 9.5 or higher. This is the "supercharged" aspect of Essentia and is the reason for its alkaline claim. This ionization is what sets it apart from both standard tap water and many other bottled waters, which have neutral or slightly acidic pH levels.
The Key Differences: Essentia vs. Tap Water
To better understand the disparities, here is a breakdown comparing Essentia Water and typical municipal tap water.
| Feature | Essentia Water | Municipal Tap Water |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Source | Municipal water supplies | Local reservoirs, rivers, and groundwater |
| Purification Method | Multi-stage, including microfiltration and reverse osmosis | Standardized municipal treatment (chlorination, coagulation, filtration) |
| pH Level | 9.5 or higher, achieved through ionization | Varies by municipality, typically neutral (around 7.0) to slightly acidic |
| Mineral/Electrolyte Content | Specific, proprietary blend added post-purification | Varies widely based on the natural source |
| Taste Profile | Described as clean and smooth due to added electrolytes and ionization | Varies widely, can have a distinct taste based on source and treatment |
| Cost | Significantly higher due to advanced processing and bottling | Negligible, included in utility bills |
| Regulation | Regulated by the FDA | Regulated by the EPA |
Marketing vs. Scientific Benefits
Essentia and other alkaline water brands often market benefits like superior hydration and acid neutralization. While a 2017 study cited by the brand suggested Essentia provides better rehydration than a leading bottled water after exercise, some health experts remain skeptical of widespread claims. The body is highly effective at regulating its own pH, and a significant portion of the alkaline water phenomenon is considered by some to be driven by clever marketing. While drinking Essentia is generally safe, the extraordinary health benefits often attributed to alkaline water are not yet supported by extensive, conclusive scientific evidence. For the average person, standard hydration needs can be met with tap water.
Conclusion: More Than Just Repackaged Tap Water
In short, Essentia Water is not simply tap water. It is tap water that has undergone a rigorous, multi-step process to strip it of impurities and then re-mineralize and ionize it to achieve its signature alkaline and smooth-tasting profile. The journey from municipal source to bottled product is what sets it apart. The higher price is a reflection of this process and the marketing that surrounds it, which promotes a different hydration experience than what is available from the tap. Whether this processed alkaline water is worth the premium cost over purified or filtered tap water is ultimately a personal decision for each consumer based on their budget and preference. For more information on their process, you can refer to the official Essentia Water FAQ page.
