What's the Difference Between Great Value Spring and Purified Water?
Understanding the distinction between Great Value's spring and purified water starts with their fundamental definitions. Spring water is sourced from a natural underground aquifer where water flows to the Earth's surface. It is minimally processed to maintain its natural mineral composition. In contrast, purified water begins from a source like tap water and is treated to remove nearly all dissolved solids and contaminants. The core difference lies in the water's origin and the extent of its filtration. For Great Value, this means the 'Spring Water' comes from specific, protected springs, while the 'Purified Drinking Water' undergoes a rigorous, mechanical cleaning process.
The Source and Its Impact
The source of water plays a critical role in its final characteristics. Great Value's Spring Water is collected from natural springs, which can vary depending on your location. For example, some reports indicate sources in places like Louisiana and Maryland, bottled near the source to preserve the natural mineral profile. These minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, are absorbed as the water travels through underground rock and soil. This natural filtration gives spring water its distinctive, and often preferred, taste.
On the other hand, Great Value's Purified Drinking Water is not tied to a single natural spring. It can be sourced from various locations, including local municipal water supplies. For example, in some regions, it has been sourced from municipal supplies in California and processed elsewhere. The starting point is not as important for purified water because the subsequent filtration steps are designed to strip the water of virtually everything, including its mineral content and potential contaminants.
Processing and Purity
The processing methods are where the products diverge the most. Great Value Spring Water undergoes a process that may include micron filtration and ozonation to ensure safety, but it is designed to preserve the water's natural properties. The goal is to deliver water that is as close to its natural state as possible while meeting all safety regulations.
Conversely, Great Value Purified Drinking Water goes through a much more intensive, multi-stage process. The most common method is reverse osmosis, which pushes the water through a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved solids and impurities. Ultraviolet (UV) sanitization is also frequently used to kill any remaining bacteria. Some of these processes are so effective they strip the water of its natural minerals, leaving it with a 'neutral' or sometimes 'flat' taste. In many cases, minerals like calcium chloride and sodium bicarbonate are then added back to enhance the flavor.
Comparing Spring Water vs. Purified Water
| Feature | Great Value Spring Water | Great Value Purified Water |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Natural underground springs or aquifers. | Can be from any source, including municipal tap water. |
| Processing | Minimal filtration (e.g., ozonation) to preserve natural minerals. | Intensive, multi-stage filtration like reverse osmosis and UV sanitization. |
| Mineral Content | Naturally contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. | Has minerals removed during purification; some are re-added for taste. |
| Taste Profile | Crisp and refreshing, with a distinct flavor profile influenced by its source. | Neutral, clean, and consistent taste due to removal and re-addition of minerals. |
| Purity | Safe and regulated, but may contain natural trace elements. | Ultra-pure, with nearly all dissolved solids and contaminants removed. |
| Typical Use | For those who prefer a natural, mineral-rich taste. | For those who prioritize purity and consistency, or for specific uses like baby formula. |
Making the Right Choice for Your Hydration
Ultimately, deciding between Great Value's spring and purified water comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you prefer a water that is minimally processed with a unique flavor profile influenced by natural minerals, the spring water is your choice. The specific taste can vary subtly based on the bottling location. If your primary goal is the highest level of purity and consistency, with a neutral taste profile, then the purified water is the way to go. Both products are safe to drink and meet or exceed FDA standards.
- For the Flavor Connoisseur: The minerals in spring water provide a richer, more complex taste. This can be a pleasant experience for those who notice subtle differences in water quality.
- For the Purity Advocate: The rigorous reverse osmosis process used for purified water ensures maximum contaminant removal. This is particularly reassuring for those in areas with concerns about local water quality or for sensitive applications like baby formula.
- For the Budget-Conscious: Generally, purified water is slightly less expensive than spring water, reflecting the cost of sourcing vs. the cost of intensive processing. However, Great Value positions both as affordable options.
While the source for Great Value's spring water changes regionally, quality standards remain consistent across the brand's offerings. The key takeaway is to read the label. Walmart provides a water quality report on its corporate website, confirming both types of water are regularly tested to ensure they are safe and comply with all regulations. For more detailed information, consider checking Walmart's official site.
Conclusion
In short, not all Great Value bottled water is spring water. While the company offers a distinct spring water product, it also sells purified drinking water. The primary difference lies in the source and processing. Great Value Spring Water is naturally sourced and minimally filtered, retaining its mineral content and unique taste. Great Value Purified Drinking Water can come from various sources and undergoes a mechanical purification process, such as reverse osmosis, to achieve a high level of purity and a neutral flavor. Both are safe, regulated, and affordable options. Your final choice should be based on your personal preference for taste and your priority for natural mineral content versus maximum processed purity. Reading the label and understanding these differences will help you decide which is the right bottled water for you.
