Aquafina's Purification Process Explained
Aquafina does not contain sodium bicarbonate because it is classified as a purified drinking water, not a mineral or enhanced water. The source water, which originates from public municipal supplies, undergoes a rigorous multi-step filtration process known as HydRO-7. This advanced system is specifically engineered to remove substances that affect the water's taste and purity. By stripping the water of these dissolved solids, the final product is left with a very low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) content, averaging around 4 parts per million, which is significantly lower than the FDA's standard for purified water.
The Role of Reverse Osmosis
A crucial step in the HydRO-7 process is reverse osmosis (RO). RO uses semi-permeable membranes with incredibly small pores to force water through, trapping nearly all dissolved solids and ions. This includes compounds like sodium bicarbonate, chlorides, sulfates, calcium, and magnesium. While some bottled water companies add a proprietary blend of minerals back into their product for flavor, Aquafina's parent company, PepsiCo, explicitly states that they do not add anything to their purified water. The result is a clean, crisp, and consistent taste profile that many consumers have come to expect from the brand.
Comparison: Aquafina vs. Other Water Types
To better understand Aquafina's composition, it is helpful to compare it to other common types of bottled water. The key difference lies in the source and the processing methods, which directly impact the mineral content.
| Feature | Aquafina (Purified Water) | Mineral Water | Tap Water (Municipal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Public municipal water sources | Protected underground springs | Local municipal water system |
| Purification | Rigorous multi-step process (e.g., reverse osmosis, carbon filtration, UV) | Lightly processed, filtered for pathogens but retains natural minerals | Treated with disinfectants (e.g., chlorine) and filtered to meet safety standards |
| Sodium Bicarbonate | Removed during purification | Present naturally depending on the spring's mineral content | Varies significantly depending on the local water source |
| Mineral Content | Very low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | High in naturally occurring minerals (at least 250 ppm) | Variable depending on the region and source |
| Taste Profile | Clean, neutral, and consistent | Distinctive, influenced by natural minerals | Varies, can have a detectable chlorine or mineral taste |
The Purpose of Removing Minerals
Some consumers might wonder why a company would remove naturally occurring minerals. The primary reason for Aquafina is taste. By removing all trace compounds, including sodium and bicarbonates, the company can deliver a product with a consistently pure and clean flavor, regardless of the source. This is a deliberate brand choice that distinguishes it from spring water or other bottled waters that might reintroduce minerals. The mineral content found in water, particularly at the low levels in most bottled varieties, provides an insignificant portion of a person's overall dietary needs, which are predominantly met through food. For individuals on specific diets or those with sensitive kidneys, low-mineral water may also be a preferable choice.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to whether there is sodium bicarbonate in Aquafina water is a definitive no. The brand's identity is built on a high-tech purification process, HydRO-7, which purposefully strips the water of all dissolved solids, including sodium bicarbonate. This process, which utilizes reverse osmosis, ensures a pure and consistent taste profile for consumers. Unlike some other bottled waters that may add minerals back for flavor or alkalinity, Aquafina delivers a straightforward product—purified water with minimal dissolved solids. For those seeking naturally occurring minerals or alkalinity, alternative bottled water products sourced from springs are a better option. However, for those who prefer the clean, neutral taste of a highly purified water, Aquafina's mineral-free approach meets that demand.
For more information on their purification process, you can visit Aquafina's official website.(https://www.aquafina.com/en-US/faq.html).
Why Other Brands Use Sodium Bicarbonate
It is important to note that the presence of sodium bicarbonate in other bottled waters serves specific purposes. For some brands that use a purification method similar to Aquafina, they might add minerals back in to create a specific flavor profile or to increase the water's pH, making it more alkaline. For example, after reverse osmosis, water can have a slightly acidic pH and a flat taste. The addition of sodium bicarbonate can balance the pH and improve the taste. Naturally sourced mineral waters may also contain bicarbonates due to the geological sources they flow through.
