What are the safe brands of sparkling water?

According to a 2020 Consumer Reports study, several popular sparkling water brands were found to contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This revelation has led many consumers to question: what are the safe brands of sparkling water? This guide provides an in-depth look at brands that prioritize water purity and safety.

Quick Summary

Several sparkling water brands offer a safe and clean drinking experience, with some reporting zero or minimal levels of PFAS 'forever chemicals' and opting for BPA-free packaging. Consumer safety is a priority for companies using reverse osmosis filtration, natural flavorings, and transparent testing practices. Key indicators of a safe choice include low-to-no detectable PFAS levels, clean sourcing, and eco-friendly containers.

Key Points

• PFAS Concern: Many popular sparkling waters were once found to contain potentially harmful PFAS 'forever chemicals,' prompting consumers to seek safer brands.

• Low PFAS Options: Several brands, including Mountain Valley, Sound, and Nixie, report non-detectable or extremely low levels of PFAS, with Mountain Valley often having a non-detectable status.

• Packaging Matters: Choosing glass bottles or BPA-free aluminum cans (like those from LaCroix or Proud Source) can help avoid potential contaminants from packaging materials.

• Prioritize Transparency: The safest brands are transparent about their sourcing, filtration methods (like reverse osmosis), and provide public test results for contaminants like PFAS.

• Real Ingredients: Brands like Spindrift use real fruit juice for flavoring, offering a healthier alternative to brands that rely on artificial flavors or essences.

• Home Carbonation: For complete control over your water's purity, a home carbonation system paired with a certified water filter is a reliable option.

Understanding Contaminants in Your Sparkling Water

Recent years have brought to light concerns about the quality of many bottled and canned beverages, including sparkling water. The primary issue revolves around per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of man-made chemicals known as "forever chemicals" because they do not break down over time. These contaminants have been linked to potential health issues, making their presence in consumer products a significant worry. While some companies have made strides to reduce PFAS levels since initial reports, it is essential for consumers to stay informed and choose brands committed to purity. Beyond chemical contamination, consumers also consider factors like BPA in can linings and the use of natural versus artificial ingredients. By focusing on brands that use stringent filtration methods, source from clean springs, and maintain transparency, you can make an informed decision for your health.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Safe Sparkling Water

Choosing a safe sparkling water goes beyond a simple brand name. Consider these important factors:

• PFAS Levels: Look for brands that publicly test their products and report non-detectable or very low levels of PFAS (below 1 part per trillion).
• Source Water: Naturally sourced mineral waters from protected springs are often a reliable choice, though testing is still necessary.
• Filtration Method: Some brands use reverse osmosis filtration, an effective method for removing many contaminants, including PFAS.
• Packaging: The packaging can also be a source of concern. Opt for glass bottles or aluminum cans that are explicitly labeled as BPA-free.
• Ingredients: Plain sparkling water with just carbonation and water is the cleanest option. For flavored varieties, check that they use real fruit extracts or juices rather than artificial flavors or sweeteners.
• Brand Transparency: A company that willingly shares its testing results and filtration methods demonstrates a commitment to consumer safety.

Top-Rated Brands for Clean and Safe Sparkling Water

Based on independent testing and transparent practices, several brands stand out for their commitment to safety and purity:

• Mountain Valley Sparkling Water: This brand has consistently reported non-detectable levels of PFAS and is known for its pure, clean spring water sourced from the Ouachita Mountains.
• Sound: Another brand that uses reverse osmosis and proudly reports zero detectable PFAS chemicals, along with using certified organic ingredients.
• Nixie Sparkling Water: Made with reverse osmosis filtered water and USDA organic ingredients, Nixie focuses on clean ingredients and sourcing.
• Spindrift: While containing low levels of PFAS (0.19 ppt), it's below the 1 ppt threshold often cited as safe and stands out for using real fruit juice for flavor.
• Waterloo Sparkling Water: Known for bold flavors without sweeteners, Waterloo uses ultra-filtered water and often reports non-detectable PFAS levels.
• Aura Bora: This brand uses reverse osmosis filtration and packages its botanical-flavored waters in recyclable aluminum cans.

How Safe Sparkling Water Brands Compare

Brand	PFAS Levels	Filtration	Flavoring	Packaging	Notable Feature
Mountain Valley	Non-detectable	Natural Spring	Unflavored	Glass	Consistently pure spring water from a protected source.
Sound	Non-detectable	Reverse Osmosis	Organic Extracts	Cans	Reports zero PFAS and uses organic ingredients.
Nixie	Non-detectable	Reverse Osmosis	Organic Extracts	Cans	USDA organic and uses clean filtration.
Spindrift	<0.19 ppt	Varies	Real Fruit Juice	Cans	Flavored with real fruit, not essences.
Waterloo	Low/Non-detectable	Ultra-filtered	Natural Essences	Cans	Bold flavors without added sweeteners.
Aura Bora	Non-detectable	Reverse Osmosis	Botanical Extracts	Cans	Unique botanical flavors and RO filtered water.

The Importance of Avoiding "Forever Chemicals" and Other Additives

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of thousands of synthetic chemicals used in various consumer products, from non-stick cookware to food packaging. Their persistence in the environment and the human body is a major concern, with health risks including potential links to certain cancers, immune system suppression, and developmental issues. By choosing brands that actively test for and minimize PFAS contamination, you are making a proactive choice for your long-term health. Similarly, being aware of additives is crucial. Some sparkling waters use artificial sweeteners or undisclosed "natural flavors" which can be a source of concern for those with sensitivities or who are managing specific health conditions. For the purest option, always check the ingredients list. Some brands like Spindrift use a splash of real fruit, while others use fruit essences. Plain seltzer water with no additives is often the safest bet, especially if using a home carbonation machine with a certified filter.

Conclusion

Choosing a safe brand of sparkling water is a simple yet impactful way to prioritize your health. While the discovery of PFAS in popular brands raised alarm, it has also spurred greater transparency from many manufacturers. Brands like Mountain Valley, Sound, Nixie, and Waterloo offer excellent, low-to-no PFAS options, often combining clean sourcing with effective filtration methods. Ultimately, the safest sparkling water comes from informed consumer choices, favoring brands that are transparent about their sourcing, filtration, and ingredients, and actively addressing contamination concerns. Always read labels, seek out brands with a track record of safety, and consider at-home carbonation for maximum control over your water quality. The bubbling bliss of a cold sparkling water can be enjoyed with confidence when you know what to look for. For more information on environmental contaminants in food and beverages, you can visit the Environmental Working Group's website. [Link to EWG not needed unless specific citation found].

Further Considerations

• Home Carbonation: For the ultimate control, use a home carbonation system like a SodaStream with filtered water.
• Packaging Matters: Choose glass bottles or BPA-free cans to avoid potential chemical leaching from plastics or can liners.
• Read the Fine Print: Don't be fooled by marketing. Always check the ingredients list for added sugars, artificial flavors, and sodium content.
• Support Transparency: Patronize brands that are open about their testing and commitment to reducing contaminants.
• Mineral Content: If you prefer mineral water, look for brands like San Pellegrino or Gerolsteiner, but be mindful of their specific PFAS levels, which may vary.

Conclusion (reprise)

Making an informed choice about your sparkling water is the best way to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The market offers many excellent options that are committed to purity and transparency. By prioritizing brands that minimize or eliminate contaminants like PFAS and avoid unnecessary additives, you can quench your thirst with confidence. Always review the latest consumer reports and brand information, as product quality can evolve. Enjoy your bubbles, knowing they are clean and healthy.

Final Summary

For safe sparkling water, opt for brands with low-to-no PFAS levels, like Mountain Valley, Sound, Nixie, and Waterloo. Choose options with real fruit flavoring (Spindrift) or no additives for the cleanest drink. Look for BPA-free cans or glass bottles and consider home carbonation systems with filtered water for ultimate control. Always read labels for transparency on sourcing and ingredients, avoiding artificial sweeteners and undisclosed flavors. Informed choices ensure a healthy, refreshing sparkling water experience.

Further Resources

For the latest information on sparkling water safety and brand testing, consult reputable sources like Consumer Reports or the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website. Staying up-to-date is the best defense against contaminants and ensures you are making the healthiest choice for yourself and your family. Remember that the cleanest ingredients and processes are often the safest, making brands that use organic or natural sources, and employ rigorous filtration, your best bet for a safe and refreshing bubbly beverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PFAS and why is it a concern in sparkling water?

PFAS are a class of persistent, man-made chemicals that can be found in some sparkling waters, as reported by consumer studies. They have been linked to health problems, leading health-conscious consumers to seek brands with low or no PFAS levels.

Are all flavored sparkling waters unhealthy?

Not necessarily. The healthiest flavored sparkling waters are those that use real fruit juice or natural extracts for flavoring, like Spindrift. Brands with artificial sweeteners or vague 'natural flavors' should be examined more closely.

What is the safest way to get sparkling water at home?

Using a home carbonation system like a SodaStream is often the safest option. By using filtered tap water, you can control the source and purity of your water before carbonating it.

Is sparkling water bad for your teeth?

Plain, unflavored sparkling water is minimally acidic and generally not harmful to teeth. However, flavored varieties that contain citric acid can potentially erode tooth enamel over time, especially with frequent consumption.

How can I tell if a can is BPA-free?

Many brands will explicitly state if their cans are lined with BPA-free materials on their packaging or website. Brands like LaCroix are known to use BPA-free liners.

Do naturally carbonated mineral waters always have low PFAS?

Not always. While some naturally sourced mineral waters are very clean, others can still contain contaminants from the environment. Checking recent independent testing reports is the most reliable way to know a brand's PFAS status.

What are some popular sparkling water brands that have had PFAS concerns?

In past reports, brands like Topo Chico, Polar, and Perrier have been listed with detectable PFAS levels, though some companies have taken steps to reduce them since the reports were published.