Understanding Fluoride in Bottled Water
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water sources around the world. It is also added to public drinking water supplies in many areas to help prevent tooth decay. When it comes to bottled water, the presence and concentration of fluoride can vary significantly, depending on the source of the water and the treatment process it undergoes. Bottlers are not always required to list fluoride content on their labels, making it a challenge for consumers to know exactly what they are drinking. This guide breaks down the different types of bottled water and which brands are most likely to contain fluoride.
Bottled Water Brands With Added Fluoride
Some bottled water companies specifically add fluoride to their products, often marketing them toward families and children for dental health benefits. These products are required by the FDA to be labeled clearly with terms like “fluoridated” or “fluoride added”. While a specific, up-to-date list can be difficult to maintain, some companies, like those under the Primo Water Corporation umbrella (formerly known as DS Services of America), offer fluoridated options. For instance, brands like Crystal Springs, Hinckley Springs, and Sierra Springs may have fluoridated versions available, especially for home and office delivery. It is always best to check the bottle's label or the company's website for confirmation. Arrowhead also notes that it offers both fluoridated and non-fluoridated water options.
Spring and Mineral Water Brands with Natural Fluoride
Natural spring and mineral waters can contain fluoride due to the geological sources they originate from. The concentration varies widely based on the specific spring. Examples of brands that may contain naturally occurring fluoride include:
- Volvic: Sourced from the volcanic Auvergne region in France, Volvic naturally contains fluoride along with other minerals.
- Perrier: Sourced from a spring in a volcanic region of France, Perrier is another brand known to contain natural fluoride.
- Evian: This French spring water contains naturally occurring electrolytes and minerals, including fluoride.
- Deer Park: Depending on the specific spring source, this brand can contain varying levels of naturally occurring fluoride.
- Ice Mountain: Sourced from springs in the Midwest, this brand also carries naturally occurring minerals, including fluoride.
Purified and Distilled Water Brands with Little or No Fluoride
Purified and distilled bottled waters undergo rigorous filtration processes that effectively remove minerals, including fluoride. Brands that use methods like reverse osmosis or distillation will generally have little to no fluoride content unless it is added back in later. This is a crucial distinction for consumers seeking to avoid fluoride. Prominent brands in this category include:
- Aquafina: Owned by PepsiCo, this water is purified through reverse osmosis and filtration.
- Dasani: A Coca-Cola brand, Dasani also uses reverse osmosis filtration.
- Glaceau Smartwater: This brand uses vapor distillation, which removes virtually all dissolved solids.
- Essentia Water: Known for its high alkalinity, Essentia uses a proprietary process that removes fluoride.
Comparison of Bottled Water Brands and Their Fluoride Content
| Feature | Brands with Added Fluoride | Spring/Mineral Water (Natural Fluoride) | Purified/Distilled Water (Low/No Fluoride) | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Municipal water treated and enhanced. | Natural springs and aquifers. | Municipal or well water treated through purification. | 
| Fluoride Content | Intentional levels, often for dental health. | Varies widely based on geological source. | Near zero, as removed during processing. | 
| Labeling | Explicitly labeled as “fluoridated” or similar. | May or may not list specific mineral content. | Not specified, as fluoride is not an ingredient. | 
| Typical Brands | Dannon Fluoride to Go, some Primo brands (Crystal Springs, Ozarka Fluoridated). | Evian, Perrier, Volvic, Deer Park. | Aquafina, Dasani, Glaceau Smartwater. | 
| Consumer Intention | Consumers seeking specific dental health benefits. | Consumers prioritizing natural mineral profiles. | Consumers seeking minimal mineral content or avoiding fluoride. | 
How to Verify Fluoride Content
Since labeling for fluoride content is not consistent across the industry for brands that don't add it intentionally, it can be challenging to determine. To get the most accurate information, consumers should:
- Check the Label: Look for specific terms like “fluoridated” or “fluoride added”. These are the most reliable indicators of intentional addition.
- Consult Water Quality Reports: Many bottled water companies publish annual water quality reports on their websites, which detail the mineral composition, including fluoride levels.
- Contact the Manufacturer: Reaching out directly to the company via their customer service line or email is another way to get specific data on a product's fluoride content.
- Review Third-Party Lab Tests: Independent organizations sometimes test bottled water for mineral and contaminant levels, and their reports can offer valuable insights.
Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, the choice of bottled water depends on individual health goals. For those looking to supplement their fluoride intake, choosing a clearly labeled fluoridated brand is the most straightforward option. If avoiding fluoride is the priority, opting for brands purified via reverse osmosis or distillation is the best course of action. Those who prefer a natural mineral profile in their water should be aware that many spring and mineral waters will contain some level of naturally occurring fluoride. The key is to research the specific brand and read the label carefully to ensure it aligns with your preferences.
Conclusion
It is clear that not all bottled water is created equal when it comes to fluoride content. Brands like Dannon Fluoride to Go and specific lines from Primo Water intentionally add fluoride for dental health benefits. In contrast, natural mineral waters such as Evian and Volvic contain naturally occurring fluoride, with levels dependent on their geological source. Meanwhile, purified and distilled brands like Aquafina and Dasani use filtration methods that effectively remove fluoride, making them a suitable choice for those seeking to limit their intake. Consumers should make a habit of checking product labels and company water quality reports to confirm the fluoride concentration of their chosen brand.
Bottled Water: The Healthy Choice is a useful resource for understanding the industry's perspective on fluoride.