The Three Simple Ingredients of Dash Water
At its core, Dash Water is a sparkling fruit water defined by a minimalist recipe. The brand prides itself on using only three simple ingredients, all of which contribute to its mission of creating a healthier, more sustainable beverage. The first ingredient is pure carbonated spring water, providing a crisp, clean base. Unlike some competitors who might use tap water, Dash sources high-quality spring water to ensure a refreshing taste. The second ingredient is the 'bubbles'—the carbonation that gives the water its signature fizz. The third and most unique ingredient is the infusion of real fruit and vegetable extracts.
The Role of 'Wonky' Fruit
Dash Water's claim to fame is its use of 'wonky' fruit and vegetables. These are fruits and vegetables that, due to minor cosmetic imperfections such as being twisted, crushed, or oversized, are rejected by supermarkets and would otherwise go to waste. Instead of ending up in a landfill, Dash repurposes this perfectly delicious produce to create its flavourful extracts. The brand uses extracts, not fruit juice, to infuse the water, which is a key distinction. Using extracts ensures that no natural sugars are added to the drink, maintaining a zero-sugar and zero-calorie profile.
The Infusion Process
The process of infusing the water with these natural fruit extracts is a careful one. Dash utilizes a six-hour infusion process to capture the essence of the fruit. This method ensures a delicate, subtle flavour rather than an overpowering sweetness. The result is a light and refreshing drink that showcases the natural taste of the fruit without relying on any artificial enhancers. A typical list of ingredients on a can, such as the lime flavour, would read: 'Carbonated spring water, natural flavourings, lime extracts, acid; citric acid'. The citric acid acts as an acidity regulator to balance the flavour profile.
Health and Environmental Benefits
Dash Water is designed to be a healthier alternative to traditional soft drinks. The absence of sugar, sweeteners, and calories is a major selling point for health-conscious consumers looking to reduce their sugar intake. Beyond the nutritional benefits, the brand is built on a strong foundation of sustainability. It is a Certified B Corporation, meaning it meets high standards of social and environmental performance. It is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint and uses fully recyclable aluminium cans for its packaging.
A Sustainable Mission
Dash Water's mission is deeply intertwined with its ingredients. By rescuing 'wonky' fruit, the company addresses the problem of food waste head-on. As a B Corp, the brand is legally required to consider the impact of its decisions on its workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. This commitment goes beyond just its product; it reflects a broader ethos of using business as a force for good. The use of aluminium cans further reinforces this commitment, as aluminium is one of the most recyclable materials available.
Dash Water vs. Sugary Soft Drinks
For those looking to move away from high-sugar fizzy drinks, Dash offers a compelling alternative. Below is a comparison of Dash Water's ingredients and nutritional content with a typical sugary soft drink.
| Feature | Dash Water | Typical Sugary Soft Drink |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | None (uses fruit extracts) | High Fructose Corn Syrup, Sugar, Artificial Sweeteners |
| Calories | 0-3 kcal per 100ml (negligible) | Significant calories (e.g., 40-50+ kcal per 100ml) |
| Sugar | Zero | High (e.g., 10-12g+ per 100ml) |
| Sourcing | Repurposed 'wonky' fruit and veg | Mass-produced ingredients |
| pH Level | Less acidic (e.g., 2.9-3.4) | More acidic (e.g., 2.4-2.7) |
| Additives | All-natural ingredients | Artificial flavours, colours, and preservatives |
Conclusion
In summary, what is Dash water made of? The answer is a simple, refreshing, and surprisingly impactful blend of carbonated spring water, natural bubbles, and real fruit extracts from 'wonky' produce. The brand's commitment to using otherwise wasted fruit, combined with its B Corp status and zero-sugar recipe, positions it as a delicious and ethical choice for anyone seeking a healthier fizzy drink. By choosing Dash Water, consumers can enjoy a tasty, refreshing beverage while supporting a brand dedicated to reducing food waste and making a positive environmental difference. To explore their product range and learn more about their mission, visit the official Dash Water website.
What are the Flavours of Dash Water?
Dash offers a wide variety of flavours infused with real fruit extracts. Popular options include:
- Lime
- Raspberry
- Grapefruit
- Blackcurrant
- Peach
- Mango
- Cucumber
- Lemon
Each flavour is created using the same simple recipe, ensuring a consistently light and natural taste profile across the range.
