Sourcing and purification of Great Value water
Before minerals are added, the starting point for Great Value purified water is often a municipal tap water source, according to labels and reporting from various bottlers. Unlike spring water, which comes from an underground formation, purified water can come from any source and is treated to a high standard of purity. Major bottling partners, such as Niagara Bottling, often produce Great Value products and use their own processes to purify the municipal water.
The purification process involves several steps to remove impurities, chemicals, and unwanted minerals. Key purification methods include:
- Multimedia filtration: Removes larger particles and sediments.
- Carbon filtration: Eliminates chlorine and other organic compounds that can affect taste and odor.
- Reverse osmosis: A multi-stage filtration process that forces water through a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved solids and contaminants.
- Microfiltration: Further filters out microscopic particles and microorganisms.
- Ultraviolet (UV) light: Disinfects the water by killing bacteria and viruses.
- Ozonation: Injects ozone, a powerful disinfectant, to ensure microbial safety.
The role of added minerals
Once the water has been thoroughly purified, it is virtually stripped of all minerals, resulting in a flat or lifeless taste. To address this, the manufacturer adds a blend of minerals back into the water for a crisper, more appealing flavor profile. The two primary minerals added are calcium chloride and sodium bicarbonate.
Calcium Chloride
Calcium chloride, or E509, is a mineral salt used to enhance taste and act as a firming agent in some food applications. In purified water, it primarily serves to provide a pleasant mouthfeel and taste. The amount is very small and does not contribute significantly to daily calcium intake.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda or E500ii, is added in very small quantities. It acts as a buffering agent, helping to balance the pH and provide a clean, refreshing taste. Similar to calcium chloride, the amount of sodium added is minimal and contributes zero grams of sodium per serving.
Comparison: Purified vs. Spring Water
It's important to distinguish between Great Value's purified water and its spring water. While the purified version is sourced from municipal water and enhanced with minerals, the spring water comes from a natural underground source and is minimally processed, typically only with ozonation.
| Feature | Great Value Purified Water | Great Value Spring Water |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Municipal tap water | Underground spring |
| Purification | Extensive multi-step process (reverse osmosis, filtration) | Minimal processing (typically ozonation) |
| Additives | Calcium chloride, sodium bicarbonate for taste | None added for taste |
| Taste Profile | Clean, consistent, and neutral due to added minerals | Varies slightly based on the source's natural mineral composition |
| Mineral Content | Virtually none initially, re-mineralized for taste | Naturally occurring minerals from the spring source |
| Price | Generally lower | Generally slightly higher |
Potential health and environmental considerations
For most consumers, Great Value purified water is a safe and reliable option. The purification process is designed to meet or exceed FDA standards for safe drinking water, removing harmful contaminants. A 2022 report highlighted that even when sourced from troubled municipal supplies, like in Jackson, MS, the purification process ensures the bottled water's safety.
However, potential concerns include microplastics and the environmental impact of plastic bottles. Many brands, including those that bottle for Great Value like Niagara, produce BPA-free bottles. The environmental footprint of producing and transporting bottled water is still a significant factor for many environmentally conscious consumers.
Conclusion
In summary, what is in Great Value bottled water is more than just H₂O. It is purified tap water enhanced with a specific blend of minerals, calcium chloride and sodium bicarbonate, to create a consistent and appealing taste. The extensive purification process removes impurities, while the added minerals ensure it isn't completely flavorless. Consumers can choose the purified version for its reliable, neutral taste or opt for the spring water for a more natural mineral profile. The sourcing and bottling practices emphasize safety and value, but like all bottled water, it comes with a consideration of its environmental impact.
For more information on the safety standards governing bottled water in the United States, consumers can visit the official Food and Drug Administration website.
