Understanding the Different Types of Bottled Water
Navigating the bottled water aisle means encountering a variety of options, each with a distinct source and processing method. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed choice based on your nutritional and health goals.
Spring Water and Mineral Water
Spring water is sourced from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface. It is captured either at the surface or from a sanitary bore accessing the underground source. By definition, true mineral water contains at least 250 parts per million (ppm) of total dissolved solids (TDS), which are minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. These minerals must be present at the source, not added later. Because of its natural origin, spring water's mineral content varies by location, which also affects its taste and pH. Many brands, such as Fiji and Mountain Valley Spring Water, are lauded for their unique taste profile derived from their mineral-rich sources. However, the composition can fluctuate and is not always consistent across bottles of the same brand. For those seeking naturally occurring minerals to supplement their diet, mineral-rich spring waters are often considered a healthy option, with some like Gerolsteiner offering significant amounts of calcium and magnesium.
Purified and Reverse Osmosis Water
Purified water comes from a protected underground or municipal drinking water source and undergoes a process to remove impurities and dissolved solids. Reverse osmosis (RO) is one of the most common purification methods, which forces water through a semi-permeable membrane to filter out salts, heavy metals, and contaminants. The benefit is exceptionally clean water with a very low TDS count, often less than 10 ppm. Brands like Aquafina and Dasani are examples of purified water, with some companies adding electrolytes back in for taste. While very pure, this process also removes potentially beneficial minerals. Purified water is an excellent option for those in areas with poor-tasting or questionable tap water, but it provides little to no nutritional mineral content.
Alkaline and Ionized Water
Alkaline water has a higher pH level, typically above 8, compared to the neutral pH of 7 found in most drinking water. Proponents claim it can help neutralize body acidity and provide antioxidant benefits, although scientific evidence for these claims is limited and more research is needed. The higher pH is often achieved by adding alkaline minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, or through an electrical ionization process. Essentia is a popular alkaline brand known for its high pH and added electrolytes. While generally safe, some experts suggest that consuming highly alkaline water may disrupt the body's natural pH balance. Your kidneys and liver already do a great job of maintaining your body's pH, so added benefits are questionable.
Distilled Water
Distilled water is created by boiling water into vapor and then condensing it back into a liquid. This process leaves behind all minerals and impurities, resulting in pure H₂O with a flat taste. Due to the complete removal of minerals, it is not recommended for long-term daily consumption as it can potentially leach minerals from the body. It is best used for specific applications like medical equipment or home appliances.
What to Look for in a Bottled Water
When deciding on the best bottled water, consider these key factors beyond simple marketing:
- Mineral Content (TDS): Total Dissolved Solids indicate the level of minerals in the water. Low TDS (under 50 ppm) is pure but mineral-free, while high TDS (over 250 ppm) indicates mineral water rich in compounds that can affect taste and potentially contribute to your mineral intake. A balance is often preferred, though a very low TDS is ideal for those seeking pure H₂O without flavor interference.
- pH Level: The pH scale measures acidity and alkalinity. Natural spring waters tend to be slightly alkaline (pH > 7), while most purified and tap waters are neutral. Although alkaline water is heavily marketed, there is limited evidence that it is significantly healthier than regular water.
- Source and Purity: Checking the source on the label provides insight into the water's natural properties. Knowing the purification method, like reverse osmosis or UV light treatment, ensures impurities are addressed. Most commercially available bottled water is safe, but tap water is often more stringently and frequently tested.
- Packaging: Beyond the taste of the water, the packaging impacts the environment and can affect the water itself. Plastic bottles, particularly when exposed to heat, can potentially leach microplastics and chemicals like phthalates into the water. Alternatives like glass or aluminum, such as those used by brands like Mountain Valley and Liquid Death, are more sustainable and prevent chemical leaching.
Top Bottled Water Brands Comparison Table
| Brand | Water Type | Source | pH | TDS (ppm) | Packaging | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Valley | Spring | Ouachita Mountains, AR | Naturally Balanced | Rich | Glass, Recycled Plastic | Praised for taste; comes in environmentally-friendly glass. |
| Fiji | Artesian | Viti Levu, Fiji | Naturally Alkaline | 131 | Plastic | Known for smooth taste; contains silica. |
| Essentia | Purified, Alkaline | Municipal Source | 9.5+ (Ionized) | Added Electrolytes | Phthalate-free Plastic | Promoted for athletes; added electrolytes improve taste. |
| Liquid Death | Mountain Spring | Austrian Alps | 8.0+ | Varies | Recyclable Aluminum Cans | Canned water with punk rock branding; eco-friendly packaging. |
| Acqua Panna | Spring | Tuscany, Italy | Naturally Alkaline | 150 | Plastic | Soft, velvety taste; often served in fine dining. |
| Smartwater | Purified | Municipal Source | 6.5 (Electrolyte added) | 25 | Plastic | Vapor distilled with added electrolytes for taste. |
| Icelandic Glacial | Spring | Ölfus Spring, Iceland | Naturally Alkaline | 52 | Plastic, Glass | Certified carbon neutral; naturally high pH. |
| Aquafina | Purified | Municipal Source | 6.5 | Low (~1) | Plastic | Reverse osmosis filtered for purity; very low mineral content. |
Weighing Taste vs. Health vs. Environment
Ultimately, the 'best' bottled water is a personal decision that requires balancing several factors. For those prioritizing natural mineral intake and a specific taste, spring and mineral waters like Mountain Valley or Fiji are excellent choices. If purity is the main concern, especially if your local tap water is subpar, purified or RO water provides a clean slate. For those interested in the potential—though unproven—benefits of higher pH, alkaline waters are an option. However, if environmental impact is a top priority, opting for brands with glass, aluminum, or recycled plastic packaging, or even using a high-quality home filtration system, is the most responsible choice. Remember, the simplest and most sustainable option is often filtered tap water, which is highly regulated and costs far less in the long run. Filters like Brita can produce water comparable in purity to bottled options, at a fraction of the cost.
The Final Verdict on Choosing Your Water
There is no single answer to what is the best bottled water, as it depends entirely on your needs and values. Prioritizing mineral content might lead you toward a spring water from a specific region, while prioritizing purity will lead you to a purified or RO product. Meanwhile, a desire for environmental responsibility should lead you toward sustainable packaging or simply investing in a reliable home water filter. For many, a balance of taste, convenience, and health-consciousness guides their purchase. It is wise to consider that all potable water ultimately provides hydration, and for most people, the differences in health benefits between safe tap water and bottled water are negligible.
Conclusion
Making an informed decision about bottled water involves looking beyond marketing claims and understanding the source, treatment, and packaging. While some premium brands offer a distinctive taste and natural mineral profile, others focus on achieving maximum purity through rigorous filtration. Your personal 'best' option will depend on your priorities, whether they are taste, health, or environmental impact. When in doubt, a reputable spring water in a glass bottle offers a natural, mineral-rich option, while a simple home filtration system remains the most economical and eco-friendly choice for consistent hydration.
