What Makes Bottled Water 'The Best'?
Defining the 'best' bottled water is highly subjective, as it depends on individual priorities such as taste, mineral content, processing, environmental impact, and cost. While some people prefer the clean, neutral taste of purified water, others seek the distinct mineral profiles of natural spring or mineral waters. High-end brands may boast exotic sources and natural alkalinity, while budget-friendly options focus on accessibility and basic hydration. The choice often comes down to balancing these factors to find what best suits your personal needs and preferences.
The Main Types of Bottled Water
Understanding the different categories of bottled water is the first step in finding your ideal choice. Each type is processed differently and offers a unique profile.
- Mineral Water: Originating from protected underground sources, mineral water contains a high concentration of naturally occurring minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It must be bottled directly at the source and cannot be treated with disinfectant. Brands such as Fiji, Evian, and Acqua Panna are popular examples, each with a distinct taste shaped by its unique mineral composition and geological source.
- Spring Water: Sourced from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface, spring water is also celebrated for its purity and taste. Unlike mineral water, its mineral content is not consistently regulated, and it can undergo limited treatment. Brands like Mountain Valley Spring Water draw from specific, often historic, sources and are known for their naturally balanced pH and clean taste.
- Purified Water: This category includes water from municipal, well, or spring sources that has been processed to remove chemicals, contaminants, and dissolved solids. Common purification methods include reverse osmosis, distillation, and deionization. Minerals may be added back for a consistent taste profile. Aquafina and Dasani are well-known examples of purified waters.
- Alkaline Water: Alkaline water has a higher pH level than standard drinking water and is often ionized or infused with minerals to achieve this. Proponents suggest it can help neutralize acidity in the body, although experts still debate the long-term health benefits. Brands like Essentia and Icelandic Glacial are popular alkaline choices, the latter drawing its natural alkalinity from filtering through lava rock.
- Artesian Water: Drawn from a confined underground aquifer, artesian water is kept under positive pressure. It boasts a consistent quality and taste, often acquiring a unique regional character depending on its source.
Factors Influencing Your Choice
When searching for what is the best bottled water to drink in the world, consider these key criteria:
- Source: Where does the water come from? A pristine mountain spring, an ancient aquifer, or a municipal source? The source significantly impacts the water's mineral content and overall flavor profile.
- Mineral Content (TDS): Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) refers to the concentration of minerals in the water. High TDS waters like many mineral brands offer distinct flavors and potential health benefits from minerals like calcium and magnesium, while low TDS waters offer a cleaner, less complex taste.
- pH Level: Water can be acidic, neutral, or alkaline. The pH level can affect the taste and, for some consumers, is a key health consideration. Naturally alkaline waters, like Icelandic Glacial, gain their higher pH from natural filtration processes.
- Taste Profile: Water sommeliers can describe complex notes in water, but for most people, it comes down to preference. Factors like mineral composition, source, and processing methods all contribute to a water's unique mouthfeel and flavor.
- Environmental Impact: The carbon footprint of transporting water and the packaging materials are significant concerns. Options like canned water from Liquid Death or bottled water in recycled materials from ZenWTR address these issues.
Bottled Water Comparison Table
| Brand | Type | Source | Key Minerals/pH | Taste Profile | Sourcing/Packaging Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiji | Artesian Spring | Viti Levu, Fiji Islands | Naturally high pH (7.7), silica, magnesium, calcium | Smooth, soft mouthfeel, subtly sweet | Naturally filtered through volcanic rock; packaged and shipped globally |
| Evian | Natural Spring | French Alps | High in calcium (83mg/L), magnesium (27mg/L), pH 8.0 tested | Distinctive, thicker mouthfeel due to minerals | From protected underground source; can sit for months before reaching consumer |
| Essentia | Purified Alkaline | Municipal Sources | Ionized, pH 9.5+, added electrolytes | Clean, smooth taste with no aftertaste | Undergoes microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ionization |
| Icelandic Glacial | Glacial Spring | Ölfus Spring, Iceland | Naturally alkaline pH (8.4), low mineral content | Clean, smooth, and crisp taste | Filtered through lava rock; certified carbon neutral |
| Mountain Valley | Spring | Ouachita Mountains, USA | Naturally balanced pH, rich in minerals | Clean, crisp, and refreshing | Packaged in glass bottles to preserve purity and taste |
| Aquafina | Purified | Municipal Sources | Very low TDS (tested at 1ppm), mildly acidic | Crisp, clean, and fresh | Purified by reverse osmosis |
How to Choose the Right Water for You
With so many variables, the "best" water is a personal decision. Start by defining your priorities. If you value a complex, mineral-rich flavor, exploring natural mineral or spring waters is a good starting point. For those prioritizing absolute purity and a clean taste, purified options are ideal. Athletes or individuals focused on balancing acidity might gravitate towards alkaline water. When making your choice, remember that while bottled water can offer specific mineral profiles, a healthy diet provides far more essential minerals.
Beyond personal health, consider the environmental impact. The significant carbon footprint of shipping water and the issue of plastic waste are real concerns. Supporting brands with sustainable packaging or sourcing locally can help mitigate this. Ultimately, both tap water (if safe and filtered) and bottled water meet strict safety standards, so the choice comes down to personal taste and values.
Conclusion
There is no single answer to what is the best bottled water to drink in the world. The ideal choice is a blend of personal taste, health priorities, and ethical considerations. High-end mineral waters offer a unique flavor experience and natural minerals, while purified and alkaline options provide specific health propositions. For most, taste and convenience drive the purchase decision. However, being an informed consumer means considering the source, processing, and environmental footprint of your bottled water. By evaluating the different types and brands, you can find the perfect bottle that satisfies your taste and aligns with your health and environmental goals. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Recommended Bottled Waters for Different Needs
- For Taste Enthusiasts: Acqua Panna or Fiji for smooth, distinct mineral profiles.
- For Alkaline Seekers: Essentia for its high pH and added electrolytes, or Icelandic Glacial for natural alkalinity.
- For Environmental Concerns: Path Water (in refillable aluminum) or Boxed Water (carton packaging) offer sustainable alternatives.
- For Hydration/Fitness: Purified waters with added electrolytes, such as Essentia or Smartwater, are marketed to active consumers.
- For Budget-Friendly Options: Poland Spring (in some regions) or purified store brands offer accessible choices.
Choosing the best option means matching a water's characteristics to your own criteria, whether it's for superior taste, health benefits, or environmental consciousness.
