Defining a Healthy Seltzer
When navigating the crowded seltzer aisle, it's crucial to understand what makes a brand genuinely healthy. The core criteria go beyond simply having zero calories and involve scrutinizing the source and additives.
- No Added Sugar or Artificial Sweeteners: The healthiest options contain zero grams of sugar. Avoid brands with artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose, which can be linked to other health concerns and often alter gut health.
- Pure and Simple Ingredients: The most wholesome seltzers use simple, natural flavorings. Brands like Spindrift use a splash of real fruit juice, while others use naturally extracted fruit essences and oils. A simpler ingredient list is almost always better.
- Low or No Sodium: Unlike club soda, which often has added sodium for taste, pure seltzer water and most sparkling mineral waters are low in sodium. Check the label, especially if monitoring your sodium intake is a priority.
- PFAS-Free or Low-PFAS Content: Recent reports have raised concerns about Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), or "forever chemicals," found in some brands. Choosing brands with low or undetectable levels of these contaminants is a key component of a healthy choice.
Top Contenders for the Healthiest Seltzer
Based on these criteria and recent findings, several brands stand out as healthy choices for different preferences.
Spindrift
Praised for its transparency and use of real fruit, Spindrift is often cited as a top contender. Its flavored options get their taste and a hint of color from a small amount of real fruit juice, not synthetic flavorings or concentrates. This offers a more authentic, less artificial taste profile.
Waterloo
For those who prefer a zero-sugar, no-juice option with bold, natural flavor, Waterloo is a dietitian favorite. It uses naturally extracted fruit essences and oils to deliver a flavorful and aromatic experience without any added sweeteners. The brand also tested clean for PFAS in recent reports.
Mountain Valley
This sparkling mineral water is a premium, naturally sourced option. It comes from a protected spring and is naturally effervescent, providing a clean taste with balanced, naturally occurring minerals. Importantly, Mountain Valley has been reported to be free of PFAS.
Sound
Offering adventurous, botanical, and tea-infused flavors, Sound provides a unique and healthy seltzer experience. The brand is known for its high-quality ingredients and tested with no detectable levels of PFAS.
Seltzers to Approach with Caution
While many seltzers are fine in moderation, some brands have been linked to higher levels of PFAS, and others may contain ingredients worth noting.
- PFAS-Related Concerns: Some widely popular brands have tested with PFAS levels above the recommended threshold, including Topo Chico, Polar, and LaCroix. This does not mean they are unsafe for consumption, but it is a factor for health-conscious consumers to consider.
- Club Soda: While also fizzy, club soda typically contains added minerals like sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate, resulting in a saltier taste. It's best for cocktails rather than for daily, pure hydration.
Comparison of Healthy Seltzer Brands
| Brand | Flavor Source | Added Sugar | Artificial Sweeteners | PFAS Status (Recent Reports) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spindrift | Real fruit juice | No | No | Low (0.19 ppt) |
| Waterloo | Natural fruit essences | No | No | No PFAS Detected |
| Aura Bora | Botanical extracts | No | No | No PFAS Detected |
| Mountain Valley | Natural minerals | No | No | No PFAS Detected |
| Sound | Botanical/Tea Infusions | No | No | No PFAS Detected |
| LaCroix | Natural fruit essences | No | No | Detected Above 1 ppt |
| Topo Chico | Natural minerals | No | No | Detected Above 1 ppt |
Potential Downsides and How to Address Them
For most people, seltzer water is a healthy way to stay hydrated. However, there are minor considerations to keep in mind:
- Dental Erosion: The carbonation creates a slightly acidic environment, which some worry could erode tooth enamel over time. However, seltzer is far less acidic than soda or juice. Drinking it in moderation, preferably with a meal, and rinsing with plain water afterward can mitigate this risk.
- Bloating and Gas: The carbon dioxide bubbles can lead to bloating or discomfort for some individuals, especially those with sensitive stomachs or conditions like IBS. Listen to your body and moderate intake if you experience these symptoms.
Conclusion
Deciding what is the healthiest brand of seltzer ultimately depends on your priorities, but several brands consistently rank high for their pure ingredients and minimal additives. Spindrift is an excellent choice for those wanting the taste of real fruit juice, while Waterloo and Sound offer bold flavors derived from essences without the sugar. For the purest experience, naturally sourced mineral waters like Mountain Valley are a top choice, and confirmed low-PFAS options like those from Soda Sense give peace of mind. By carefully reading labels and considering ingredients, you can confidently choose a seltzer that fits your healthy lifestyle. If you are concerned about your intake of PFAS chemicals, you can learn more from reputable sources like the Collins Law Firm PFAS blog: Do You Know What's in Your Sparkling Water?.
