The search for the single "healthiest" bottled water brand is a journey fraught with marketing myths and varying scientific opinions. Instead of a clear winner, the answer lies in understanding the different types of bottled water, their sources, and the potential impact of their packaging.
The reality of bottled water versus filtered tap water
Many consumers buy bottled water believing it to be purer or healthier than tap water, but this is often not the case. In fact, tap water in many developed nations is highly regulated and often subject to more transparent testing than its bottled counterparts. Reports from organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) have found contaminants in popular bottled brands, sometimes at levels exceeding health standards, even if they meet federal guidelines. For cost-effectiveness and control, using a home water filter system is often a superior option, providing pure, safe water at a fraction of the cost.
The risks of plastic packaging
One of the biggest downsides to bottled water is the packaging itself. The most common type of plastic used, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), can leach harmful chemicals such as antimony, bisphenols, and phthalates into the water, especially when exposed to heat or for extended periods. Recent studies have also revealed alarming levels of nanoplastics in bottled water, which can potentially cause health problems. This makes alternative packaging, like glass or aluminum, a healthier choice, as they don't leach these harmful substances.
Understanding different water types and their health implications
Choosing a bottled water requires looking beyond the brand name and understanding the water's source and treatment method. The three main types are purified, spring, and mineral.
- Purified water: This water, often sourced from municipal supplies, undergoes processes like reverse osmosis to remove contaminants, leaving it very pure but potentially stripped of beneficial minerals. Brands like Aquafina and Dasani (which adds minerals back for taste) are examples. While safe, the lack of minerals may not be ideal for everyone, and the reliance on plastic bottles poses environmental and health risks.
- Spring water: Sourced from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the earth's surface, spring water's mineral content varies depending on its geological source. It is often lightly filtered but retains its natural mineral profile. Brands like Mountain Valley and Evian fall into this category, with Evian containing a high mineral content from the French Alps.
- Mineral water: This is defined by its consistent mineral content and origin from a specific underground source. While beneficial for replenishing electrolytes, the high mineral content can be a concern for some, such as those with kidney issues. Examples include Gerolsteiner and San Pellegrino.
- Alkaline water: Some brands, like Essentia and Icelandic Glacial, market themselves on their high pH level, often achieved through ionization or natural filtration through volcanic rock. While supporters claim health benefits from neutralizing acidity, this is a subject of ongoing debate, and a balanced diet is a more reliable way to obtain electrolytes.
Comparison table: Mineral vs. Purified water
| Feature | Mineral Water | Purified (e.g., Reverse Osmosis) | What it means for your health |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Underground springs with naturally occurring minerals | Often municipal water, purified to remove contaminants | Mineral content can be beneficial for electrolyte replenishment, but check for high levels if you have sensitivities. Purest water, free of most contaminants. |
| Mineral Content | Naturally rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium | Minerals are removed during filtration; sometimes added back for taste | Mineral water is a good source of essential minerals. Purified water doesn't provide these minerals, which should be sourced from a balanced diet. |
| Taste | Often has a distinct taste profile based on mineral content | Generally has a neutral, clean taste | Personal preference based on taste, but mineral water's taste is often tied to its composition. |
| pH Level | Can vary widely, some are naturally alkaline | Tends to be slightly acidic, but can be neutralized or made alkaline | A balanced pH is most important for general health. Extremes (very high or low pH) are not necessary for most people. |
Leading brands for consideration
While no single brand is universally healthiest, some stand out based on their sourcing, purity, and eco-friendly practices.
- Mountain Valley Spring Water: Sourced from the Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas and bottled since 1871, this brand is known for its purity and balanced mineral content. It's available in glass bottles, which avoids the plastic leaching issue and is reusable. It has also received awards for its taste.
- Essentia Alkaline Water: For those seeking alkaline water, Essentia offers a product with a pH of 9.5. It undergoes microfiltration and reverse osmosis to remove impurities, with added electrolytes for taste and potentially enhanced hydration.
- Liquid Death: A unique and popular canned water brand, Liquid Death sources spring water from a mountain source and packages it in infinitely recyclable aluminum cans. This eliminates the risk of plastic contamination and reduces environmental impact. It's a marketing-savvy option for spring water in sustainable packaging.
- Boxed Water: Another environmentally conscious brand, Boxed Water packages purified water in a mostly paper-based carton. This offers an alternative to plastic bottles, with the water purified via reverse osmosis.
Conclusion: The healthiest water is an informed choice
The quest for the healthiest water brand reveals that the best option isn't found on a supermarket shelf. For most people, high-quality filtered tap water, stored in a reusable stainless steel or glass bottle, is the purest, safest, and most sustainable choice. If purchasing bottled water, consider brands like Mountain Valley that offer natural spring water in glass, or newer options like Liquid Death and Boxed Water that use sustainable packaging. Ultimately, the healthiest water is the one you know is pure, and that supports both your personal health and the planet's well-being.
What you can do to find the healthiest water
- Check your tap water: Many cities provide quality reports. See what's in your local supply.
- Invest in a good filter: A home filter can provide high-quality water for a low cost.
- Choose sustainable packaging: If buying bottled, opt for glass or aluminum to avoid chemicals from plastic.
- Know your needs: Don't fall for marketing hype. A balanced diet provides plenty of minerals for most people, making hyper-mineralized water unnecessary.
Consumer Reports provides additional insight into bottled water quality.
