What is the most nutritious mineral water?

December 22, 2025 •

4 min read

Many mineral waters naturally contain essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, with concentrations often surpassing tap water. Determining what is the most nutritious mineral water means examining the specific mineral profile on the bottle rather than relying solely on branding or price.

Quick Summary

The most nutritious mineral water is not a single brand, but depends on its specific mineral content, particularly magnesium and calcium, which can be found by reading the label's total dissolved solids (TDS) and mineral profile.

Key Points

Check the Label: The 'most nutritious' water is determined by its mineral content, not its branding. Always read the label for specific mineral concentrations.
High TDS indicates high minerals: A higher Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) value, typically listed on the bottle, generally means a higher concentration of beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium.
European Waters are Often Richer: Studies show that many European mineral waters contain significantly higher mineral levels on average than their North American counterparts.
Top Contenders: Brands like ROI Water and Gerolsteiner are known for exceptionally high mineral content, with ROI boasting the world's most magnesium-rich bottled water.
Match Water to Your Needs: For specific dietary goals, such as increasing calcium or magnesium, choose a water where that mineral is most abundant.
Minerals Aid Digestion and Bone Health: The calcium and magnesium in mineral water can promote better bone density and support a healthy digestive system.

Understanding Mineral Water's Nutritional Value

When evaluating what is the most nutritious mineral water, it's crucial to understand that the term 'nutritious' refers to the concentration and type of dissolved minerals, not calories or vitamins. True mineral water originates from a protected underground source and contains a constant proportion of mineral salts and trace elements. Its journey through different geological layers is what enriches it with these valuable compounds. The total dissolved solids (TDS), typically listed on the label, is a key metric indicating the overall mineral concentration. A higher TDS generally suggests a richer mineral profile.

Key Minerals to Look For

The nutritional benefits of mineral water are primarily linked to a few key minerals:

Calcium: Essential for bone health, nerve function, and regulating heartbeat. Some mineral waters are significantly higher in calcium than others, with some brands delivering a substantial portion of the recommended daily intake in just one liter. Calcium from mineral water is well-absorbed by the body, providing an excellent dietary supplement.
Magnesium: Plays a vital role in muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and nerve function. Studies have shown that adequate magnesium intake can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Some mineral waters, like ROI, are particularly famous for their high magnesium content.
Bicarbonate: Acts as a buffer to help regulate the body's pH balance and can aid in digestion by neutralizing stomach acid. Waters with a high bicarbonate content, often found in volcanic regions, can be beneficial for digestive health.
Sulfate: At certain concentrations, sulfates can have a beneficial effect on the liver and pancreas, and also aid in digestion.
Silica: Though a minor component, silica supports collagen production for healthy skin.

How to Choose the Most Nutritious Mineral Water

Reading the label is the most reliable way to determine a mineral water's nutritional content. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Check the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Look for the TDS value, usually expressed in mg/L or ppm. High mineralization waters typically have over 1500 mg/L TDS and are the most mineral-rich.
Examine the Mineral Breakdown: Find the list of mineral components. Brands must list the concentrations of key minerals like Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), and Bicarbonate.
Consider Your Dietary Needs: If you're looking to supplement specific minerals, choose a water with a high concentration of that mineral. For example, if you need more calcium, opt for a brand like Contrex. If you're managing sodium intake, check the sodium level carefully.
Note the Source: The source and geographical origin can influence the mineral profile and taste. European mineral waters often have higher and more consistent mineral levels compared to many North American brands.
Evaluate Sustainability and Packaging: As an eco-conscious consumer, consider packaging materials like glass or recycled options, and the environmental impact of long-distance transport.

Comparison of High-Mineral Water Brands

The table below compares the mineral content (per liter) of several globally recognized, mineral-rich brands. Note that these are average values and can vary slightly.


Brand	Origin	TDS (mg/L)	Calcium (mg/L)	Magnesium (mg/L)	Key Features	Source
ROI Water	Slovenia	7,481	610	1,300	Extremely high magnesium; naturally carbonated
Gerolsteiner	Germany	2,500	345-348	100-108	High calcium and magnesium; high bicarbonate
Contrex	France	2,078	468-486	74.5	Exceptionally high calcium; low sodium
San Pellegrino	Italy	880	150	51	Moderate mineralization; popular sparkling option
Evian	France	340-345	83	27	Moderately mineralized spring water
Fiji	Fiji	222-224	17-18	13	Low to moderate mineralization; known for smooth taste

The Importance of High Mineral Content

For most people, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other whole foods is the primary source of essential minerals. However, drinking mineral-rich water can provide a valuable supplement, especially for those with dietary gaps or specific needs. For instance, a person with low magnesium levels might benefit from a high-magnesium water like ROI. Athletes who lose electrolytes through sweat might also see benefits from water with higher mineral content. Scientific studies have explored the positive effects of specific mineral water compositions on health outcomes like blood pressure, bone density, and digestive regularity. However, as with any dietary supplement, it is best to discuss a significant change in mineral water consumption with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions like kidney issues. A good quality mineral water can certainly contribute to a more nutritious hydration strategy.

The Bottom Line

The quest to find the single most nutritious mineral water is ultimately subjective, as nutritional needs differ for every individual. However, by understanding the significance of TDS and the specific minerals present, you can make an informed choice that best suits your health goals. Waters with high concentrations of calcium and magnesium, often sourced from European springs, tend to offer the most significant nutritional benefits. By comparing labels, you can select a product that not only hydrates effectively but also helps supplement your body's essential mineral intake. This conscious approach to hydration empowers you to choose what is the most nutritious mineral water for you. For further reading on mineral content, review studies on the composition of various bottled waters like those found via the National Institutes of Health.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice for Health

There is no single "most nutritious" mineral water that fits everyone, but highly mineralized waters like ROI, Gerolsteiner, and Contrex offer substantial concentrations of key nutrients. By learning to read labels and understanding your personal dietary needs, you can choose a mineral water that provides the most benefit. Whether you prioritize calcium for bone health, magnesium for muscle function, or simply seek a balanced mineral profile, the labels hold the key to finding your most nutritious hydration source.

Frequently Asked Questions

TDS, or Total Dissolved Solids, is a measure of the concentration of all inorganic and organic substances dissolved in water. For mineral water, a higher TDS value indicates a richer concentration of beneficial minerals.

While tap water is generally safe and regulated, mineral water often contains significantly higher concentrations of specific minerals like calcium and magnesium, offering additional nutritional benefits not found in most tap water sources.

ROI Water, sourced from Rogaška Slatina, Slovenia, is renowned for having one of the highest magnesium concentrations of any bottled water in the world, with over 1,300 mg/L.

Yes, some mineral waters, particularly those with high levels of bicarbonate and magnesium sulfate, can help regulate digestive health and relieve constipation.

Yes, moderate consumption of high-mineral water is generally safe and can be beneficial. However, those with pre-existing conditions, especially kidney-related issues, should consult a doctor due to the high mineral load.

No. While some, like Gerolsteiner or ROI, are naturally carbonated from their source, others are still water. Some manufacturers also add carbonation artificially.

Both come from underground sources, but true mineral water must have a consistently high mineral content of at least 250 parts per million, per FDA regulations. Spring water has a more variable, and typically lower, mineral count.

While a balanced diet is the main source of minerals, mineral water can provide a helpful supplement, especially for boosting intake of specific minerals like calcium or magnesium. It can be particularly useful for athletes or those with dietary restrictions.