The Purification Process: Why Minerals Are Removed
To understand what purified water has flavor enhancing minerals, one must first grasp why the original minerals are removed in the first place. Many bottled water companies use purification processes like reverse osmosis (RO), distillation, or deionization to produce water that is nearly free of contaminants. While highly effective at removing harmful substances like lead, chlorine, and bacteria, these processes also strip away naturally occurring minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
For example, reverse osmosis forces water through a semi-permeable membrane with incredibly small pores, trapping dissolved solids and impurities. The resulting water is exceptionally clean but is left with a tasteless or 'flat' quality that many find unappealing. By removing the minerals that contribute to water's natural flavor, purification creates a blank slate for re-mineralization.
Key Minerals That Enhance Water Flavor
Not all minerals are added back into purified water for flavor. The goal is to create a specific, appealing taste profile. The most common minerals added back are electrolytes, which not only contribute to flavor but also aid in hydration.
Magnesium
Magnesium can impart a smooth, silky texture and a slightly sweet note to water. It is a critical mineral for overall health, involved in muscle function and biochemical reactions. A balanced level of magnesium can round out a water's flavor, making it feel more refreshing.
Calcium
Often added as calcium carbonate, this mineral contributes to a more neutral or slightly sweet taste profile. In addition to flavor, calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. In remineralized water, it helps to balance the pH, preventing the purified water from being too acidic and ensuring a pleasant mouthfeel.
Potassium
Potassium can be added to contribute to a crisp, clean taste. Like sodium and magnesium, it is a key electrolyte that supports nerve and muscle function. Its presence can provide a more complex and satisfying flavor than plain purified water.
Sodium
In carefully controlled, small amounts, sodium (salt) can activate taste buds and make water taste fresher and more thirst-quenching. However, too much can result in a noticeably salty flavor, as experienced with some naturally mineral-rich spring waters.
Popular Purified Water Brands with Added Minerals
Several well-known bottled water brands utilize remineralization to achieve their signature taste. They use processes like reverse osmosis and then inject their proprietary blend of minerals back in before bottling.
- Dasani: A prominent brand that purifies its water and then enhances it with a blend of minerals for a 'crisp, fresh taste'.
- Pure Life (Nestlé): This brand specifies that its purified water is enhanced with minerals for a clean, refreshing taste.
- Primo Water: The company uses a multi-step reverse osmosis process and then adds its own proprietary blend of minerals for taste. Primo has its own trade secret blend to craft what it considers the perfect mineral ratio.
- Core Hydration: This brand purifies its water and adds electrolytes and minerals to achieve a perfectly balanced 7.4 pH.
The Home Remineralization Process
It is also possible to add minerals to purified water at home. This is particularly relevant for those who use reverse osmosis systems under their sink, which produce demineralized water.
- Remineralization Filters: Many RO systems can be fitted with a post-filter cartridge that contains mineral media, such as calcite. As the water passes through, it dissolves a small amount of the media, adding calcium and other minerals back into the water.
- Mineral Drops: Concentrated trace mineral drops can be added to a glass or pitcher of purified water. This is a simple and fast method, though it can be harder to achieve a perfectly consistent taste.
- DIY Saline Solutions: Adding a small pinch of high-quality salt, like pink Himalayan salt, can provide trace minerals and enhance flavor. This offers control over the mineral content but requires careful measurement to avoid an overly salty taste.
Comparison: Purified vs. Remineralized Water
| Feature | Plain Purified Water | Remineralized Purified Water |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Any water source (tap, well) | Any water source (tap, well) |
| Processing | Highly filtered, e.g., Reverse Osmosis, Distillation | Highly filtered, with added minerals in a final stage |
| Mineral Content | Very low to non-existent (low TDS) | Specific, controlled levels of beneficial minerals |
| Taste Profile | 'Flat,' neutral, or bland | Crisp, fresh, and more satisfying |
| Hydration | Effectively hydrates, but lacks electrolytes for enhanced absorption | Contains added electrolytes for optimal hydration |
| Primary Goal | Remove contaminants for safety | Enhance flavor and health benefits |
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Hydration
In summary, the best purified water with flavor enhancing minerals is the one that best suits your taste and needs. While plain purified water is an excellent option for maximum purity, remineralized versions offer a more enjoyable and hydrating experience by reintroducing key electrolytes. Whether you choose a name-brand bottled water or a home-based remineralization system, understanding the role of minerals like calcium and magnesium in creating a refreshing taste allows you to make a more informed choice about your hydration.
