Understanding the Different Types of Bottled Water
Before determining which brand is the healthiest, it's crucial to understand the different types of bottled water available in the UK. The main categories are natural mineral water and spring water, with some brands also offering purified or alkaline water.
Natural Mineral Water
By law, natural mineral water must be extracted directly from a named, naturally occurring underground mineral spring. Its original purity must be maintained and it cannot undergo chemical treatment, though it can be filtered. Brands like Evian and Volvic fall into this category and are often rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are essential for health. The specific mineral composition must be stable over time and is detailed on the bottle's label.
Spring Water
Like mineral water, spring water also comes from an underground source and must be bottled at the source. However, spring water is not subject to the same stringent regulations regarding consistent mineral composition and can undergo more treatment. Brands like Highland Spring are popular spring water choices. While some spring waters may contain high mineral levels, this is not a regulated requirement.
Purified and Alkaline Water
Purified water is typically sourced from municipal supplies and treated to remove chemicals and contaminants. The process, often reverse osmosis, removes both impurities and minerals. Brands then sometimes add electrolytes back in for taste and balance. Alkaline water, such as Actiph, has a higher pH level, which some people believe can help reduce acidity in the body. Actiph achieves a pH of 9 by adding electrolytes and ionising purified water.
Factors for Determining 'Healthiest'
To decide what constitutes the healthiest bottled water, several key factors must be considered:
- Mineral Content: Different waters offer varying levels of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica. Evian and San Pellegrino are known for their high calcium and magnesium, good for bone health, while Fiji and Volvic contain beneficial silica for skin and hair.
- Purity and Contaminants: Source purity and packaging are critical. Recent studies on UK bottled water have revealed microplastics in many brands, making glass-bottled options or those with superior filtration appealing. For instance, brands like Hildon and Highland Spring packaged in glass often score highly on purity.
- pH Level: While a balanced diet is the primary source of electrolytes, some prefer alkaline water for a specific taste profile or its potential effects on bodily acidity. Natural alkaline brands like Icelandic Glacial (pH 8.4) are a strong contender in this area.
- Packaging: Single-use plastic bottles contribute to microplastic contamination and environmental waste. Opting for glass bottles or cardboard cartons (like Bio-Synergy H2Eau) is a healthier and more sustainable choice.
Comparison Table: A Look at UK Bottled Water
| Brand | Water Type | Key Minerals | pH Level | Packaging | Purity (Microplastics) | Health Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AQUA Carpatica | Natural Mineral | Low Sodium, Nitrate-free | 7.8 (Alkaline) | Plastic | Virtually None | Purity, Low Sodium |
| Evian | Natural Mineral | Calcium, Magnesium | ~7.2 | Plastic (some recycled) | Often contains MPs | Minerals, Bone Health |
| Highland Spring | Spring | Varies | Varies | Plastic & Glass | Lower in Glass | Purity (in glass), British source |
| Hildon | Natural Mineral | Balanced minerals | Varies | Glass | Lower in Glass | Purity, Balance |
| Actiph Water | Alkaline Ionised | Added Electrolytes | 9.0 (High Alkaline) | Recycled Plastic | Potential MPs | Alkalinity, Electrolytes |
| Volvic | Natural Mineral | Silica, Calcium, Magnesium | ~7.0 | Plastic | Often contains MPs | Silica, Skin Health |
Expert Opinions and Considerations
While branded mineral water can offer specific benefits, many experts stress that a balanced diet is the primary source for essential minerals and electrolytes. The mineral content differences between water brands, even between some bottled water and hard tap water, can be relatively insignificant. The British bottled water market is valued at over £2.4 billion, so marketing plays a significant role in influencing consumer choice.
Additionally, the environmental impact of bottled water is substantial. The production and transport of bottled water consume immense energy, and plastic bottles are a major source of waste. Choosing glass bottles or, even better, using a filter with tap water and a reusable bottle, are more sustainable and often healthier choices.
How to Make the Healthiest Choice for You
Making the 'healthiest' choice depends on your personal priorities. Here’s a breakdown:
- For high mineral content: Brands like Evian or San Pellegrino offer a reliable source of naturally occurring calcium and magnesium. For specific minerals like silica, Fiji or Volvic are options, although Fiji water's transportation from the Fiji Islands raises environmental concerns.
- For maximum purity and less microplastics: Opt for water bottled in glass, such as Hildon or Highland Spring glass bottles. Glass is a non-reactive material that doesn't leach microplastics. Brands like AQUA Carpatica are also noted for their high purity and nitrate-free sourcing.
- For naturally high alkalinity: Icelandic Glacial offers a naturally high pH due to its unique filtration through volcanic rock. For a UK-based alkaline option, Actiph provides a pH of 9 through ionisation.
- For a budget-friendly and pure option: Tesco's Ashbeck has been recommended for its clean taste and value by some water enthusiasts. However, as a spring water, its mineral content is less strictly regulated than mineral water.
The Best Alternative: Filtered Tap Water
UK tap water is generally safe and of high quality, adhering to strict safety standards. For many, the healthiest and most sustainable option is simply filtered tap water. A good filter can improve the taste and remove impurities while avoiding the environmental and health issues associated with plastic bottles. Filtered water is also significantly cheaper than bottled water. The Refill campaign is another excellent initiative that helps people find free water refill stations across the UK, reducing plastic waste.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no single 'healthiest bottled water in the UK' for everyone. The best choice depends on individual needs and priorities, weighing mineral content against purity, pH, and environmental concerns. For those seeking specific minerals, brands like Evian or San Pellegrino are solid choices. If avoiding plastic and microplastics is the priority, glass-bottled options such as Hildon are superior. However, considering the potential microplastic contamination in many plastic bottles and the environmental impact of shipping water, the most practical and sustainable healthy choice for most people in the UK is high-quality filtered tap water. This offers purity, great taste, and is significantly kinder to both your wallet and the planet. For more information on UK water regulations, consult the official GOV.UK guidance on bottled water.
Methodology for Choosing 'Healthiest'
To determine the healthiest options, we evaluated several factors based on reputable sources and expert commentary. This includes reviewing UK government guidelines for mineral water classification, analysing data on microplastic contamination, and comparing the mineral composition and pH levels of leading brands. We also considered expert opinions on the relative health benefits of minerals in water versus diet and weighed the environmental impact of packaging.
