Decoding Bottled Water Labels: Types and Treatment
To determine what's the safest water brand to drink, it's essential to understand the different types of bottled water and the processes they undergo. Not all water is created equal, and the terminology on the label can be misleading. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
Types of Water
- Purified Water: Originates from a municipal tap or groundwater source but has been treated to remove chemicals and contaminants. This is often achieved through processes like reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionization, which strip the water of most minerals. Aquafina and Dasani are examples of purified water brands, though they add back small amounts of minerals for taste.
- Spring Water: Sourced from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the earth's surface. Brands like Evian and Fiji market their spring water's unique mineral content and source location. The mineral content varies based on the geography, and some spring waters may contain higher levels of total dissolved solids (TDS).
- Alkaline Water: Has a pH level higher than 7, often achieved by adding alkaline minerals or through an ionization process. Proponents believe it can neutralize acid in the body, though evidence is limited. Essentia is a popular alkaline water brand, with a pH of 9.5.
- Mineral Water: Sourced from a geologically and physically protected underground water source and contains naturally occurring minerals and trace elements. Brands like Acqua Panna fall into this category. Mineral content and TDS are typically higher in this type of water.
Regulation and Oversight: FDA vs. EPA
A crucial difference in water safety involves the regulatory bodies responsible for oversight in the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates public tap water, enforcing strict, publicly reported standards. In contrast, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates bottled water as a food product, and its standards can be less stringent in some areas. The EPA requires more frequent testing for certain contaminants, and while the FDA requires bottlers to meet safety standards, the public reporting of results is less transparent.
Factors Influencing Bottled Water Safety
Beyond the type of water, several other factors determine a brand's safety and quality.
- Packaging: The material of the bottle can impact water quality. Plastic bottles, particularly when exposed to heat, can leach chemicals like BPA into the water. Glass and aluminum packaging, like that used by Path Water or Liquid Death, offers a safer alternative that doesn't leach chemicals and is often more sustainable.
- Certifications: Look for third-party certifications on the label. Organizations like NSF International conduct independent testing and unannounced annual plant inspections to verify compliance with FDA regulations and manufacturing practices.
- Water Source: While spring water is often marketed as 'pure,' its quality can vary depending on the source. Reverse osmosis water from a municipal source is purified more aggressively, but its final quality can depend on what minerals are added back. Some brands, like those using reverse osmosis, start with municipal water but use a rigorous purification process to achieve high purity.
- Environmental Impact: The carbon footprint and plastic waste generated by bottled water are significant considerations. Choosing brands with sustainable packaging, such as glass or recycled plastic, can mitigate some environmental concerns.
Comparison of Popular Bottled Water Brands
| Brand | Water Type | Key Features | Potential Downsides | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essentia | Alkaline | Higher pH (9.5) and added electrolytes via purification. | Some find the taste different due to added minerals. | A good choice for those seeking alkaline water, but taste can be subjective. |
| Mountain Valley Spring | Spring | Sourced from the Ouachita Mountains and packaged in glass bottles, known for purity. | More expensive and less widely available than major brands. | A top contender for spring water lovers seeking glass packaging. |
| Aquafina | Purified (RO) | Very low TDS, producing a clean, neutral taste. | Made from treated municipal tap water, potentially lacking naturally occurring minerals. | A safe, inexpensive option for those prioritizing purity over natural minerals. |
| Liquid Death | Mountain (Canned) | Packaged in aluminum cans to prevent plastic leaching, with a unique marketing style. | Metallic taste can sometimes be noticeable; higher price point. | A safe and sustainable option for those who want to avoid plastic packaging. |
| Fiji | Artesian | Naturally filtered through volcanic rock, giving it a unique mineral profile. | Concerns over logistics and potential for microplastic contamination during long transport. | A quality artesian water, but its long journey and plastic packaging raise some concerns. |
Making an Informed Decision
Ultimately, the safest water brand to drink isn't a single name, but rather a result of informed choices. Home filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis, offer a highly controlled and cost-effective way to get safe, pure water. However, if bottled water is a necessity, prioritize brands with clear sourcing, rigorous filtration, and sustainable packaging. Always check for third-party certifications like NSF, and be aware of the distinction between EPA-regulated tap water and FDA-regulated bottled water. For those with a taste for minerals, opting for brands like Mountain Valley Spring in glass can provide a purer experience. If avoiding plastic is a priority, brands like Liquid Death are a great choice. Your final decision should weigh personal preferences for taste and mineral content against safety, environmental impact, and cost.
Other Safe Water Options
- Tap Water (Filtered): For many Americans, tap water is a safe, budget-friendly, and environmentally superior option, especially when run through a home filtration system. It is often more rigorously tested than bottled water.
- Water Dispensers: For offices or homes, large-format water dispensers from companies that use multi-stage filtration provide a consistent supply of purified water.
Conclusion: Your Safest Bet
While many bottled water brands offer a clean and refreshing product, relying solely on marketing is not a sound strategy for determining safety. For most people, a high-quality home filtration system combined with the occasional bottle for convenience represents the best of both worlds: superior safety and sustainability. When purchasing bottled water, opt for brands packaged in glass or metal to avoid chemical leaching, and choose those with transparent sourcing and independent certification. By being a more informed consumer, you can confidently choose what's the safest water brand to drink, prioritizing both your health and the planet's well-being.
