Understanding Natural vs. Artificial Carbonation
Not all sparkling water is created equal. The primary distinction lies in how the water gets its bubbles. Naturally carbonated mineral water is infused with carbon dioxide from geological activity at its underground source, a process that can take decades. As it travels through mineral-rich rock, the water dissolves these elements and absorbs the natural CO2, which results in a fine, often subtle, effervescence. Brands using this method pride themselves on capturing and bottling this natural state, often with minimal interference.
In contrast, artificially carbonated seltzers and club sodas are created by injecting still water with pressurized CO2 gas. This allows manufacturers to control the level of carbonation and create a consistent, often sharper, bubbly texture. While many artificially carbonated brands use natural fruit essences for flavor, the carbonation itself is not from the original source. Some mineral water brands, like S.Pellegrino, are sourced from naturally mineralized springs but re-add carbonation separately during bottling to control consistency. This can make the 'natural' label confusing for consumers, as the water's mineral content is natural, but the fizz may be added later.
Brands with Naturally Sourced Carbonation
Some brands are celebrated for their naturally sourced effervescence, though the bottling process can sometimes involve adjusting the CO2 levels. These waters offer a distinct taste and mouthfeel that come directly from their unique geological origins.
Gerolsteiner Sparkling Mineral Water
Sourced from Germany's Volcanic Eifel region, Gerolsteiner is naturally carbonated as it passes through volcanic rock. This process enriches the water with a high level of minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which contribute to its distinct taste and feel. The carbonation is a product of its source, giving it a natural claim that is difficult to dispute.
RARE Sparkling Mineral Water
RARE water comes from the Anapak Mountain in Armenia, where it is naturally infused with CO2 and bottled without interference. The brand emphasizes that its water is a 'gift from nature' and highlights its pristine, untouched quality. This makes RARE one of the truest examples of naturally carbonated and minimally processed sparkling water.
Topo Chico
This mineral water from Mexico's Cerro del Topo Chico is famous for its distinctively sharp, prickly bubbles. While its source is naturally carbonated, the brand, like others, purifies the water and adds back CO2 during bottling. This ensures a consistent product but means the final carbonation level is controlled by the bottler, not exclusively by nature.
Mountain Valley Sparkling Water
Sourced from a spring in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, this is another mineral water that is naturally sourced. It offers a slow, gentle bubble and soft taste, distinguishing it from brands with sharper carbonation.
The Comparison Table: Natural vs. Added Fizz
| Brand | Source | Carbonation Method | Added Flavors? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gerolsteiner | German Volcanic Eifel | Naturally occurring CO2 from volcanic rock | No | High mineral content, naturally sourced fizz. |
| RARE | Armenian Mountain Spring | Naturally occurring CO2; minimal interference | No | Bottled directly from the source with native carbonation. |
| S.Pellegrino | Italian Alps Spring | Naturally occurring minerals, but CO2 added separately | Flavored options available | Adds CO2 during bottling to achieve consistency. |
| Perrier | French Spring | Naturally carbonated spring, but CO2 and water are captured separately and reunited | Flavored options available | Recent controversy over purification and CO2 methods. |
| Topo Chico | Mexican Mineral Spring | Natural carbonation, but CO2 is added back during bottling | Some mineral variants | Known for sharp bubbles, though adjusted during bottling. |
| La Croix | Filtered Water | Artificially carbonated | Yes (natural essences) | Seltzer with added CO2 and flavor essences. |
| Bubly | Filtered Water | Artificially carbonated | Yes (natural essences) | Seltzer with added CO2 and fruit flavor essences. |
Brands with Added Carbonation (Seltzer)
These brands start with filtered water and add carbonation in the factory, making them technically 'artificially' carbonated, even if the flavorings are natural. They are not sparkling mineral waters.
- La Croix: A well-known seltzer brand that adds natural fruit essences for flavor to artificially carbonated water.
- Bubly: Another seltzer option from PepsiCo that uses purified water and natural flavorings.
- Waterloo: Promotes authentic flavor profiles achieved with natural essences added to its artificially carbonated water.
- Polar: This seltzer brand is known for its strong carbonation and wide variety of fruit flavors.
How to Choose Your Natural Sparkling Water
Making the right choice for your needs involves considering several factors beyond just the 'natural' label.
- Assess your health goals: If you're seeking a specific mineral profile, opt for naturally mineralized waters like Gerolsteiner. If you just want a healthier alternative to soda, seltzers are a great, zero-calorie option.
- Consider the source: Brands that capture both water and CO2 directly from a single natural source, like RARE, offer a purer, less-processed product. Other brands may source their water naturally but add or re-add the carbonation.
- Check the label: Always read the ingredient list. True natural mineral water will often have its specific mineral composition listed. Flavored seltzers will disclose their natural or artificial flavoring ingredients.
- Taste preference: Naturally sparkling mineral waters often have a more subtle, mineral-forward flavor, while artificially carbonated seltzers can be pure or feature a wide range of fruit essences.
Conclusion
When asking, "Which brand of sparkling water is natural?", the answer is nuanced. While many popular brands, such as S.Pellegrino and Perrier, originate from mineral-rich natural springs, they often adjust carbonation levels during bottling. Truly naturally carbonated brands like Gerolsteiner and RARE offer an undisturbed effervescence directly from their source. Artificially carbonated waters, or seltzers, like La Croix and Bubly, are a healthy choice for flavor and fizz but do not have a natural mineral content or carbonation process. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize the integrity of the natural source or the controlled consistency of a bottled product. For a deeper dive into the health implications, see Medical News Today on Sparkling Water.
