The question of which brand of water has the best pH is more complex than it first appears, as the "best" pH is subjective and depends on your individual needs and taste preferences. While pure water is naturally neutral at a pH of 7, bottled waters are rarely pure. They can range from highly acidic to significantly alkaline due to their source and processing. This guide explores the pH levels of common brands and provides context to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the pH Scale and Bottled Water
The pH scale is a measure of how acidic or basic (alkaline) a substance is, with a range from 0 to 14. A value of 7 is neutral, anything below 7 is acidic, and anything above is alkaline.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that municipal water supplies maintain a pH level between 6.5 and 8.5 for aesthetic purposes, such as taste and pipe corrosion control. However, this is not a mandatory standard for bottled water. The pH of bottled water is determined by its source (e.g., natural springs, municipal supply) and any subsequent treatment.
The Three Main Types of Bottled Water
- Purified Water: Often starts from a municipal source and is treated using methods like reverse osmosis or distillation to remove minerals and contaminants. Electrolytes or minerals are sometimes added back for taste. Purified brands like Dasani and Aquafina often have a slightly acidic pH because the purification process removes buffering minerals.
- Natural Spring and Artesian Water: These waters come from underground springs or aquifers and are bottled directly at the source. Their mineral content, and therefore pH, is naturally occurring and varies depending on the geology of the source. Popular examples include Evian and Fiji.
- Alkaline Water: This water has a pH higher than 7. It can be naturally alkaline due to its interaction with rock and soil at the source (e.g., Icelandic Glacial, Waiakea), or it can be artificially created through a process called ionization, where minerals are added and the water is electrically treated to raise its pH (e.g., Essentia).
Bottled Water pH Comparison Table
Here is a comparison of the approximate pH levels for several popular water brands based on various tests. Note that pH can sometimes vary slightly by batch or test methodology.
| Brand | pH Level | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| TEN Alkaline Spring Water | ~10.0 | Alkaline (Natural Spring) | One of the highest naturally sourced alkaline spring waters available. |
| Essentia | ~9.5 | Alkaline (Purified) | Artificially ionized with added electrolytes. |
| Icelandic Glacial Water | ~8.4 | Alkaline (Natural) | Naturally filtered through lava rock. |
| Fiji Water | ~7.6 | Artesian (Natural) | Sourced from an aquifer in Fiji and filtered through volcanic rock. |
| Evian | ~7.5 | Spring (Natural) | Sourced from glacial springs in the French Alps. |
| Core Hydration | ~7.4 | Purified | Marketed as “perfectly balanced” with added minerals. |
| Poland Spring | ~7.2 | Spring (Natural) | Sourced from springs, with minerals screened out. |
| Smartwater | ~7.0 | Purified | Distilled water with added electrolytes for taste. |
| Dasani | ~5.6 | Purified | Purified municipal water with added minerals, often slightly acidic. |
| Aquafina | ~5.5-6.0 | Purified | Purified municipal water, typically on the more acidic side. |
Which pH is Best for You?
The term "best" is not universal. Your choice depends on what you value in your water.
- If you seek the highest alkaline water: Brands like TEN Alkaline Spring Water or Essentia are top contenders. TEN is naturally sourced, while Essentia is processed and ionized.
- If you prefer naturally sourced, mineral-rich water: Look for brands like Fiji or Icelandic Glacial, which derive their alkalinity from natural geological filtration.
- If you want a balanced, neutral option: Waters like Core Hydration or Smartwater are designed to be close to a neutral pH, with minerals added for taste.
- If cost is a primary factor: Recognize that many inexpensive, widely available purified brands like Dasani and Aquafina are more acidic, which may not appeal to everyone.
The Role of pH in Health and Taste
While marketing claims often tout the health benefits of high-pH water, the scientific community is divided. Some proponents suggest it can help neutralize excess body acid, but the stomach's powerful hydrochloric acid is designed to neutralize what you consume, so the effect on overall body pH is likely minimal.
What is more certain is the effect of pH on taste and dental health. Highly acidic water can have a metallic or sour taste and can potentially contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel over time. Alkaline water, conversely, may have a smoother, less acidic taste profile. For general health advice on hydration and dental considerations, consult authoritative sources like those at Healthline or similar health institutions.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Water for Your Needs
There is no single brand that has the absolute "best" pH. The ideal choice is a personal one, based on your preferences for taste, mineral content, and sourcing. While Ten Alkaline Spring Water and Essentia offer the highest pH, natural spring waters like Icelandic Glacial and Fiji provide natural alkalinity and mineral content. Meanwhile, many purified waters offer a clean, if sometimes slightly acidic, taste. By understanding the differences, you can choose the bottle that best fits your needs, without relying on marketing hype.
