The Volcanic Filtration Process
One of the most defining characteristics of Waiakea water is its source and the remarkable journey it takes before bottling. Originating as rain and snowmelt on the summit of Hawaii's Mauna Loa volcano, the water undergoes an exceptional natural filtration process. It percolates through thousands of feet of porous volcanic rock, a process that can take up to 30 days. This extensive, natural process not only purifies the water by trapping contaminants but also enriches it with a unique blend of minerals and electrolytes. This volcanic process is far superior to artificial filtration methods used by many other water brands, which often strip water of its natural benefits.
The Resulting Mineral Composition
As the water travels through the volcanic rock, it gathers a specific mineral blend that contributes significantly to its quality and taste. Some of the key minerals and their concentrations are:
- Silica: At approximately 44 mg/L, silica provides the water with its distinctively smooth and soft mouthfeel. This essential mineral is also lauded for its potential health benefits, including supporting healthy hair, skin, and nails, as well as bone health.
- Calcium: Sourced naturally, this mineral is essential for bone health and contributes to the overall mineral balance.
- Potassium: An important electrolyte that works with magnesium to aid in muscle function and recovery.
- Magnesium: Another vital electrolyte that plays a role in numerous bodily functions.
- Bicarbonates: These contribute to the water's natural alkalinity and can aid in balancing the body's pH.
Natural Alkalinity and Purity
Unlike many other alkaline waters on the market that achieve a high pH through artificial ionization or added chemicals, Waiakea's alkalinity is completely natural. The volcanic filtration process gives it a naturally alkaline pH range of 7.6 to 8.2. This natural alkalinity provides several potential benefits, including improved hydration and a slightly sweeter, non-acidic taste that is highly palatable. Furthermore, the pristine and isolated environment of the Mauna Loa source results in a remarkably low nitrate level, indicating exceptional purity and a low contamination risk.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Beyond its natural qualities, Waiakea is also praised for its strong commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices. These initiatives are a significant part of why the brand is so highly regarded.
Key sustainability initiatives include:
- 100% Recycled Bottles (rPET): Waiakea was a pioneer in using 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, known as Oceanplast. This practice significantly reduces its carbon footprint, using less energy and water in manufacturing compared to virgin plastic.
- Carbon Neutral Certification: The company is certified CarbonNeutral®, actively reducing emissions throughout its supply chain and offsetting remaining emissions through verified projects.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Waiakea practices highly responsible water extraction, bottling only a tiny fraction (less than 0.003%) of its source's vast daily yield.
Ethical commitments through the Kōkua Initiative:
- Clean Water Access: For every liter purchased, Waiakea provides a week's supply of clean water to people in need in Malawi, Africa, through its partnership with Pump Aid.
- Local Community Support: The Kōkua Initiative supports various community projects and non-profits in Hawaii, focusing on education, conservation, and helping the most vulnerable.
A Comparison of Premium Bottled Waters
To better understand what makes Waiakea stand out, here is a comparison with other popular bottled water brands, highlighting key differences based on taste profile, source, and practices.
| Feature | Waiakea | Fiji | SmartWater | Voss | Evian |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Mauna Loa Volcano, Hawaii | Aquifer in Fiji | Purified municipal source | Artesian well, Norway | Glacial sand, French Alps |
| Filtration | Natural Volcanic Rock | Natural Volcanic Rock | Vapor-distilled | Limited processing | Natural, slow filtration |
| Alkalinity | Naturally alkaline (pH 7.6-8.2) | Naturally alkaline | Artificially ionized | Naturally occurring | Naturally occurring |
| Mineral Content | Rich in Silica, Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium | Contains Silica | Minerals added back artificially | Low TDS/mineral content | Rich in Calcium, Magnesium |
| Taste Profile | Light, crisp, smooth finish | Smooth, earthy | Clean, neutral | Crisp, pure | Balanced, soft |
| Sustainability | 100% rPET, CarbonNeutral®, Pump Aid | Limited environmental practices | No specific environmental practices | Commendable glass packaging | Improving rPET usage |
Conclusion: More than just water
In summary, Waiakea's superior quality is not a result of a single factor but a combination of its unique geology and a company-wide commitment to purpose-driven values. The water's pure source on the isolated Mauna Loa volcano, its enriching natural volcanic filtration, and its resulting mineral-rich, naturally alkaline composition are the primary reasons for its crisp, smooth taste and health benefits. This natural premium quality is further elevated by the brand's pioneering ethical and sustainable practices, including the use of 100% recycled plastic bottles and its charitable Kōkua Initiative. For consumers seeking a bottled water that is not only naturally healthy and delicious but also environmentally and socially conscious, Waiakea presents a compelling option that lives up to its premium reputation. You can learn more about their mission and story by visiting their website: https://waiakea.com/.
