You’d think water is water, right? Just grab whatever’s on sale at the store when you’re thirsty. However, not all bottled water is created equal. With so many brands and types of water out there, how do you know which is the best bottled water to drink? What makes one better than another – is it purity, taste, pH level, or mineral content? Does price really reflect quality? It’s confusing with all the choices staring at you from the grocery store aisle. The truth is, it depends on your preferences and needs. In this article, we’ll break down the top brands of bottled water so you can determine which one to reach for the next time you’re parched. We’ll explore the key factors that set them apart, from the source and treatment methods to the taste and nutrition. Get ready to become a bottled water connoisseur.
Why Drink Bottled Water? The Benefits Over Tap
Bottled water offers some advantages over tap water. For starters, bottled water goes through a filtration process to remove contaminants like lead, parasites, and other pollutants commonly found in tap water. The bottling process also kills bacteria and other microbes, so you’re less likely to get sick from drinking bottled versus tap water.
Purity and Safety
Bottled water is held to strict purity standards to ensure it’s clean and safe to drink. Major brands like Dasani, Aquafina, and Nestle Pure Life all filter and purify their water using multi-step processes like reverse osmosis, ozonation, and ion exchange to remove impurities. Some bottled waters are also naturally filtered in springs or aquifers, which provides natural filtration. Tap water, on the other hand, often contains contaminants like lead, parasites, pesticides, and toxic chemicals that bottled water is purified of. For some, the added purity and safety of bottled water is worth the extra cost.
Convenience and Portability
Bottled water is simply more convenient and portable than tap water. The sealed bottles make it easy to grab and go without worrying about spills. You can easily stash several bottles in your car, gym bag, or backpack to stay hydrated on the go. Bottled water is also more convenient when tap water isn’t available, such as when traveling abroad or in areas with unsafe drinking water. For many, the convenience and portability factor of bottled water outweighs the environmental impact and higher cost.
Taste Preference
Some people prefer the taste of bottled water over tap water. The filtration and purification processes bottled water goes through can produce a fresher, crisper taste than unfiltered tap water. Bottled water that’s naturally filtered in springs or aquifers often has a pure, mineral-rich taste that many find superior to regular tap water. While taste is subjective, for those who prefer bottled water, the enhanced flavor can make it worth the extra cost.
How We Chose the Best Bottled Waters to Drink
Taste
When it comes to bottled water, taste is key. We looked for brands that provide a crisp, clean taste without any unpleasant aftertastes. Mineral-rich waters can impart a slight salty or metallic flavor, so we avoided those with a heavy mineral profile. We preferred waters with a light, neutral taste that still felt refreshing.
Purity and Safety
The purity and safety of the water was also extremely important in our selection process. We only considered bottled waters that meet FDA standards for purified or spring water. We looked at the source of the water and the purification process to ensure contaminants and impurities are properly removed. Waters that add extra filtration or distillation steps ranked higher on our list.
Sustainability
In today’s eco-conscious world, the environmental impact of bottled water is important to consider. We gave preference to brands that use recycled plastic in their bottles and that have robust recycling programs. Some brands are also more efficient in their water usage and bottling process. We aimed to highlight companies making an effort to reduce their carbon footprint.
Value
While taste and quality are most significant, value is still a factor for most consumers. We included a range of price points on our list, from affordable bulk options to premium artisanal waters. In the end, the water’s price should match its quality and your needs. For daily hydration, an affordable multi-pack is fine. For a special occasion, a finely-crafted artesian water may be worth the splurge.
With all these factors in mind, we selected the bottled water brands that represent the best combination of taste, purity, sustainability, and value. The waters on our list will keep you well hydrated and refreshed. Choose one or try them all – your thirst will be quenched!
Ranking the Top 5 Best Bottled Waters on the Market
When choosing a bottled water, you want a refreshing drink that’s clean and pure. Here are the top 5 bottled water brands based on quality, taste, and healthiness:
1. FIJI Water
FIJI Water is one of the most popular premium bottled waters. It’s natural artesian water from the Yaqara Valley in Fiji. The iconic square bottle contains silica-rich water with a signature soft, smooth taste. It has a slightly higher pH which some claim provides health benefits. While pricey, FIJI Water is a treat for its quality and taste.
2. Evian
Evian natural spring water is bottled in the French Alps, giving it a crisp, clean taste with mineral notes. It is slightly alkaline, with a balanced mineral content and neutral pH. It’s been around since 1826, standing the test of time with its purity and quality. Evian is a go-to brand for refreshing hydration you can feel good about.
3. Essentia Water
Essentia Water is purified water with electrolytes added for taste. It goes through a multi-step ionization process for an alkaline pH and smooth flavor. Essentia is a more affordable premium brand, though not naturally sourced spring water. The electrolyte blend aims to provide better hydration, though effects seem to vary from person to person. Essentia can be a good option if you prefer the taste of purified water with added minerals.
4. Aquafina
Aquafina is Pepsi’s purified bottled water brand and one of the most popular bottled waters. It goes through a multi-step purification process, including reverse osmosis and ozonation. While budget-friendly, Aquafina lacks the naturally occurring minerals of spring or mineral water. However, its neutral pH and crisp taste make it a convenient choice for basic hydration on the go.
5. Dasani
Dasani is another leading bottled water brand from Coca-Cola that provides purified water with minerals added for taste. Like Aquafina, Dasani uses a multi-step purification process and is very affordable. Dasani has a slightly sweet taste due to added magnesium sulfate and potassium chloride. For basic hydration, Dasani can work in a pinch, though some may prefer the more natural mineral content of spring water.
Tips for Choosing the Best Bottled Water for You
When selecting one, consider your needs and priorities. Do you want pure hydration, added electrolytes for workouts, or spring water for the taste? Here are some tips to help you find your perfect match.
Check the Source
The source and treatment method determines bottled water’s mineral content, taste, and purity. Spring water comes from natural springs and may contain minerals that affect taste. Purified or distilled water is filtered to remove impurities, so it has a neutral taste. Well water is pumped from underground aquifers and can have a range of mineral contents. Choose a source that matches your preferences for purity and taste.
Consider the Minerals
Mineral water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which some people prefer for the taste or perceived health benefits. However, mineral levels can vary between brands and sources. Check the label for details on mineral content and look for a balanced amount. Too many minerals can give water a salty or bitter taste, while too few means you’re just drinking plain water.
Think About Additives
Some bottled waters contain added electrolytes like potassium or sodium for taste and to restore minerals lost in distillation. These can be good for workouts or when you need an energy boost. However, for regular hydration, avoid waters with excessive sugar, artificial sweeteners, or calories. The ingredients list should be short and contain only natural additives.
Check the Quality and Purity
Choose bottled water that meets FDA standards for safety and purity. How and where the water was sourced and treated, should be clearly stated by the label. Avoid generic or private-label brands, as quality standards may be lower. When possible, choose BPA-free bottles, as BPA can leach into the water over time.
By considering these factors, you can find bottled water that satisfies your personal preferences for taste, purity, and mineral content. Changing between a few trusted brands and sources helps ensure you get the hydration you need and enjoy the flavor of your drink. Your body and taste buds will thank you.
FAQs-
Is bottled water regulated?
Yes, it is regulated by the FDA as a packaged food product. The FDA has established standards for bottled water that limit contaminants to the same level as tap water. Some states also have additional regulations on bottled water. Reputable brands like the ones we reviewed adhere to all regulations and quality standards.
Is bottled water safer than tap water?
Not necessarily. Tap water in the U.S. is generally very safe. Bottled water does go through an additional filtration process, so some may prefer its taste or perceive it as cleaner. However, bottled water is not required to be disinfected, so it still may contain some contaminants. For most people, tap water and bottled water are equally safe options. If you have concerns about your local tap water, check with your municipal water provider or have it tested.
Can bottled water expire?
No, it does not have an expiration date, but the plastic bottle it comes in may start to break down over time and affect the taste or quality of the water. As a general rule, bottled water will stay fresh for at least one to two years. The bottle should be used within the suggested period for best quality. It is indicated by the “best by” date on the label. Unopened bottled water may be kept for a very long time if stored properly, but once it’s opened, it should be used within a week.
Is the water in bottles recycled?
Some brands use recycled plastic in their bottles and also have recycling programs to reclaim used bottles. However, the recycling rate for plastic bottles is still quite low, around 29% in the U.S. Many environmental groups recommend using refillable water bottles instead of single-use plastic bottles when possible. If you do choose bottled water, recycle the empty bottles to reduce plastic waste.
What is the difference between spring water and purified water?
Spring water comes from natural underground springs and may contain some minerals, while purified water goes through a filtration process to remove contaminants and minerals. Purified water is usually a bit more processed. In terms of quality and safety, both spring water and purified water that adhere to FDA standards are good options. It mainly comes down to personal preference for taste and mineral content.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the best bottled waters to keep you hydrated, healthy and refreshed. We looked at the top brands, filtering through the hype to find those that are crisp, clean and pure. Hopefully, this gives you a solid shortlist to choose from next time you’re stocking up. Just remember – drink plenty of water every day, don’t rely too much on the bottles, and stay away from added sugars or artificial flavors. Your body will thank you! Ultimately any bottled water is better than sugary sodas or juices, so grab a bottle, take a swig, and hydrate your way to wellness.