How does still spring water compare to other types of bottled water?
Spring water comes from an underground formation that flows naturally to the surface. Purified water is treated water, often from a municipal source, processed by distillation, reverse osmosis or filtration. Mineral water has at least 250 ppm dissolved solids from its source. Artesian water comes from a pressurized aquifer.
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How do bottled water types differ?
The FDA sets standards of identity, so the label name tells you how the water is sourced or treated. Here is how still spring water compares with the other main types.
Bottled water types compared
| Type | What it means |
|---|---|
| Spring water | From an underground formation that feeds water naturally to the surface; collected at the spring or through a borehole tapping that same formation |
| Purified water | Water treated by distillation, reverse osmosis or another suitable process |
| Mineral water | At least 250 ppm total dissolved solids, with minerals from the source |
| Artesian water | From a well that taps an aquifer under pressure from surrounding rock or clay |
| Well water | From a bored or drilled hole that taps an aquifer |
Is spring water better than purified?
Not by definition. Both are regulated by the FDA as bottled water. Spring water is defined by where it comes from, and purified water by how it is treated. Taste can differ, since spring water carries what dissolved from its source; try a few brands.
Safety standards
The FDA says its bottled water quality standards are compatible with EPA tap-water standards: when the EPA sets a contaminant limit, the FDA either adopts it for bottled water or decides it is not necessary. Some limits differ; for lead, the bottled water limit is 5 ppb against 15 ppb for public tap water.
What about sparkling, seltzer and tonic?
The FDA classes sparkling water, seltzer, soda water, tonic water and club soda as soft drinks, not as bottled water.
How to choose
- Read the label for the type name and source.
- Compare sodium and mineral content if that matters to you.
- For taste, try a few brands; differences are subtle.
General information. Composition varies by brand.
People also ask
What is the difference between spring and purified water?
Spring water is defined by its natural underground source. Purified water is defined by treatment such as distillation, reverse osmosis or filtration.
Is spring water the same as mineral water?
No. Mineral water must contain at least 250 ppm total dissolved solids from its source.
Is bottled water safer than tap water?
Both are regulated. Bottled water is overseen by the FDA and tap water by the EPA; FDA standards are compatible with EPA's, though some limits differ.
Sources
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