How to find natural sources of mineral water?
Do not collect water from wild springs to drink without testing it. Safe natural mineral water comes from bottled brands whose label names the source, or from public springs that your local health authority tests. Look for labels that say natural mineral water and name the spring.
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In this article
How do you find natural mineral water?
The safest way is through bottled water whose label names the source, or through public springs that are tested by authorities. Water that looks clean in nature can still carry bacteria, parasites, chemicals or heavy metals.
What does the label tell you?
| Label term | What it means |
|---|---|
| Natural mineral water | Covered in the EU by Directive 2009/54/EC; the label should name the source. Rules differ by country |
| Spring water | Water drunk in its natural state, from an underground source, protected from pollution and bottled at source, with only very limited treatment (FSAI) |
| Purified or drinking water | May be treated water rather than spring water; check the label |
Rules differ by country. In the EU, natural mineral water and spring water are covered by Directive 2009/54/EC, which the FSAI page refers to. Other countries, including the US, set their own definitions, so check the rules where you live.
Steps to find a source
- Read the label for the name of the spring and the place it comes from.
- Check the producer’s website for a mineral analysis, which lists calcium, magnesium, sodium and total dissolved solids.
- Compare analyses if you want a particular mineral profile.
- Buy from a regular retailer, not from roadside sellers.
Public springs and wells
Some places have public springs, often in spa towns. Look for signs that the water is tested, and ask the local council or health department. If there is no testing information, do not drink it.
Risks of wild water
- Bacteria and parasites from animals.
- Runoff from farms or roads.
- High levels of minerals or natural contaminants such as arsenic in some areas.
Boiling kills many germs but does not remove chemicals.
Who needs extra care
Infants, pregnant people, older adults, and anyone with a weak immune system or kidney problems should stick to labeled and tested water. Ask a doctor about high-mineral waters.
General information, not medical advice.
People also ask
Is spring water the same as mineral water?
Not necessarily. Under EU rules spring water comes from an underground source, is protected from pollution and is bottled at source; natural mineral water is a separate legal term, so check the label.
Is it safe to drink from a natural spring?
Not unless it is tested. Natural water can contain germs or chemicals.
How do I know what minerals are in my water?
Check the mineral analysis printed on the label or on the producer's website.
Sources
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