Unmasking the Reality of Bottled Water Brands
If you’ve ever believed that bottled water offers a better taste or purity than tap water, prepare for a splash of truth.
Aquafina: Tap or Not?
PepsiCo’s Aquafina, a popular bottled water brand, is sourced straight from taps. However, PepsiCo emphasizes that their tap water undergoes a rigorous “filtration process,” resulting in a superior quality product. Here’s a pro tip: if you’re aiming to identify if a bottled water brand uses tap water, check for the acronym P.W.S. (Public Water System) on its label.
PepsiCo's Damage Control
Following a revealing article by Inverse magazine, PepsiCo sprung into action, highlighting the multiple filtration methods Aquafina undergoes. Their defense? An elaborate 7-step filtration process outlined on their website. And if you think this tap tale is exclusive to PepsiCo, you’re mistaken. Coca-Cola’s Dasani also originates from tap water. Their defense is a unique 7-step filtration process dubbed Hydro-7™, which employs reverse osmosis and more to achieve its distinct taste.
Nutritional Facts of Aquafina Water
Per 473ml bottle:
- Calories: 0
- Total Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium/Salt: 0%
- Vitamin A: 0%
And no, Aquafina doesn’t contain salt. The filtration process ensures the removal of nearly all elements, potentially leaving behind only minuscule traces of solids or ions.
Bottled vs. Tap Water: Which is Cleaner?
Think bottled water is held to higher cleanliness standards? Think again. A World Wildlife Fund International study in 2013 revealed that bottled water standards in the US and UK are surprisingly less stringent than tap water. Even more unsettling is the revelation from the Natural Resources Defense Council in 1998 that while most bottled water was drinkable, some samples did contain traces of chemicals or bacteria beyond acceptable levels.
Bottom Line on Aquafina
To put it plainly, Aquafina’s primary ingredient is indeed filtered tap water. Now, it’s essential not to demonize tap water; however, it’s equally crucial to be informed about its quality and potential contaminants.
If you’re searching for a sustainable solution, consider investing in a whole house water filtration system or a reliable water filter jug, like AquaTru. Not only is this eco-friendlier and cost-effective in the long run, but it also ensures you have cleaner, filtered water on demand.
In Summary
Before reaching for that bottled water, it’s essential to know its source and the processes it undergoes. Prioritize knowledge, the environment, and, most importantly, your health.
