Varieties of Packaged Drinking Water
Explore the history, types, and quality standards of bottled water. From purification methods to popular brands, learn how bottled water remains a vital and convenient hydration source worldwide, especially where clean tap water is scarce or unsafe.
Convenient and portable, bottled water allows consumers to access safe drinking water on the go, eliminating the need to search for public fountains or taps. Whether during travel or daily errands, bottled water provides a reliable hydration source.
History of Bottled Drinking Water
Humans have been transporting water in containers for thousands of years. The earliest recorded commercial bottling began in 17th-century Britain with Malvern Spring Water, sourced from the Holy Well on Malvern Hills, believed to possess healing properties.
By 1622, bottled Malvern water was available locally, and brands like Schweppes later marketed bottled mineral waters. The popularity of mineral spas fueled further demand for bottled water, especially those rich in minerals. Innovations like carbonation mimicked natural bubbly spring water, enhancing appeal.
In the 19th century, bottled water gained traction as a safer alternative to contaminated tap water, reducing waterborne illnesses. Although chlorination improved public water safety, bottled water remains popular, especially for travelers. It ranks as America's second-most-consumed beverage.
Brands vary by source, including artesian and spring water, and by processing methods like distillation or purification. These differences influence flavor and mineral content.
Types of Bottled Water
Based on source and processing, bottled water falls into several categories:
Purified Water
Extracted from any source, then purified through distillation or reverse osmosis to eliminate impurities and contaminants.
Distilled Water
Produced by boiling water into steam and then condensing it back into liquid, removing minerals and microorganisms.
Municipal Water (PWS)
Tap water that undergoes additional purification to ensure safety before bottling.
Artesian & Spring Water
Collected from underground sources; artesian water is obtained from wells tapping into natural rock reservoirs, while spring water flows from naturally occurring underground springs.
Mineral Water
Naturally sourced water containing approximately 250 ppm of dissolved solids, rich in minerals.
Quality Indicators for Bottled Water
Popular brands like Aquafina, Crystal Geyser, Dasani, Evian, and Nestlé Pure Life are known for their quality, usually evaluated based on pH levels, taste, and packaging. The ideal pH is neutral around 7.0, neither acidic nor alkaline, to avoid dental erosion or esophageal issues.
Taste tests often favor brands like Resource Spring Water, Fiji Artesian Water, and Crystal Geyser, which show no added flavors. Packaging preferences include sturdy bottles and eco-friendly cartons, appreciated by consumers.
Access to pure and safe drinking water remains a challenge worldwide due to contamination and infrastructure limitations. Despite safe tap water in many developed countries, bottled water continues to serve as a convenient hydration solution during travel or daily activities.
