It’s important to know the differences between spring water and purified water because not all water is created equal. There are significant differences when it comes to their source, the composition of the water, and treatment.
Spring water comes from underground, while purified water undergoes a treatment process such as distillation or reverse osmosis in order to remove impurities that often come from tap water.
It’s important to know that both are safe to drink, but which one is best for you and your family? There are certain advantages with each, so let’s take a closer look at what those differences are and how you pick the right one for your family.
Breaking down the differences and what parents should know
Spring water comes directly from a natural, underground water source. This is typically known as an aquifer. There are layers of permeable rock, containing high mineral content groundwater.
The water doesn’t go through the traditional mains water system of processing and chemical treatment. As such, there are strict regulations in place to ensure that the water itself is 100% pure, drinkable, and bottled at the source where it’s found.
It’s considered one of the best forms of water to drink because it contains vital and natural nutrients that our bodies need.
Spring water is only spring water if it comes from an underground source that’s bottled at a natural or drilled exit. It has to be free from any bacteria that cause diseases, and the source is protected from pollution.
Purified water is a little different and can come from multiple sources. It’s been treated to remove all bacteria and impurities, making it safe to drink.
You’ve often got fewer natural minerals in purified water due to the treatment typically stripping many of them out. More chemicals are often added to make it safe to drink.
There are occasions where the purified water may be given extra treatment in order to make it suitable for use in different sectors. Like the pharmaceutical and food processing industries, for example.
So which one is best? Well, for both spring and purified water, it’s all about water filtration. While spring water has been naturally filtered through various underground aquifers, purified water goes through a strict treatment and filtration process, too.
Both are excellent sources of hydration, but while purified water is classed as pure, spring water can be better for you.
The role of spring water distributors in quality and taste
Spring water distributors play an important role when it comes to bottling water at the source. It helps to preserve its taste and purity while also adhering to the strict regulations in order to maintain its quality. Here are some of the benefits that come with selecting spring water:
Bottled at source
With distributors bottling water straight away, at the underground source, you prevent it from being pumped through any pipes or exposed to any sort of contamination that could alter its natural qualities and taste.
Mineral content
With spring water, it naturally contains a unique composition of minerals and compounds. This influences its taste, which distributors will strive to preserve to keep all of that natural goodness locked in.
Natural filtration
Natural filtration is important because it filters through a lot of rock and soil, which removes the impurities and contributes to its clean and refreshing taste profile that you’d expect with spring water.
Strict standards
As with anything that’s sold or distributed, it’s set to strict standards and regulations. Depending on the country it’s in, these standards and regulations are in place to protect the public, so you can expect spring water to have and need a high standard of purity and safety before it’s given to people.
Ongoing investment
Ongoing investments are being made in maintaining the standards that are required when it comes to testing, quality control, and compliance procedures, given to distributors.
Impact on taste
The impact on taste is noticeable, and by bottling water at the source, distributors can help to preserve the water’s unique and authentic flavor profile.
Different spring sources will have varying combinations and minerals and compounds. That can lead to distinct tastes, whether that’s a saltier taste, a bitter one, or even a sweet-tasting water.
How to choose what’s best for your family
When it comes to choosing between spring and purified water, there are a number of considerations to make. From cost to the distinct taste you’re after, here are some considerations to make in choosing what’s best for your family.
Whether you choose a spring water distributor or a purified one, it’s good to know which one works for you and your loved ones.
Natural minerals and taste
Spring water is often filtered through underground aquifers and contains a unique blend of minerals that gives it a distinct and refreshing flavor profile.
Some consumers will prefer the unique flavor that is achieved through spring water, whereas there’s a different taste that comes with filtered water.
Purity and consistency
If you’re looking for purity and consistency within your water content, then filtered water often undergoes an additional treatment that helps to remove impurities and contaminants. This results in a more consistent and natural taste, with a higher level of purity too.
Cost-effectiveness and environmental impact
A home filtration system provides purified water directly from the tap. This eliminates the ongoing cost and plastic waste that’s often associated with bottled water.
If you are someone who is conscious about the environmental impact you and your family are causing, then spring water might be your favored option.
Control over your water quality
It’s good to have control over your water quality, which is why you might want to consider a home filtration system. That way, you can get purified water delivered directly to your tap. This eliminates the need for buying bottled water and perhaps contributes more to the environment.
At the same time, filtration systems help you to target specific contaminants based on your water quality needs.
Water is an important part of keeping you healthy and hydrated, so pick your water source wisely.
The owners and authors of Cinnamon Hollow are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
