Purified water vs spring water: What sets them apart?

You might have seen bottles labeled “spring water” and wondered how it’s different from “purified water.” Both of them are an equally refreshing drink but go through different journeys to get to your glass.  

Filtration is key for both, removing impurities and unwanted elements. Methods like charcoal filtration to remove chlorine or reverse osmosis to eliminate tiny particles are typically used.  

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However, while filtration improves taste and safety, it doesn’t remove everything. That’s where the differences between spring water and purified water come into play. In this guide, we’ll break them down to help you understand what sets them apart. 

What is the difference between purified water and spring water? 

Deciding between bottled spring water and purified water can be a bit confusing. While both will quench your thirst, they have different origins and processing methods.

Purified water

Purified water starts as any type of water, such as tap or well water. It then goes through a rigorous purification process, using methods like reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionisation. These techniques effectively remove most impurities and contaminants, resulting in water with minimal dissolved minerals and a neutral taste.

Spring water

Spring water, on the other hand, follows a more natural path. It comes from an underground source, such as an aquifer, where it undergoes natural filtration as it flows through rocks and minerals. This natural filtration removes some impurities, but spring water can still contain minerals that contribute to its taste as well as trace amounts of contaminants based on the source. Spring water companies then address this by regularly monitoring and testing their water sources, and if necessary, they may treat the water to remove contaminants. The companies usually bottle the water at its source to preserve its natural taste and mineral content, ensuring it meets safety and quality standards. 

The main difference between spring water and purified water comes down to their sources and treatment processes. Purified water undergoes a controlled, multi-step purification process to achieve high purity, removing impurities like chemicals and bacteria. On the other hand, spring water relies on natural filtration from the earth, coming from underground sources that flow to the earth’s surface. It’s typically collected at the spring or through a well, and is considered naturally pure, often containing minerals that give it a distinct taste.

Both spring water and purified water are regulated for safety, but they vary in taste and mineral content depending on their sources and treatment methods. Purified water tends to have a neutral taste due to the removal of minerals, while spring water may have a more distinctive taste due to its natural mineral content.  

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Ultimately, the choice between spring water and purified water will depend on your personal preference for taste and mineral content. If you prefer water with a neutral taste and minimal mineral content, purified water may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy water with a natural taste and the potential health benefits of natural minerals, spring water might be more suitable for you.