Natural Mineral Water vs Spring Water: What is the Real Difference?

Have you ever wondered what sets Natural Mineral Water apart from spring water? With so many bottles of water on the market, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the variety of choices available. 

Natural mineral water and spring water have unique characteristics that make them distinct. In this article, we’ll get into the specifics of mineral vs spring water, shedding light on their differences to help you make an informed choice for your hydration needs. 

Whether you’re seeking rich mineral content or a refreshing natural taste, understanding the differences can guide you towards the perfect bottled water for your lifestyle.

At a Glance: Key Differences Between Natural Mineral and Spring Water

• Source: Natural Mineral Water is from protected underground sources; spring water can be a ground water that is heavily filtered to remove sediments.
• Mineral Content: Natural Mineral Water has a stable, labelled mineral composition; spring water’s composition isn’t required to be listed.
• Safety: Both must be free from contaminants and meet stringent safety standards.
• Treatment: Natural Mineral Water undergoes minimal treatment; spring water is collected at the source.
• Examples: Natural Mineral Water (Evian, Hepar); spring water (Highland Spring, Volvic).

What is Natural Mineral Water?

Natural Mineral Water is a specific type of bottled water that comes from a protected underground source and contains various minerals and trace elements, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. This composition provides Natural Mineral Water with its distinctive taste and potential health benefits.

Key Characteristics of Natural Mineral Water

1. Microbiological Purity: Natural Mineral Water must maintain its natural purity from the source to the bottle. This means that its mineral properties remain consistent and are not altered during the bottling process. The water can then state ‘Natural’ + ‘Mineral’ on the label.

2. Stable Composition: The mineral content of the water must be stable and clearly labelled on the packaging. The name of the source must also be the most prominent thing on the bottle’s label.

3. Treatment Rules: There are only a few permitted treatments for Natural Mineral Water to ensure its safety and quality. These treatments include filtration to remove unstable elements and decantation to separate unwanted particles. Treatments using ozone-enriched air or activated alumina are also allowed under strict conditions to remove specific contaminants like iron, manganese, and fluoride.

4. Official Recognition: Natural Mineral Water must be officially recognised by the relevant local authority. This involves a rigorous testing and validation process to ensure the water meets all necessary standards for natural Natural Mineral Water. 

5. Bottling at the Source: To avoid contamination, Natural Mineral Water must be bottled at the site of the spring. The source must also be tested for up to two years to earn classification.

Regulatory Standards

In Europe, the standards for Natural Mineral Water are particularly stringent. The water must come from an underground source protected from pollution and free from parasites and disease-causing bacteria. Additionally, the water composition must remain consistent over time, and any treatment methods must be authorised at the EU level.

What is Spring Water?

Spring water is bottled water that originates from an underground source. A spring water can also be a ground water that is heavily filtered to remove sediments, it is therefore expected that the mineral content can fluctuate.

Key Characteristics of Spring Water

1. Source: Spring water comes from an underground source that is tapped at a natural or drilled exit. Unlike Natural Mineral Water, it does not have to be bottled at the source.

2. Safety: To be classified as spring water, it must be free of parasites and bacteria that cause disease. The source must be protected from pollution and be safe to drink.

Regulatory Standards

Spring water must comply with stringent testing to ensure it meets chemical, microbiological, and radiological standards. This helps in verifying that the water is safe for consumption. Unlike Natural Mineral Water, it is not mandatory to state the composition of spring water on the label. Spring Water can be considered a marketing brand first and a water of microbiological purity second.

What are Some Examples?

At Aqua Amore, we offer a diverse selection of bottled waters to cater to every palate and preference. Our extensive range includes both Natural Mineral Water and spring water, ensuring that our customers have access to the finest quality hydration options.

• Natural Mineral Water: 22 Artesian, Belu, Deeside, Eira, Evian, Fiuggi, Hepar, Pedras Salgadas, Vals, Vichy Catalan and so many more.
  
• Spring Water: Avalis, Highland Spring, Kingsdown, Radnor Hills, Tau, Volvic, Voss, Whitehole Springs and more.

Aqua Amore allows you to easily filter your search by classification to explore our extensive range of Natural Mineral Water and spring waters. Browse through your favourites or discover a new taste with just a click.

Natural Mineral Water vs Spring Water: The Bottom Line

Both Natural Mineral Water and spring water are excellent and safe choices for hydration. Each type contains beneficial minerals that can support your health. The differences between Natural Mineral Water and spring water affect their taste and mineral makeup, making each unique. 

Your choice between the two should be based on your personal preferences and health needs. Always check the source of your water to ensure it’s clean and safe. No matter which type you choose, the most important thing is to stay hydrated and enjoy the refreshing benefits of these natural waters.