Explore the differences between popular bottled water brands in Ireland, from Evian to Fiji, and understand the mineral contents that make each one unique.
Bottled water sales have been increasing year to year, with an expected growth annually to be 4.38% from 2023-2027.
The bottled water market boasts a wide array of brands, each claiming unique qualities and benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between some popular bottled water brands to help you make an informed choice for your hydration needs.
What are the most common bottled water brands in Ireland?
You may recognise some of these brands of water from your every day life.
Evian
- Origin: Evian hails from the pristine Alps of France, where the water is naturally filtered through glacial rocks.
Volvic
- Origin: The water comes from the Auvergne volcanic region in France.
Deep River Rock
- Origin: Riverrock is sourced from natural springs and aquifers across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Fiji
- Origin: Fiji Water comes from an underground aquifer in the remote Yaqara Valley of Viti Levu, Fiji.
Ballygown
- Origin: The ballygown source is located within ancient carboniferous limestones of south west Limerick, Ireland.
Ishka
- Origin: Every drop of ISHKA Irish Spring Water comes from the undulating and verdant Ballyneety landscape, carefully drawn from protected spring wells.
Understanding the differences between these brands!
Depending on where the water source originates dictates the mineral contents in the water.
Evian: Evian’s mineral composition includes calcium and magnesium, contributing to its balanced taste.
Volvic: Volvic’s mineral content includes potassium, silica, and bicarbonates.
Deep River Rock: Minerals like magnesium, calcium, and bicarbonates.
Fiji: Fiji Water is known for its high silica content.
Ballygown: Ballygown has a mineral profile that includes calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates.
Ishka: This brand contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates.
Ultimately, individual preferences will guide your choice, as taste and mineral content preferences can vary. Water brands may also evolve their water sources and compositions over time, so it’s advisable to consult current information on labels or websites when making your selection.
Table: Mineral Content in the Most Common Branded Bottled Water in Ireland
What benefits do these minerals have?
Magnesium: Magnesium is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, bone health, and energy production. Bottled water with magnesium may contribute to daily magnesium intake, aiding in overall well-being.
Calcium: Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, nerve transmission, and muscle function. Bottled water containing calcium may provide additional dietary calcium, especially for those with calcium deficiencies or lactose intolerance.
Potassium: Potassium plays a role in heart health, blood pressure regulation, and muscle and nerve function. Potassium-rich bottled water may assist individuals in meeting their potassium needs and promoting cardiovascular health.
Sulphates: Sulphates can support liver function and help the body detoxify. Bottled water with sulphates may aid in the natural detoxification process, although these levels are typically not very high.
Bicarbonates: Bicarbonates can help neutralise stomach acid and maintain healthy pH levels in the body. Bottled water with bicarbonates may offer relief from occasional heartburn or indigestion.
Sodium: Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance and proper nerve and muscle function. Sodium levels in bottled water are usually low, making it suitable for those monitoring their sodium intake.
Silica: Silica may promote skin health, strengthen hair and nails, and support bone health. Bottled water with silica can contribute to the body’s silica requirements, which are generally low.
Chlorides: Chlorides are necessary for maintaining proper fluid balance and regulating blood pressure. Chloride levels in bottled water are typically low and unlikely to have significant health impacts.
Nitrates: Nitrates are converted to nitric oxide in the body, which can help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. Some bottled waters may contain nitrates at levels deemed safe for consumption, potentially promoting cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
While all bottled waters share the common goal of providing safe, convenient hydration, the differences among brands lie in their sources, mineral compositions, taste profiles, and sustainability practices. Ultimately, the choice of bottled water comes down to personal preferences, whether you prioritise the taste, mineral content, source, or sustainability efforts of a particular brand. Regardless of which brand you choose, staying hydrated is essential for your well-being, so remember to drink responsibly and consider the unique qualities of each brand to enhance your hydration experience.
