Filtered Water vs. Bottled Water: A Surprising Taste Test

Many people assume that bottled water tastes better than filtered water. After all, bottled water is marketed as pure and refreshing, often sourced from pristine springs or underground reservoirs. However, the truth might surprise you.

The Reality of Bottled Water

Bottled water often comes from the same municipal sources as tap water. While it undergoes additional filtration or treatment, it’s not necessarily superior in taste or quality. Some bottled waters even contain additives, such as minerals or disinfectants, to improve flavor or extend shelf life. Additionally, bottled water is frequently stored in plastic containers for long periods, which can subtly alter its taste, sometimes making it metallic, stale, or even slightly plastic-y.

The Taste Test: Filtered Water vs. Bottled Water

To truly understand the differences, we conducted a simple taste test comparing three common types of drinking water:

1. Carbon-Filtered Water

• Taste: Crisp, clean, and refreshing.
• Why? Carbon filtration removes chlorine, sediment, and other impurities while preserving beneficial minerals. This process enhances the natural flavor of the water, making it an excellent all-around choice for daily hydration.

2. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water with Remineralization

• Taste: Balanced, smooth, and similar to natural spring water.
• Why? Reverse osmosis removes almost all contaminants, including dissolved solids, but can strip beneficial minerals. When remineralized, the water regains a pleasant taste, mimicking high-quality spring water without any impurities.

3. Bottled Water

• Taste: Can be metallic, stale, or slightly plastic-like.
• Why? The long storage time in plastic bottles and the potential for chemical leaching can affect the flavor. Additionally, bottled water can vary significantly in taste depending on the source and the treatment process used.

The Verdict on Filtered Water vs Bottled Water

While bottled water may seem like the premium choice, our taste test suggests otherwise. Carbon-filtered and remineralized RO water provide a fresher, cleaner, and more enjoyable drinking experience without the potential downsides of plastic leaching and stale taste. Moreover, filtering water at home is often more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than constantly purchasing bottled water.

Next time you reach for a drink, consider skipping the bottle and opting for a high-quality water filtration system instead. Your taste buds—and the planet—will thank you!