The World of Mineral Waters: What Makes Them Special & Top Brands to Try

Mineral water isn't just a fancy bottle on a restaurant table, it's a naturally sourced drink prized for its purity, taste, and potential health benefits. 

But what exactly makes mineral water different from the regular bottled water you see on supermarket shelves? And which brands are worth seeking out?

Let’s take a look.

What Is Mineral Water?

Mineral water comes from a naturally occurring underground spring, rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, and bicarbonate. These minerals are naturally absorbed as the water filters through rock layers over time — no artificial enhancements allowed.

To be legally classified as natural mineral water in the UK and EU, the source must be protected, pollution-free, and the water must be bottled at the source. It cannot be treated except for the removal of unstable elements (e.g. iron or sulphur).

Why People Choose Mineral Water

Many people opt for mineral water due to:

Taste: The mineral content gives each brand a distinctive flavour.

Health perks: High-calcium or magnesium waters may support bone and muscle health.

Digestive benefits: Some sparkling mineral waters aid digestion due to their bicarbonate content.

Leading Mineral Water Brands Around the World

Here are some of the top international and UK mineral water brands, known for quality, taste, and trust:

Evian (France)

Sourced from the French Alps

Light mineral content, smooth taste

Popular worldwide and seen as a premium choice

San Pellegrino (Italy)

Sparkling mineral water with a crisp, slightly salty taste

High in sulphates and calcium

Often seen in fine dining establishments

Gerolsteiner (Germany)

One of the world’s top-selling sparkling mineral waters

High in calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate

Known for its strong fizz and mineral punch

Perrier (France)

Famous for its strong carbonation and green glass bottle

Often used as a mixer or served chilled on its own

Valser (Switzerland)

Bottled from alpine springs

High in minerals, clean and refreshing

Popular across Europe, now owned by Coca-Cola

Highland Spring (Scotland)

One of the UK's best-known mineral water brands

Naturally sourced from the Ochil Hills in Perthshire

Low in sodium and soft in taste

Buxton (England)

Comes from the Peak District

Now owned by Nestlé

Slightly higher mineral content than Highland Spring

Icelandic Glacial (Iceland)

Sourced from the Ölfus Spring in Iceland

Exceptionally pure and low in minerals

Packaged with a focus on sustainability

Hildon (England)

Natural mineral water from the Test Valley in Hampshire

Still and gently sparkling versions

Served at many premium hotels and airlines

Choosing the Right One for You

Low-mineral waters (e.g. Evian, Icelandic Glacial): Ideal for everyday drinking

High-mineral waters (e.g. Gerolsteiner): Great for athletes or people with mineral deficiencies

Sparkling options (e.g. Perrier, San Pellegrino): Perfect for meals or digestion

Local UK brands (e.g. Highland Spring, Buxton): Budget-friendly and widely available

Sustainability Note

Many brands are now making moves towards recycled packaging, carbon neutrality, and locally sourced bottling to reduce environmental impact. Look for brands with sustainability certifications if this is important to you.

Final Sip

Whether you’re after hydration with a hint of luxury or simply want to try something different from tap or filtered water, mineral waters offer a world of choice. From crisp and sparkling to smooth and still, there’s a bottle to suit every taste.

Why not try a few and find your favourite?

The Pros and Cons of Mineral-Infused Waters

Mineral-infused waters have become increasingly popular in recent years, touted for their health benefits and refreshing taste. Whether it's naturally sourced or enriched with additional minerals, these beverages claim to offer more than just hydration. 

But are they worth the hype? Below, we'll explore the pros and cons of mineral-infused waters to help you decide if they're the right choice for your lifestyle.

The Pros of Mineral-Infused Waters

Enhanced Hydration While plain water is always beneficial, mineral-infused waters can potentially provide better hydration, especially for athletes or individuals engaged in strenuous activities. The added electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium help maintain fluid balance, preventing dehydration and supporting muscle function.

Added Nutrients Mineral-infused waters contain essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are vital for various bodily functions. For those who don't get enough of these nutrients through their diet, drinking mineral-infused water could provide a convenient boost.

Improved Taste For those who find regular water bland, mineral-infused waters can offer a more enjoyable flavour without added sugars or artificial ingredients. This could encourage people to drink more water, improving overall hydration.

Natural Sourcing Some mineral-infused waters come from natural springs, boasting a unique mineral profile. These naturally occurring minerals may have been in the earth for centuries, lending an air of purity and sustainability to the product.

Digestive Health Certain minerals found in infused waters, such as magnesium, have been linked to improved digestion and bowel regularity. Drinking these waters could support overall gut health and even reduce bloating.

The Cons of Mineral-Infused Waters

Cost Mineral-infused waters are often significantly more expensive than tap water or regular bottled water. For those on a budget, the price can be hard to justify, especially when tap water in many regions is already safe to drink and provides sufficient hydration.

Not a Substitute for a Balanced Diet While mineral-infused waters can supplement your intake of certain nutrients, they shouldn’t replace a healthy, balanced diet. The amounts of minerals they provide are generally quite small and won’t meet your daily nutritional needs on their own.

Potential Overconsumption While minerals like calcium and magnesium are essential for health, it's possible to consume too much. If you’re already taking supplements or eating a mineral-rich diet, drinking mineral-infused water might lead to excessive intake, which can cause issues like kidney stones or digestive problems.

Environmental Impact Many mineral-infused waters come in single-use plastic bottles, contributing to environmental pollution. While some brands offer eco-friendly packaging or encourage recycling, the environmental cost of packaging and transporting bottled water can still be significant.

Added Sodium Some mineral waters contain higher levels of sodium, which may not be suitable for those with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular conditions. Always check the label to ensure the sodium content fits with your dietary needs.

Mineral-infused waters can be a great addition to your hydration routine, especially if you’re looking for added electrolytes, improved flavour, or a natural source of minerals. However, they do come with some downsides, particularly when it comes to cost and potential overconsumption of certain minerals. As with most things, moderation is key. While mineral-infused waters can offer certain health benefits, they should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and sustainable lifestyle.

Ultimately, the choice to drink mineral-infused water comes down to personal preference, dietary needs, and lifestyle considerations. Whether you're an athlete in need of replenishing electrolytes or simply someone looking for a tastier way to stay hydrated, it's worth weighing the pros and cons before making it a regular part of your routine.