Is Spring Water Purified? Understanding the Difference Between Water Types

When shopping for bottled water, you’ve likely noticed labels claiming “spring water” or “purified water” and wondered about the differences. One common question many people ask is: “Is spring water purified?” Understanding the distinction between these water types can help you make informed choices about your hydration.

The short answer is that spring water undergoes natural purification processes, while purified water goes through mechanical filtration. However, the full explanation is more nuanced and worth exploring in detail.

Understanding Spring Water: Nature’s Filtration System

Spring water is not technically “purified” in the conventional sense, but it does undergo natural filtration. This water originates from underground aquifers and naturally rises to the earth’s surface through springs. During its journey underground, the water passes through various layers of rock, sand, and minerals that act as natural filters.

The natural filtration process occurs as water travels through geological formations including limestone, sandstone, and clay. These materials help remove certain impurities and can add beneficial minerals to the water. This is why spring water often contains naturally occurring minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Spring water must be collected either at the spring opening where it naturally flows to the surface or through a borehole that taps directly into the underground source. By regulatory definition, spring water must come from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface.

What Does “Purified Water” Actually Mean?

Purified water refers to water that has been mechanically processed to remove impurities and contaminants. This water can originate from any source, including municipal tap water, groundwater, or even spring water, but it must undergo specific treatment processes.

The purification process is designed to remove various contaminants including:

• Bacteria and viruses
• Chemical pollutants and toxins
• Heavy metals such as lead and copper
• Chlorine and chloramine
• Pesticides and herbicides
• Dissolved solids and minerals

How Is Water Purified? Common Treatment Methods

Several methods are used to purify water, each targeting different types of contaminants:

Reverse Osmosis

This process forces water through semi-permeable membranes that trap contaminants while allowing water molecules to pass through. Reverse osmosis is highly effective at removing dissolved minerals, heavy metals, and many chemical contaminants.

Distillation

Distillation involves heating water until it evaporates into steam, leaving behind contaminants. The steam is then cooled and condensed back into liquid water. This method removes minerals, bacteria, viruses, and most chemical pollutants.

Carbon Filtration

Activated carbon filters work by attracting and trapping contaminants as water passes through. They’re particularly effective at removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds, and improving taste and odor.

UV Treatment

Ultraviolet light disinfection uses UV rays to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms without adding chemicals to the water.

Ozonation

This process infuses ozone gas into water to disinfect it. Many bottled water companies prefer ozonation over chlorination because it doesn’t leave a distinct taste or odor.

Regulatory Standards: Safety First

Both spring water and purified water sold in the United States must meet strict safety standards established by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The FDA regulates bottled water as a food product and sets specific standards for contaminant levels, manufacturing processes, and labeling requirements. The EPA establishes drinking water standards that apply to public water systems.

For water to be labeled as “purified,” it must meet specific criteria showing that certain contaminants have been reduced to very low levels or removed entirely. The water must contain no more than 10 parts per million of total dissolved solids.

Key Differences Between Spring Water and Purified Water

Source

Spring water must come from an underground source and flow naturally to the surface. Purified water can come from any source, including municipal supplies, wells, or springs.

Treatment Process

Spring water relies primarily on natural geological filtration, though it may undergo minimal processing to ensure safety. Purified water undergoes extensive mechanical filtration and treatment processes.

Mineral Content

Spring water typically retains naturally occurring minerals picked up during its underground journey. Purified water, especially when processed through reverse osmosis or distillation, has most or all minerals removed.

Taste Profile

Spring water often has a distinct taste due to its mineral content, which varies depending on the source. Purified water typically has a neutral, clean taste with no mineral flavors.

Is One Better Than the Other?

Neither spring water nor purified water is inherently superior—both are safe drinking options when they meet regulatory standards. Your choice depends on personal preferences and specific needs:

Choose Spring Water If You:

• Prefer water with naturally occurring minerals
• Enjoy the distinct taste of mineral water
• Want to support natural water sources
• Appreciate minimal processing

Choose Purified Water If You:

• Prefer water with a neutral taste
• Want maximum contaminant removal
• Need water with minimal dissolved solids
• Have concerns about specific contaminants in your local water supply

What About Tap Water?

In most developed countries, tap water is a form of purified water. Municipal water treatment plants use various purification processes including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to ensure water safety.

The quality of tap water can vary by location, but it must meet EPA standards for safety. Many people choose to further filter their tap water at home using pitcher filters, faucet-mounted filters, or under-sink filtration systems.

Environmental Considerations

When choosing between bottled spring water and purified water, it’s worth considering environmental impact. Bottled water production requires significant resources including plastic manufacturing, water extraction, and transportation.

If environmental concerns are important to you, consider:

• Drinking filtered tap water when possible
• Using refillable bottles instead of single-use plastic
• Choosing brands with sustainable practices
• Recycling water bottles properly
• Investing in a home water filtration system

Making Your Decision: Factors to Consider

Taste Preference

Taste is subjective and varies from person to person. Some people prefer the mineral taste of spring water, while others favor the clean, neutral taste of purified water. Try both to determine your preference.

Cost

Prices vary by brand and source, but generally, purified water may be less expensive than spring water since it can be sourced from municipal supplies rather than specific natural springs.

Availability

Consider what’s readily available in your area. If you have access to high-quality tap water, a home filtration system might be the most convenient and cost-effective option.

Health Goals

If you’re looking to increase your mineral intake, spring water provides naturally occurring minerals. If you’re on a low-mineral diet for medical reasons, purified water might be more appropriate. Consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific dietary needs.

Tips for Staying Properly Hydrated

Regardless of which type of water you choose, the most important thing is drinking enough water throughout the day. Here are some practical tips:

• Carry a reusable water bottle with you
• Set regular reminders to drink water
• Drink water before, during, and after physical activity
• Monitor your urine color—pale yellow indicates good hydration
• Drink water when you feel thirsty
• Replace sugary beverages with water
• Eat water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables
• Flavor your water with fresh fruit or herbs if plain water seems boring

Common Misconceptions About Water Purity

Myth: Spring Water Is Always Pure

While spring water is naturally filtered, it still requires testing and may need treatment to meet safety standards. Natural doesn’t automatically mean contaminant-free.

Myth: Purified Water Is Unhealthy Because It Lacks Minerals

While purified water has fewer minerals than spring water, most people get adequate minerals from their diet. Drinking purified water won’t cause mineral deficiencies in people eating a balanced diet.

Myth: All Bottled Water Is the Same

Different types of bottled water—spring, purified, mineral, artesian—undergo different processes and come from different sources. Always check the label to understand what you’re drinking.

Myth: Expensive Water Is Always Better

Price doesn’t necessarily correlate with quality or safety. Both expensive spring water and affordable purified water must meet the same safety standards.

Home Water Treatment Options

If you prefer drinking purified water but want to avoid bottled water, several home treatment options are available:

Pitcher Filters

These affordable, easy-to-use filters sit in your refrigerator and use activated carbon to improve taste and remove some contaminants.

Faucet-Mounted Filters

These attach directly to your faucet and provide filtered water on demand, offering convenience and reducing plastic waste.

Under-Sink Systems

More comprehensive than pitcher filters, these systems connect to your plumbing and can include multiple filtration stages.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

These provide the highest level of home purification, removing most contaminants but also requiring more maintenance and producing wastewater.

Whole-House Filters

These systems treat all water entering your home, ensuring filtered water from every tap, shower, and appliance.

The Bottom Line

So, is spring water purified? Spring water undergoes natural purification through geological filtration, but it’s not “purified water” in the technical sense. Purified water specifically refers to water that has been mechanically processed to remove contaminants.

Both spring water and purified water are safe, regulated options that can keep you properly hydrated. The best choice depends on your personal taste preferences, budget, health goals, and environmental values. What matters most is that you’re drinking enough water daily to support your overall health and wellbeing.

Whether you choose the mineral-rich taste of spring water, the clean neutrality of purified water, or filtered tap water from your home, you’re making a positive choice for your health by staying hydrated.

Sources:

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Bottled Water Regulations
• Environmental Protection Agency – Drinking Water Standards
• U.S. Geological Survey – Springs and the Water Cycle
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Water Treatment
• FDA – Bottled Water Quality Standards