Bottled water has long been touted as a convenient and healthy alternative to tap water. According to Statista, a fifth of Americans drink mostly bottled water. In fact, more than 50 million water bottles are used each year.
However, not all bottled water brands are created equal. In recent years, concerns have been raised about the quality, sustainability, and environmental impact of bottled water. From plastic pollution to questionable sourcing practices, there are compelling reasons to reconsider your bottled water choices. Here are 11 brands of bottled water to avoid, along with why you should opt for tap water instead.
1. Dasani
Dasani, a brand owned by The Coca-Cola Company, has faced criticism for its use of tap water sourced from municipal supplies. Additionally, it contains additives such as potassium chloride, magnesium sulfate, and salt, which are not typically found in natural spring water.
In 2021, a class action lawsuit was filed against Dasani, claiming that 100% recyclable bottles are in fact not. The lawsuit was then later dropped.
2. Aquafina
Another major bottled water brand owned by PepsiCo, Aquafina, also sources its water from municipal supplies. Despite its labeling as “pure water,” Aquafina has been subject to scrutiny for its lack of transparency regarding its sourcing and purification processes.
In 2015, the company started to put on its label that the drink comes from tap water. The company says that its water is then further purified after being obtained from public sources.
3. Nestlé Pure Life
Similarly, Nestlé Pure Life has been accused of depleting groundwater sources in communities where it operates bottling plants, leading to environmental concerns and local water shortages. Additionally, the company, along with its parent company, has faced allegations over advertising that their bottles are 100% recyclable.
4. Arrowhead
Also owned by Nestlé, Arrowhead has faced similar criticisms regarding its extraction of groundwater from environmentally sensitive areas, including national forests. The company’s practices have raised concerns about the impact on local ecosystems and communities.
5. Essentia
While Essentia claims that it is, “Overachieving H2O”, some consumers are unimpressed with the brand that compares itself to other premium water brands.
6. Evian
While Evian claims to source its water from a protected underground source in France, it still faces scrutiny for its reliance on single-use plastic bottles and the environmental consequences of its production and distribution processes. Recently, the company has been under fire for the use of its carbon neutral label on its bottles, and if in fact the company has been greenwashing.
7. Voss
Voss water, sourced from an artesian well in Norway, is packaged in sleek glass bottles and marketed as a luxury brand. However, its premium price tag does not negate the environmental impact of single-use glass packaging and international shipping. The company is, however, committed to reducing its carbon footprint.
8. Smartwater
Owned by The Coca-Cola Company, Smartwater has been criticized for its use of vapor-distilled water supplemented with electrolytes. It has been called into question whether modified water has the same nutritional benefits.
9. Poland Spring
Poland Spring, owned by Nestlé, has faced lawsuits alleging false advertising regarding the purity and naturalness of its water. Questions have been raised about the authenticity of its spring sources and the environmental impact of its bottling operations.
10. Ice Mountain
Another Nestlé-owned brand, Ice Mountain, has been accused of depleting groundwater sources in the Great Lakes region, leading to conflicts with local communities and environmental activists.
11. Deer Park
Deer Park, also owned by Nestlé, has faced similar criticisms to other brands for having high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals, or PFAs. PFAs do not break down in the environment, raising environmental concerns.
Ditch The Bottled Water
Instead of relying on bottled water, consider drinking tap water, which is subject to rigorous safety regulations and is often more closely monitored than bottled water. Investing in a reusable water bottle and using a water filtration system can help reduce plastic waste, save money, and ensure access to clean drinking water without contributing to environmental degradation. By making conscious choices about our water consumption, we can work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
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Teri Monroe
Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.
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