While bottled water may seem like a safe and healthy option, not all brands are created equal. Some bottled waters are heavily processed, contain questionable additives, or come in packaging that may leach harmful chemicals. Others may simply be glorified tap water with a premium price tag. If you’re aiming to stay hydrated without compromising your health, here are some of the worst bottled water brands to watch out for—and why they’re best left on the shelf.
Aquafina
Aquafina, owned by PepsiCo, is one of the most recognizable bottled water brands in the world. However, it’s essentially purified tap water that has undergone a filtration process. While this makes it safe to drink, it lacks the natural minerals found in spring or mineral waters, which some people prefer for taste and health benefits.
Additionally, Aquafina has faced criticism for its low pH level, often testing around 5.5–6, which is on the acidic side. Over time, consuming acidic water could potentially impact dental enamel or contribute to an imbalanced internal pH if not offset by other dietary sources.
Dasani
Dasani, a Coca-Cola product, is another widely sold bottled water that’s essentially filtered municipal tap water. What sets Dasani apart—in a negative way—is the addition of magnesium sulfate, potassium chloride, and sodium to enhance taste. While these minerals are not inherently harmful, they can give the water a strange or salty aftertaste, and the added sodium may be concerning for people on low-sodium diets.
Furthermore, like Aquafina, Dasani has a low pH level, often in the 5.5–6 range, making it slightly acidic. Its controversial ingredient list and acidic profile have led some consumers to question its health value compared to more naturally sourced options.
Nestlé Pure Life
Nestlé Pure Life is marketed as a family-friendly option, but it’s another tap water-based brand that undergoes filtration and is re-mineralized. Though the company claims to add minerals for taste, critics argue that the source and processing make it a less “natural” product than advertised.
Environmental and ethical concerns also surround the brand. Nestlé has been criticized for excessive water extraction in drought-prone areas and for contributing to plastic pollution, making the brand a poor choice for eco-conscious consumers and those looking for ethically sourced hydration.
Smartwater
Smartwater is vapor-distilled water with added electrolytes, marketed as a premium, wellness-focused beverage. However, the distillation process strips away all naturally occurring minerals, and the added electrolytes are primarily for taste—not necessarily health benefits.
This ultra-purified water also tends to be more acidic than other bottled waters, with a pH often below 6. While not dangerous for occasional use, regularly consuming distilled, demineralized water may be less hydrating and potentially unbalanced when compared to natural spring water with beneficial mineral content.
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