Enhancing Your Water: Understanding the Minerals Added to Bisleri and Other Mineral Water Brands

Mineral water brands like Bisleri play a crucial role in the global bottled water industry. By adding specific minerals to their water, these brands enhance the taste and provide greater health benefits. Let's explore the common minerals added, their sources, and the regulation surrounding their use.

Common Minerals Added to Mineral Water

Mineral water brands like Bisleri often bolster the natural mineral content of their bottled water to improve taste and offer added health benefits. Some of the most common minerals added include:

Calcium: Essential for bone health. Magnesium: Supports muscle and nerve function. Potassium: Helps regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions. Sodium: Enhances flavor and is crucial for maintaining blood pressure. Bicarbonate: Maintains pH balance and may enhance taste.

Collection of Minerals

The minerals added to bottled water typically originate from several sources. Here is a detailed look at each:

Natural Springs

Some brands source their water from mineral springs where the water naturally contains these minerals. The mineral content can vary based on the geological characteristics of the area. Springs with high mineral content are often utilized for their pure and natural qualities.

Mineral Salts

Other companies opt for mineral salts like potassium chloride, magnesium sulfate, or calcium carbonate to achieve the desired mineral profile. These salts can be sourced from mines or manufactured through chemical processes. By adding or balancing mineral salts, companies can fine-tune the taste and nutritional value of their bottled water.

Water Treatment Processes

In some cases, water treatment processes involve adding minerals back into purified water to enhance its quality and taste. This method ensures that the water maintains a healthy mineral balance and improved taste.

Regulations and Safety Standards

The addition of minerals to bottled water is regulated in many countries to ensure safety and proper labeling. Companies must adhere to strict standards set by food safety authorities regarding the types and amounts of minerals that can be added. This regulation helps protect consumers from potential health risks and ensures transparency in labeling.

Alternatives to Mineral Water

While mineral water provides essential minerals, some may question whether it is necessary to add additional minerals to RO (Reverse Osmosis) purified water. According to market sources, a litre of packaged mineral water typically costs between Rs. 10-12, while natural mineral water starts at about Rs. 20 a litre and can go up to Rs. 125.

On the other hand, RO water, which is chemically pure, may not provide the desired minerals. Pure water is naturally and slightly acidic, making it more likely to dissolve minerals from your body's cells. While this pure water is generally safe to drink, frequent consumption could lead to nutrient deficiencies.

Article Reference: According to Business Insider, drinking distilled water in large quantities can cause overhydration, overheat the body, and even lead to an electrolyte imbalance. Athletes and highly active individuals are particularly vulnerable to these effects.

Conclusion

The addition of minerals to mineral water, like Bisleri, is a deliberate process aimed at enhancing taste and providing health benefits. While there are alternatives, it is essential to consider the source and quality of the water. As consumers, it is crucial to understand the regulations and the broader implications of mineral content in our drinking water.