Bottled water is available in several different forms, each with its own unique characteristics. While one type isn't necessarily better than another, the most common bottled water types are highlighted below:

Drinking Water
This type of water can come from a variety sources, including an approved potable water source such as a municipal water supply.  It may undergo additional treatment, such as ozonation or filtration.

Purified Water
This type of water is produced through reverse osmosis, deionization or other process so that it meets the definition of "purified water" in the United States Pharmacopoeia.  The amount of metals and minerals in purified water may be lower than other types of bottled water.

Spring Water
This type of water comes from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the Earth's surface.  It can contain minerals and other substances that are naturally occurring in the area from which the water is being drawn.

Mineral Water

This type of water comes from an underground formation that is physically and geologically protected. It can contain minerals and other substances that are naturally occurring in the area from which the water is being drawn. No minerals may be added to it.

In the U.S, bottled water products are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a food product. The FDA has established official Standards of Identify for bottled water, as well as guidelines that limit the amount of impurities that can be present. It is important to note that terms such as pure or natural are advertising terms and do not necessarily indicate quality or type.

A complete list of bottled water brands that are currently NSF Certified is posted on the NSF Consumer web site. 

Click here for further information about how NSF Certification can help when looking to purchase bottled water or other beverages.