We’re used to seeing clever marketing tricks with food and gadgets, but did you know you even have to be wary of them when it comes to something as basic as water? It might seem like the simplest choice on the shelf, but those bottled water labels are often filled with claims that sound better than they really are. Whether it’s about purity, health benefits, or fancy-sounding sources, these labels can be just as misleading as anything else in the supermarket. Here’s some of the nonsense to watch out for.
Pure or 100% Pure
The label “pure” often gives the impression of superior quality or extra cleanliness. However, most bottled water is just filtered tap water. The term “pure” isn’t regulated, so it can be used freely without any specific standards. In reality, this water is likely no different than what flows from your kitchen faucet after passing through a standard filter.
Natural Spring Water
“Spring water” conjures images of fresh mountain springs, but the reality is often less picturesque. While it does come from underground sources, these sources can be treated and processed similarly to tap water. The label “natural” is not a guarantee of purity or minimal processing; it simply means the water originated from a spring, but it doesn’t tell you what’s been done to it before bottling.
Enhanced with Electrolytes
Bottled waters with “added electrolytes” sound appealing, especially for athletes. However, the electrolytes added are often in such small amounts that they don’t significantly affect hydration or energy levels. Typically, these are added for taste, not for a substantial health benefit. You’d get more electrolytes from a balanced meal or a specialized sports drink if needed.
pH Balanced
The claim of “pH balanced” water suggests it’s better for your body, but this is mostly marketing. Your body naturally regulates pH levels regardless of the water you drink. While some people believe alkaline water can neutralize acid in the body, there’s little scientific evidence to support this for most healthy individuals. Drinking pH-balanced water offers no significant health advantage.
Oxygenated Water
“Oxygenated water” is promoted as boosting energy and improving performance. However, water can only hold a small amount of extra oxygen, which is unlikely to have any noticeable impact on your energy levels. Your lungs are much more efficient at getting oxygen into your bloodstream, making this claim more about hype than actual health benefits.
Vitamin-Enhanced
Bottled water with added vitamins might seem like a convenient way to get nutrients, but the levels of vitamins added are often minimal and don’t contribute much to your daily intake. Additionally, vitamins are best absorbed from whole foods, where they come with other nutrients that aid absorption. Paying extra for vitamin-enhanced water is often unnecessary if you have a balanced diet.
Gluten-Free
Water is naturally gluten-free, so seeing this label on bottled water is redundant. It’s a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities, but since all water is gluten-free, this label doesn’t offer any additional benefit. It’s often used to attract health-conscious consumers, even though it’s not adding any real value.
BPA-Free
BPA-free labels are important, but many “BPA-free” plastic bottles may still contain other chemicals like BPS, which can have similar health risks. While avoiding BPA is wise, it’s also important to consider alternatives like stainless steel or glass containers, which avoid the risks associated with all plastic chemicals. The “BPA-free” label is a good start, but it doesn’t guarantee a chemical-free experience.
Sourced from a Protected Spring
“Protected spring” sounds like a safe and untouched source, but this term isn’t strictly regulated. The spring could be in an industrial area or heavily treated before bottling. While it implies a certain level of protection from contamination, the label doesn’t guarantee superior quality or purity. It’s more about the source’s image than the water’s actual cleanliness.
Zero Calories
All water is naturally calorie-free, so labeling it as “zero calories” is just stating the obvious. This label doesn’t offer any new information or health benefit, but it’s often used to make the product seem healthier or more appealing, even though it’s a standard feature of all water. It’s a classic example of marketing stating the obvious to make you feel good about your choice.
Pastured Eggs: The Real Deal or Marketing Gimmick?
When it comes to eggs, the term “pastured” often sparks heated debates. Are these eggs really the nutritional powerhouse they’re claimed to be, or is it just clever marketing at work? Here are all the details you should know before your next trip to the grocery store.
Read it Here: Pastured Eggs: The Real Deal or Marketing Gimmick?
Chicken Label Lies: What Matters and What Doesn’t
Navigating the labels on chicken at the grocery store can be confusing. With so many different claims, it’s hard to know what’s real and what’s just clever marketing. Let’s cut through the nonsense and get to the truth. Some labels are pure fluff, while others provide important information about what you’re eating. If you’ve ever stood in front of the chicken aisle with a confused look upon your face, here’s everything you need to know.
Read it Here: Chicken Label Lies: What Matters and What Doesn’t
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
