In 2017, consumers looking for the best bottled water to drink 2017 faced a crowded market with new mineral profiles and stricter sourcing claims. This year highlighted brands that balanced purity, taste, and transparent sustainability practices, giving shoppers more data to choose confidently.
The following breakdown organizes the top options by taste profile, source type, and price, helping you compare features and values at a glance without sifting through multiple reviews.
| Brand | Source Type | Taste Description | 2017 Price per 12-Pack (USD) | Key Certification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiji Natural Artesian Water | Artesian aquifer | Soft, clean, slightly sweet | 14.99 | Fiji FDA |
| Evian Natural Spring Water | Spring (ground source) | Crisp, mineral-balanced | 16.49 | NSF Evian |
| Gerber Ultra Purified Water | Purified (multistage) | Neutral, smooth | 7.99 | NSF Purified |
| Smartwater Alkaline | Purified with electrolytes | Light, crisp | 8.99 | NSF Purified |
Source Types and Water Origins
Understanding the best bottled water to drink 2017 begins with source types such as artesian, spring, and purified. Each origin influences mineral content, mouthfeel, and how consumers perceive purity.
Artesian waters are tapped from confined aquifers, offering consistent, gentle mineral profiles without surface exposure. Spring waters flow naturally to the surface or are collected via borehole, often delivering more distinctive minerality. Purified waters undergo filtration and treatment to remove impurities, resulting in a clean, neutral taste favored by those prioritizing consistency.
Taste Tests and Blind Panels in 2017
Independent taste panels in 2017 compared brands side by side, focusing on mouthfeel, aftertaste, and mineral perception. These evaluations helped identify which options stood out for everyday drinking and culinary use.
Key Findings from Blind Panel Ratings
- Fiji and Evian were noted for a round, pleasant mouthfeel.
- Smartwater Alkaline scored high on crispness and low on residue.
- Gerber Ultra Purified was favored by those preferring a very light profile.
Price, Value, and Retail Availability
Price per liter and bundle options in 2017 varied significantly, with premium artesian sources sitting at a higher point on the best bottled water to drink 2017 value scale. Cost-conscious shoppers balanced this against certifications and taste preferences.
Large retailers expanded shelf space for alkaline and electrolyte-enhanced options, reflecting shifting consumer priorities toward functionality and perceived performance benefits beyond basic hydration.
Environmental Claims and Sustainability
In 2017, bottled water brands faced closer scrutiny over packaging, carbon footprint, and source stewardship. Shoppers began weighing product quality against bottle materials, recycling programs, and water-source transparency.
Brands investing in lightweight bottles, partially recycled content, and third-party sustainability audits gained favor among environmentally minded buyers seeking a responsible best bottled water to drink 2017 choice.
Product Specifications and Quality Standards
Specifications such as pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and purification method are central when comparing the best bottled water to drink 2017. These details help explain why one option tastes smoother or meets stricter regulatory benchmarks.
| Brand | pH Range | TDS (ppm) | Primary Treatment | Bottle Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiji Natural Artesian | 7.7 | 210 | Filtration | Plastic |
| Evian Natural Spring | 7.2 | 320 | Spring collection | Plastic |
| Gerber Ultra Purified | 7.0 | 10 | Reverse osmosis | Plastic |
| Smartwater Alkaline | 8.0 | 50 | Purification + electrolytes | Plastic |
Making Your Final Choice for 2017
Match your priorities—source origin, mineral balance, price, and environmental impact—to narrow the best bottled water to drink 2017 options. This alignment ensures each purchase supports both personal taste and broader values.
- Identify your preferred taste, whether crisp, neutral, or mineral-forward.
- Compare price per liter and bundle sizes across retailers.
- Review certifications such as NSF and FDA for safety assurance.
- Consider bottle materials and brand sustainability commitments.
- Test small packs first to confirm flavor preferences before bulk buys.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which brand offers the most balanced mineral profile for everyday drinking in 2 Evian Natural Spring Water
Evian Natural Spring Water stands out for its balanced mineral content, including calcium and magnesium, delivering a crisp taste that suits daily hydration without being overly heavy.
Is purified water from Gerber Ultra Purified safe and gentle for regular family use
Yes, Gerber Ultra Purified undergoes rigorous reverse osmosis and filtration, removing most impurities while maintaining a smooth, gentle profile suitable for regular family consumption.
How does Smartwater Alkaline compare in taste to traditional purified options
Smartwater Alkaline tastes noticeably crisper and lighter than traditional purified waters due to its electrolytes and higher pH, leaving less of a coated feeling in the mouth.
What sustainability features should I look for when choosing the best bottled water to drink 2017
Look for brands using lightweight recycled plastics, supporting local water-source stewardship, and publishing clear metrics on carbon footprint and bottle recovery programs.