Flow vs. 1907Water: Which Bottled Water is Better?

Unbiased Comparison of Premium Bottled Waters

When it comes to consumer choice in bottled water, two brands that often come up are Flow and 1907water. They stand out not just for their quality but also for their distinct branding and taste profiles. Flow offers a crisp and refreshing taste that many find more appealing than other boxed waters, making it a favorite among those who prioritize flavor.

1907water, on the other hand, boasts a pure, natural taste derived from its artesian source. The smoothness of 1907water makes it a strong contender for those who appreciate a more neutral and clean-tasting water. Both brands emphasize eco-friendly packaging, which is an added benefit for environmentally conscious consumers.

Choosing between Flow and 1907water ultimately depends on personal preference and taste. Some might prefer the slight crispness of Flow, while others might lean towards the pure, smooth experience of 1907water.

Understanding Bottled Water

Bottled water comes in various types, each with different regulations and environmental impacts. Consumers should be aware of the specific characteristics and implications of their choices.

Types of Bottled Water

There are several types of bottled water available on the market.

Spring water is sourced from underground formations where water flows naturally to the surface.

Mineral water contains dissolved minerals and must be bottled at the source.

Purified water undergoes processes like distillation, deionization, or reverse osmosis to remove impurities.

Each type offers unique benefits and characteristics, catering to diverse consumer preferences.

Bottled Water Regulations

Bottled water regulations in the United States are overseen primarily by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA ensures that bottled water meets specific safety and quality standards.

Bottled water must comply with the EPA's tap water standards but often follows stricter guidelines. Producers must accurately label their products regarding source and treatment.

Ensuring compliance helps maintain consumer trust and safety.

Environmental Impact

Bottled water's environmental impact is significant, particularly concerning plastic waste. The production and disposal of plastic bottles contribute substantially to environmental pollution.

Plastic waste from bottled water is a widespread issue, with millions of bottles ending up in landfills and oceans annually. Recycling rates are low, exacerbating the problem.

Opting for reusable bottles or filtered water can mitigate these environmental concerns.

The Brands: Flow and 1907water

Flow and 1907water represent two distinct paths in the bottled water industry, emphasizing unique origins and environmentally-friendly practices. Both brands aim to offer high-quality water, yet they vary in source types and sustainability initiatives.

Brand Origins and Philosophy

Flow: Flow is a Canadian brand focused on providing naturally alkaline water. The company prides itself on health benefits and a wellness-driven philosophy. Flow sources its water from an artesian spring in Canada.

1907water: 1907water hails from New Zealand, where it emphasizes purity and a commitment to nature. The brand claims its water is sourced from a deep aquifer, untouched by modern contaminants, and highlights a philosophy rooted in natural preservation.

Source and Water Types

Flow: Flow’s water comes from an artesian spring, which is naturally alkaline with a pH level of 8.1. The spring's underground pressure wards off external contaminants, resulting in clean, mineral-rich water.

1907water: 1907water is sourced from a deep New Zealand aquifer, offering naturally mineralized water with a balanced pH of 7.8. The aquifer’s depth protects the water from pollutants, ensuring a pristine source.

Packaging and Sustainability Efforts

Flow: Flow uses cartons made from primarily renewable materials. The packaging features an eco-friendly design aimed at reducing plastic waste. The company also focuses on environmental conservation and promotes recycling initiatives.

1907water: 1907water bottles its product in 100% recyclable and BPA-free plastic. The brand emphasizes sustainability by encouraging consumers to recycle their bottles. Moreover, the company supports reforestation projects to offset its carbon footprint.

Health and Hydration

When comparing the health benefits and hydration efficacy of Flow and 1907water, it is crucial to evaluate their nutritional value and how they support overall hydration.

Nutritional Value Comparison

Flow and 1907water both offer distinct mineral compositions that influence their health benefits. Flow water is sourced from a natural spring and boasts high levels of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals benefit bone health and muscle function.

1907water is artesian water from New Zealand and is known for its strong alkaline pH level, which some believe can help neutralize body acidity. It contains significant amounts of silica, calcium, and magnesium. Both waters are free from contaminants like lead and chlorine, ensuring a clean drinking experience.

Hydration and Health Benefits

Both Flow and 1907water are highly effective in hydrating the body. Flow water rehydrates the body while delivering beneficial minerals that support daily health needs. Its packaging ensures the water stays free from plastic contaminants.

1907water is often praised for its smooth taste and higher pH, which proponents say may help balance body pH. Additionally, its silica content supports hair, skin, and nail health. Each brand's mineral content ensures they not only quench thirst but also provide valuable nutrients that contribute to overall well-being.

Taste and Purity

Flow and 1907water are both recognized for their unique attributes in taste and purity. Each brand employs distinct processes to achieve their signature flavor profiles and high standards of purity.

Flavor Profiles

Flow water is known for its clean and smooth taste. With a naturally occurring mineral presence, it yields a crisp and refreshing drinking experience without any aftertaste. Its flavor profile is often described as balanced and light, making it a popular choice for those seeking a subtle and pure taste.

1907water, sourced from New Zealand, offers a velvety texture with a hint of sweetness. The slightly sweet and mineral-rich water provides a more pronounced flavor. Some drinkers note a calming, almost luxurious mouthfeel that distinguishes it from other brands. The water’s unique volcanic filtration contributes to its robust profile, marked by a delicate balance of natural minerals.

Purity Standards and Processes

Flow utilizes a state-of-the-art reverse osmosis filtration system to ensure its water remains free from contaminants. This process involves forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, removing impurities and producing highly purified water. Flow emphasizes its commitment to maintaining low levels of total dissolved solids (TDS), ensuring a pure drinking experience.

1907water’s purity is attributed to its natural artesian source in New Zealand. The water is naturally filtered through layers of ancient volcanic rock, enhancing its mineral content while stripping away contaminants. This natural filtration process ensures high purity levels without the need for additional treatment. The brand prides itself on its rigorous quality controls and commitment to preserving the water’s natural properties.

In comparing both brands, it's clear that Flow and 1907water each provide distinct advantages in terms of taste and purity, driven by their unique sources and advanced filtration methods.

Cost and Consumer Considerations

Choosing between Flow and 1907water involves evaluating their cost and the ease with which they can be found and purchased.

Price Points

Flow: Flow water is typically available in packs, with prices varying based on the retailer and the pack size. On average, consumers might expect to pay about $1 to $2 per liter. This price reflects its premium packaging, which is both eco-friendly and visually appealing.

1907water: 1907water is often marketed as an artisan brand, with a typical price range of $1.50 to $3 per liter. The higher cost is attributed to its origin from a sustainable aquifer in New Zealand and the mineral content that adds value to the water.

Given these price points, Flow is generally more budget-friendly for regular consumption, whereas 1907water appeals to consumers willing to pay more for perceived quality and exclusivity.

Availability and Convenience

Flow: Flow water is widely available in major grocery stores, health food stores, and online marketplaces. Its eco-conscious packaging often attracts environmentally-minded consumers, making it a staple in many retail outlets. The convenience of purchase and the availability in both individual and bulk packs add to its appeal.

1907water: 1907water has a more niche market presence. It is available in select high-end grocery stores and specialty shops but may be harder to find in regular supermarkets. Online platforms often stock 1907water, but shipping may add to the overall cost. This makes it a bit less convenient for some consumers compared to more readily available brands.

The slightly limited availability can make 1907water a special purchase rather than an everyday item for many customers.

Comparing Alternatives

When exploring alternatives to bottled water like Flow and 1907water, there are several important options to consider. These include tap water versus bottled water, filtering tap water, and using reusable bottles with filtration systems.

Tap Water vs. Bottled Water

Tap water is a cost-effective and accessible choice. Most tap water in developed areas is treated to meet safety standards. It often contains beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium. On the other hand, bottled water is convenient and frequently marketed as purer or healthier. Brands like Flow and 1907water often emphasize their natural sourcing and mineral content.

However, bottled water can be significantly more expensive than tap water. It also has a larger environmental footprint due to plastic waste, even with recycling efforts.

Key Points:

Tap water is economical and contains beneficial minerals.
Bottled water offers convenience but at a higher cost.
Environmental impact of bottled water is significant.

Filtered Tap Water Options

Filtered tap water systems offer the best of both worlds. Devices like faucet filters, countertop models, and pitcher filters can remove contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and bacteria from tap water. This makes filtered water safer and often tastier.

Brands like Brita and PUR are popular for home use. These systems vary in complexity and cost, but even basic filters can significantly improve water quality. Filtered tap water can be an excellent, sustainable alternative to buying bottled water continually.

Key Points:

Filters can remove undesirable contaminants from tap water.
Popular filtering options include faucet, countertop, and pitcher systems.
Filtered water provides a sustainable and cost-effective solution.

Reusable Bottles and Filtration Systems

Reusable bottles paired with portable filtration systems allow access to clean water on the go. Brands like LifeStraw and Grayl offer bottles with built-in filters that can purify water from almost any source. These solutions are particularly beneficial for outdoor activities and travel.

Using reusable bottles reduces plastic waste and is a more environmentally friendly alternative to regular bottled water purchases. Portable filters can help manage water quality when standard tap water isn't accessible, making them versatile and practical.

Key Points:

Reusable bottles reduce plastic waste.
Portable filtration is ideal for travel and outdoor use.
Brands like LifeStraw and Grayl offer integrated solutions.

Industry Insights

The bottled water market in the United States has seen significant growth due to rising health concerns and increasing demand for clean, sanitary drinking water. Key players and emerging trends are driving this market forward.

Key Players and Market Trends

Major companies like Dasani, Aquafina, Voss, Fiji, Evian, Core Hydration, and Essentia dominate the U.S. bottled water market.

In 2023, the market size was estimated at USD 44.6 billion. With a CAGR of 5.8% expected from 2024 to 2030, continued growth is anticipated. This growth is fueled by rising awareness of health issues linked to tainted tap water and consumers' increasing preference for convenient, bottled solutions.

Voss and Fiji have carved a niche by focusing on premium segments, while Dasani and Aquafina cater to more budget-conscious consumers.

Consumer Preferences

Consumer preferences are shifting towards premium brands like Voss and Fiji, which are perceived as offering higher quality.

Convenient small-sized bottled water continues to be popular, particularly among younger demographics and urban dwellers. Seltzer, sparkling, and mineral waters have seen an 18.2% year-over-year increase in sales, highlighting the demand for variety and specialized hydration solutions.

Bulk purchases of still water are also on the rise, despite higher growth rates in other categories. Consumers prioritize brands that align with health trends and provide assurances of water purity and safety, influencing preferences significantly.

Final Assessment

Flow and 1907water both offer unique qualities. To determine which bottled water is better, several factors are considered.

Source and Filtration:

Flow boasts naturally alkaline spring water with a pH level of 8.1.
1907water consistently ranges between a pH of 7.8 - 8.2, beneficial for mitigating acidity due to stress or poor diet.

Taste:

Flow has a slightly sweet taste with a clean finish.
1907water offers a balanced taste, attributed to its high alkalinity.

Environmental Impact:

Flow uses sustainable packaging and focuses on eco-friendly practices.
1907water also emphasizes environmental responsibility, ensuring minimal impact.

Price and Availability:

Flow is relatively more expensive but accessible online and in many stores.
1907water provides good value for its high quality, though might not be as widely available.

Health Benefits:

Flow supports hydration with added electrolytes.
1907water helps rebalance body pH, reducing stress-related acidity.

Aspect Flow 1907water pH Level 8.1 7.8 - 8.2 Taste Slightly sweet, clean finish Balanced taste Environmental Focus Sustainable packaging Eco-friendly practices Price Higher Moderate Availability High Moderate

When choosing between Flow and 1907water, personal preferences on taste, environmental impact, and health benefits play a crucial role.

Flow vs. 1907water

Unbiased Comparison of Premium Bottled Waters