9 PFAS-Free Sparkling Water Options For Non-Toxic Hydration

This post may contain affiliate links. By browsing this website, you agree to our disclaimer, privacy policy, and terms of use.

Are you looking for nontoxic sparkling water options that are PFAS-free?

When it comes to the sparkling water you sip daily, you want to ensure it’s not only refreshing but also safe. Nobody wants to be sipping on forever chemicals, am I right?

To help you navigate the world of nontoxic sparkling water, we’ve curated a list of our top picks that prioritize both great taste and are free from PFAS (harmful “forever chemicals”). These sparkling water selections will let you hydrate with confidence and peace of mind.

You’ve trusted us to provide guidance on the best water filters, organic mattresses, and air purifiers – and now we’ve got you covered with the top PFAS-free sparkling water options. Let’s jump in.

Best Non-Toxic Sparkling Water, in a nutshell…

Mountain Valley Sparkling Water (Most Reliable For Quality Water)
Sound (Most Unique Flavor Offerings)
Aura Bora (Best Tasting)
Proud Source (Most Eco-Friendly Option)
Nixie (Best Organic Option)

You’ve just finished a vigorous workout and are ready to quench your thirst. You reach for a can of your favorite sparkling water, anticipating that first refreshing sip. But what if, unbeknownst to you, that seemingly innocent beverage is exposing you to a class of chemicals linked to serious health issues?

If you’re not aware of PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), you’re definitely not alone. These persistent chemicals have gone largely unnoticed for years, but mounting research has brought their potential health risks to light. And there are a lot of potential health risks to be concerned about.

But here’s the good news: You have the power to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers lurking in most sparkling water brands out there. By opting for PFAS-free alternatives, you can continue to enjoy your favorite seltzers and sparkling beverages without compromising your health.

We’re going deep into the world of PFAS, exploring how these chemicals find their way into your sparkling water and why their presence is so concerning.

We’ll discuss the potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure and underscore the importance of choosing high-quality, nontoxic sparkling water options to keep your body safe and healthy.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have raised significant health and environmental concerns.

They are man-made chemicals used in various industrial applications and consumer products like non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, food packaging, and fire extinguishers since the 1940s.

They are known as “forever chemicals” due to their chemical stability which prevents them from breaking down easily in the environment or human body. For this reason, PFAS have been found in drinking water, food, and even human blood samples across the globe.

Studies have linked PFAS exposure to several serious health risks including, but not limited to liver damage, kidney damage, and immune system impairment.

Understanding the potential dangers of PFAS exposure is necessary for making informed decisions about product choices, including sparkling water, to minimize your exposure to these harmful chemicals.

What sparkling water brands contain the highest levels of PFAs?

According to Consumer Reports, the following sparkling water brands contain the highest levels of PFAS and we would recommend avoiding them when possible.

Topo Chico PFAS (9.76 ppt)
Polar Natural Seltzer Water PFAS (6.41 ppt)
Bubly Sparkling Water PFAS (2.24 ppt)
Poland Spring Sparkling Water PFAS (1.66 ppt)
Canada Dry Sparkling Seltzer Water PFAS (1.24 ppt)
LaCroix Natural Sparkling Water PFAS (1.16 ppt)
Perrier Natural Mineral Water PFAS (1.1 ppt)

What Makes a Sparkling Water “PFAS-Free”?

PFAS-free sparkling water can be defined as a carbonated beverage that has been tested and confirmed to contain no detectable levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

This means that the water itself, as well as any flavorings or additives, and the packaging materials used, do not contain these harmful “forever chemicals”.

What Are the Potential Health Risks of PFAS Consumption?

You might be wondering, “What’s the big deal with these PFAS chemicals, anyway?”

Well, brace yourself because the potential health risks associated with PFAS consumption are no joke.

Increased Cholesterol Levels: Studies have shown that PFAS exposure can lead to higher levels of both total cholesterol and LDL (the “bad” cholesterol), putting you at a greater risk for cardiovascular diseases. So, while your sparkling water might be refreshing, it could be putting your heart health on the line.

Liver Damage: Research suggests that PFAS can impair liver function and even lead to liver damage, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. That’s right, your innocent-looking sparkling water could be messing with your body’s vital filtration system.

Kidney Cancer: There’s compelling evidence linking PFAS exposure to an increased risk of kidney cancer. While you’re sipping on that fizzy drink, those persistent chemicals could be setting the stage for some serious health issues down the line.

Thyroid Hormone Disruption: PFAS can also disrupt your thyroid hormones, potentially leading to hypothyroidism and other thyroid disorders. Your sparkling water habit could be throwing your body’s delicate hormone balance out of whack.

Other Health Concerns: Studies have also linked these chemicals to decreased vaccine efficacy, reproductive issues, developmental effects in children, immune system impairment, and even an increased risk of certain cancers like testicular and prostate cancer.

Long-Term Risks and Persistence in the Body

It’s crucial to remember that the health risks associated with PFAS are not just short-term concerns. These “forever chemicals” are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in your body over time.

This means that even low-level exposure to your daily sparkling water intake could contribute to long-term health issues.

A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that PFAS can remain in the human body for years, with half-lives ranging from 2 to 8 years, depending on the specific compound.

Given these health risks it’s all the more important to minimize your exposure wherever possible.

What Level of PFAS is Safe?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finally put their foot down and declared that no level of PFAS in drinking water is considered safe.

They have stated, “For PFOA and PFOS, EPA is setting a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal, a non-enforceable health-based goal, at zero. This reflects the latest science showing that there is no level of exposure to these contaminants without risk of health impacts, including certain cancers.” Well, at least now we know.

As of April 2024, the EPA has finalized a nationwide restriction on PFAS in drinking water. They’re limiting PFOA and PFOS to a mere four parts per trillion (ppt) per chemical. While it’s not quite zero, it’s a huge improvement from the EPA’s previous voluntary guideline of less than 70 ppt.

However, we’ll have to be patient and wait for these effects to trickle down to our favorite sparkling water brands on grocery store shelves. So in the meantime, it’s a good rule of thumb to look for sparkling water brands with a PFAS PPT of 1.0 or less.

Now we know how to identify safer sparkling water, let’s explore some specific options that meet these criteria.

Top 9 PFAS-Free & Low- PFAS Non-Toxic Sparkling Water Options

1. Mountain Valley

Shop Mountain Valley

No PFAS Detected

Mountain Valley Sparkling Water is a brand that takes purity seriously.

With a commitment to rigorous testing and monitoring, Mountain Valley proudly reports non-detectable levels of PFAS in their water.

As America’s oldest continuously operating bottled water company, they’ve been delivering from their protected natural spring in the Ouachita Mountains of Hot Springs, Arkansas, for over 150 years.

Each bottle of Mountain Valley Sparkling Water is born in the heart of the mountains, where the signature green glass bottles are filled with the purest, most refreshing water nature has to offer.

The springs have long been known for their healing properties, drawing wellness seekers from around the world for thousands of years.

Today, Mountain Valley continues to provide the same naturally sourced, crisp, and ultra-refreshing sparkling water that’s been enjoyed for generations.

Hydrate with confidence, knowing that every sip is free from harmful PFAS chemicals.

Price

$29.00 for 12 x 1 L bottles

notable features

Naturally sourced spring water

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

2. Sound

Shop Sound

No PFAS Detected

Apart from testing completely PFAS-free, Sound sparkling water stands out for their unique organic tea-infused flavors.

Their lineup of delicious flavors features fun options like lemon with thyme and white tea and rose with lime and hibiscus tea. A welcome break from the lineup of usual seltzer flavors.

Founded by engineers and wellness enthusiasts, Sound was born from a desire to create a better-tasting, more exciting unsweetened beverage.

By carefully blending organic tea, botanicals, and fruit extracts, they’ve crafted a first-of-its-kind sparkling water.

Sound is one of our top choices because it is certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO, and Gluten-Free, and it is Whole 30 approved – in addition to being PFAS-free of course.

Price

$30.00 for 20 cans

notable features

Certified USDA Organic, Certified Non-GMO, Certifed Gluten Free, Whole 30 Approved

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

3. Sparkling Ice

Shop Sparkling Ice

No PFAS Detected

Indulge in the sweet, juicy taste of Sparkling Ice Black Cherry, a zero-sugar sparkling water that’s bursting with real fruit flavor.

While Sparkling Ice offers a variety of flavors, their Black Raspberry option, in particular, has tested for non-detectable levels of PFAS, making it their safest option.

This grown-up take on cherry is both tart and complex, delivering all the flavors without the calories.

Each bottle contains 0g sugar, only 5 calories, and 0g carbs, and is made with better-for-you ingredients, including colors from natural sources.

Sparkling Ice Black Cherry also packs a nutritional punch, with each bottle containing 15% of the daily value of several vitamins, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Biotin, and Pantothenic Acid.

Price

$11.40 for 12 x 17 oz bottles

notable features

Zero- Sugar, Uses fruit and vegetable juice as natural colorants

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

4. Spindrift

Shop Spindrift

0.19 ppt PFAS

Spindrift sparkling water is all about flavor and safety. Their Raspberry Lime flavor boasts one of the lowest levels of PFAS detected at just 0.19 ppt (well below the “safe” level of 1 ppt).

Spindrift offers a range of refreshing, fruit-forward choices without the added sugar.

Each can of Spindrift sparkling water contains real fruit juice, and the amount is clearly displayed on the label.

We love all of their classic citrus options, but especially love their mocktail-inspired Nojito flavor, starring mint and lime. Perfect for when you want to join the party but want to skip the alcohol.

Not only does Spindrift prioritize the quality of its ingredients, but they give back to the environment too.

Through its partnership with 1% for the Planet, Spindrift donates 1% of every online purchase to support environmental causes.

Price

$26.00 for 24 cans

notable features

Certified Non-GMO, Certifed Gluten Free, Made with real fruit juice

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

5. San Pellegrino

Shop San Pellegrino

0.31 ppt PFAS

San Pellegrino is a timeless classic. Around long before the sparkling water craze, this Italian sparkling mineral water has been a symbol of refinement for over a century.

With a PFAS level of 0.31 ppt, San Pellegrino continues to be a premium choice when it comes to sparkling water.

Known for its fine bubbles and subtle mineral content, San Pellegrino is sourced from natural springs in the Italian Alps, providing the natural hydration your body needs.

San Pellegrino’s commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that each bottle meets the highest standards of purity and flavor.

In addition to their classic sparkling mineral water, San Pellegrino’s Essenza line features three delicious Mediterranean-inspired flavors, including dark morello cherry and pomegranate.

Great for adding a sophisticated twist to any mocktail or cocktail.

Price

$7.99 for 6 x 8.45 fl oz bottles

notable features

Natural spring water, Naturally high mineral content, Renown for quality water for over 200 years.

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

Filtered With Reverse Osmosis

While we don’t have the exact PFAS levels in the following brands, they use nanofiltration and reverse osmosis filtration, which are the best methods for reducing and removing PFAS from drinking water according to the EPA.

6. Aura Bora

Shop Aura Bora

Crafted with real herbs, fruits, and flowers, Aura Bora’s flavors are as inspired as they are delicious.

From the intriguing mango chili to the delicate tangerine blossom, each variety offers a unique and refreshing taste experience.

Unlike many other sparkling water brands, Aura Bora steers clear of citric acid. Say goodbye to digestive discomfort and headaches.

In addition to its commitment to quality ingredients and advanced reverse osmosis filtration, Aura Bora is also a champion for sustainability.

Each can is made from infinitely recyclable aluminum, reducing their environmental impact.

Price

$33.00 for 12 x 12 fl oz cans

notable features

Filtered using reverse osmosis, Contains no citric acid (better for sensitive digestive systems), Infinitely recyclable aluminum cans

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

7. Nixie

Shop Nixie

Nixie Sparkling Water is on a mission to revolutionize the beverage aisle by eliminating sugar, single-use plastic bottles, and toxic forever chemicals.

This USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified sparkling water uses reverse osmosis filtration, which helps remove PFAS chemicals and other impurities, ensuring a cleaner, healthier drinking experience for you.

Each can of Nixie is bursting with flavor, thanks to the use of all-organic ingredients and the absence of artificial solvents or preservatives.

From the refreshing peach black tea to the vibrant strawberry hibiscus, Nixie’s unique flavor combinations offer a delightful alternative to sugary sodas.

In addition to its commitment to quality ingredients and advanced filtration, Nixie also uses BPA-free aluminum cans, helping to keep single-use plastic bottles out of the environment.

Price

$34.00 for 24 x 12 fl oz cans

notable features

Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Reverse Osmosis Filtration, Zero Sweeteners, BPA-free can liner

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

8. Proud Source Water

Shop Proud Source Water

Proud Source Water is naturally alkaline sparkling spring water, responsibly sourced from the pristine Rocky Mountains of Idaho and the serene Apalachicola Forest of Florida.

With a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Proud Source pledges to never take more than 5% of each spring’s daily output, preserving these precious natural resources for generations to come.

Each sip of Proud Source Sparkling Water delivers a crisp, clean taste, thanks to its natural minerals and electrolytes.

The brand’s dedication to purity means you won’t find any additives in their products, just lightly carbonated, pure refreshment.

Proud Source takes its environmental responsibility seriously, packaging its water in 100% infinitely recyclable aluminum bottles with BPA-free liners, ensuring both the safety of the water and the sustainability of the packaging.

Proud Source makes their annual water quality reports available on their website, so you have all of the information you need to make an informed choice on the water you’re drinking.

Price

$29.99 for 12 x 16 fl oz cans

notable features

Naturally sourced, Naturally alkaline, Packaged in 100%, infinitely recyclable aluminum with BPA-free lining

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

9. Waterloo

Shop Waterloo

Waterloo Sparkling Water is on a mission to break through the sea of sameness in the sparkling water market, offering a refreshing change from the usual with its unique flavor combinations and lively carbonation.

This naturally flavored, zero-calorie, zero-sugar, and zero-sodium sparkling water is crafted with purified water and custom-crafted authentic flavors.

As a Non-GMO Project Verified and Whole30 Approved brand, Waterloo is committed to providing a clean, crisp drinking experience without any artificial sweeteners.

Waterloo’s BPA-free cans contain ultra-filtered water sourced regionally, ensuring that each can is never sold more than 500 miles away from its original source, reducing the environmental impact of transportation.

Price

$5.37 for 12 x 12 fl oz cans

notable features

Zero calories, sugar, and artificial sweeteners, Non-GMO Project Verified, BPA-free packaging

location/shipping

United States, ships within the US.

How Does PFAS End Up in Sparkling Water?

The thing to know about PFAS is that contamination levels can vary widely between different sparkling water brands.

This is due to several factors: the source and treatment of the water used, the choice of packaging materials and production processes, the brand’s commitment to PFAS reduction, varying regulations and voluntary measures, and the extent of testing and transparency.

While some brands may source water from contaminated areas, others invest in advanced treatment technologies to remove PFAS. Similarly, some brands prioritize PFAS-free packaging and production processes while others may not.

Additionally, regulatory standards and voluntary measures, along with the frequency and transparency of PFAS testing, can all contribute to the variation in PFAS levels among different sparkling water brands.

Source Water Contamination

PFAS can enter the environment through industrial discharges, landfill leachate, and firefighting foams. If the water used to produce your sparkling water comes from a contaminated source, chances are those persistent chemicals will end up in your drink.

Packaging Materials

The packaging materials used for sparkling water can also be a culprit. Some plastics and coatings used in bottles and cans may contain PFAS, which can leach into the water over time. So, even if the source water is pristine, the packaging could be introducing these unwanted contaminants.

Carbonation Process

While the exact mechanisms are still being researched, it’s thought that the increased pressure and acidity during carbonation might facilitate the release of PFAS from materials in contact with the water.

Processing Equipment

And don’t forget about the processing equipment. Pipes, filters, and gaskets used in the production process may also contain PFAS, which can contaminate the sparkling water as it moves through the system.

Now that we understand how PFAS can enter our sparkling water, let’s explore why their presence is concerning for our health.

Is it possible to make your own PFAS-free sparkling water at home?

Yes, it’s definitely possible to make your own PFAS-free sparkling water at home!

Home carbonation systems like SodaStream or Aarke, allow you to carbonate tap water using CO2 cartridges. This method gives you control over the ingredients and avoids potential contamination from packaging materials.

To ensure your sparkling water is PFAS-free, use filtered tap water that has been treated with a filter certified to remove PFAS.

What’s the difference between PFAS-free and nontoxic sparkling water?

While both terms suggest a healthier sparkling water choice, there’s a key difference:

PFAS-free specifically means the water has been tested and confirmed to have no detectable levels of PFAS, a group of harmful “forever chemicals” linked to various health issues.

Nontoxic sparkling water is a broader term that suggests the water is free from any ingredients or contaminants that could harm human health, which may include PFAS and other substances like heavy metals or artificial additives.

However, nontoxic is not a regulated term and can vary in meaning depending on the brand.

Can I still be exposed to harmful chemicals even if my sparkling water is PFAS-free?

Yes, unfortunately, PFAS-free doesn’t always mean your sparkling water is completely free of other potentially harmful contaminants. Some other things to watch out for include:

Microplastics, heavy metals, and artificial additives
Contamination from the water source or during the manufacturing process
Chemicals leaching from packaging materials

To minimize your risk, choose brands that test for a wide range of contaminants, not just PFAS, and are transparent about their safety protocols.

Are all carbonated waters considered healthy sparkling water options?

Nope, not all carbonated waters are created equal when it comes to health! Some factors that can make sparkling water less healthy include:

Added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and other additives
High acidity levels that can contribute to tooth enamel erosion
Lack of beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium
Presence of harmful contaminants like PFAS

To choose a healthy sparkling water, opt for unsweetened, unflavored varieties that are free from contaminants and potentially enriched with natural minerals.

How can I minimize my exposure to PFAS beyond choosing PFAS-free sparkling water?

While selecting PFAS-free sparkling water is a big step in the right direction, there are plenty of other ways you can reduce your exposure to these pesky chemicals:

Filter your tap water with a PFAS-removing filter
Ditch the single-use plastics and non-stick cookware
Check your personal care products and avoid those with PFAS
Be cautious with greasy takeout packaging and microwave popcorn bags
Regularly dust and vacuum your home to remove PFAS-laden dust
Choose fresh, unpackaged foods over processed, packaged options
Stay informed about the latest research and regulations on PFAS

This has been your complete guide to nontoxic sparkling water options | PFAS free!

No one wants to give up that refreshing fizz of sparkling water. And now you don’t have to! By opting for PFAS-free alternatives, you can continue to savor the effervescent delight of sparkling water while still watching out for your health.

Whether you choose a timeless classic like Mountain Valley, with its commitment to rigorous testing and non-detectable PFAS levels, or a fun and flavorful option like Sound, with its unique organic tea infusions, we hope you find sparkling water here that lets you sip with confidence.

And remember, choosing PFAS-free sparkling water is just one step in the journey towards a healthier, nontoxic lifestyle.

By staying informed about the latest research, supporting eco-friendly and transparent brands, and making mindful choices across all aspects of your life, you can create a safer, cleaner environment for yourself and your loved ones.