Last Updated: December 11, 2025 – 4:45 PM EST

Seltzer and sparkling water are two of the most consumed fizzy beverages in the United States. They appear identical on the surface both are bubbly, refreshing, calorie-free, and widely available in cans and bottles. But despite looking similar, seltzer and sparkling water are very different products in terms of origin, mineral content, taste, carbonation style, and use cases.

What Is Seltzer?

Seltzer is purified water that has been artificially carbonated by injecting carbon dioxide gas (CO₂) under pressure. It does not naturally contain minerals, sodium, or flavoring unless added afterward.

Because seltzer begins as filtered water, it has a clean, sharp, neutral profile that makes it extremely popular for hydration, cocktails, and flavored beverages.

What’s Inside Seltzer?

• No minerals
• No sodium
• No natural carbonation
• Pure water + CO₂
• Optional natural flavors in some brands

Due to its neutral taste, seltzer has become the foundation for most flavored sparkling beverages in the U.S., including LaCroix and Bubly.

How Seltzer Is Made

1. Water Purification – Reverse osmosis removes minerals, chlorine, and impurities.
2. CO₂ Injection – Creates strong, sharp bubbles.
3. Flavor Addition (Optional) – Natural fruit essences or extracts.
4. Bottling – Sealed containers preserve carbonation.

Manufacturers prefer seltzer because it allows full control over carbonation levels and flavor consistency.

What Is Sparkling Water?

Sparkling water also called sparkling mineral water comes from natural underground springs that supply both minerals and carbonation. The minerals vary depending on the spring source and contribute directly to its taste, mouthfeel, and smoothness.

Some sparkling waters lose natural carbonation during processing. To maintain quality, brands often reintroduce CO₂, creating a balanced but natural taste.

Common Minerals Found in Sparkling Water

• Calcium – Supports bones and teeth
• Magnesium – Helps muscle and nerve function
• Potassium – Essential electrolyte
• Sodium (small amounts) – Adds mild saltiness and balance

These minerals create the signature “smooth, round, silky” taste associated with sparkling water brands like San Pellegrino and Topo Chico.

Seltzer vs Sparkling Water: Key Differences

Taste Comparison: Which One Tastes Better?

Taste preference varies widely. Some people love the sharpness of seltzer, while others prefer the smooth, rounded flavor of sparkling water.

How Seltzer Tastes

• Clean and crisp
• Sharper carbonation
• No mineral aftertaste
• Excellent for mixing flavors

How Sparkling Water Tastes

• Smoother bubbles
• Slight natural saltiness
• Richer mouthfeel
• More “natural” or “earthy” tasting

Health Benefits & Risks

Both options are far healthier than soda, but sparkling water offers small added nutritional benefits due to its mineral content.

Nutritional Comparison

While these minerals are not enough to replace supplements, they do add slight health value.

Possible Downsides

• Some people experience bloating from carbonation.
• Flavored seltzers sometimes include citric acid slightly more erosive.
• Sparkling water with high sodium may not suit low-sodium diets.

Does Carbonated Water Hydrate Better?

Multiple studies confirm that carbonated water hydrates just as well as still water.

However, individuals often drink more sparkling water simply because they enjoy the flavor and texture leading to better hydration habits.

Effects on Teeth & Acidity

Carbonated water is mildly acidic due to carbonic acid. However, both seltzer and sparkling water are far less acidic than soda.

To protect teeth:

• Drink with meals to neutralize acid。
• Avoid brushing teeth for 20–30 minutes after drinking。
• Choose plain versions without added citric acid。

Cost Comparison: Which Is Cheaper?

On average in the U.S.:

• Seltzer: $0.50–$1.00 per bottle
• Sparkling Water: $1.00–$2.50 per bottle

Sparkling water costs more due to spring sourcing, mineral content, and international shipping (for imported brands).

Environmental Impact

Both beverages use energy for bottling and transportation. However:

• Seltzer typically has a lower carbon footprint.
• Sparkling mineral water sourced internationally increases emissions.
• Aluminum cans are easier to recycle than plastic bottles.

Best Uses for Seltzer vs Sparkling Water

Seltzer Is Best For:

• Cocktails and mocktails
• Flavored beverages
• Daily hydration
• Baking (adds fluffiness)
• People who prefer sharp carbonation

Sparkling Water Is Best For:

• Standalone drinking
• Pairing with meals
• Premium beverages
• Those who enjoy mineral flavors

Popular Brands in the USA

Seltzer Brands

• LaCroix
• Bubly
• AHA
• Perrier Seltzer (U.S.)
• Spindrift

Sparkling Water Brands

• San Pellegrino
• Topo Chico
• Perrier
• Gerolsteiner
• Crystal Geyser

FAQs

Is seltzer the same as sparkling water?

No. Seltzer is artificially carbonated purified water; sparkling water is naturally carbonated mineral water.

Is sparkling water healthier?

It contains trace minerals, offering small benefits, but both are healthy choices.

Does carbonation weaken bones?

No scientific evidence supports this. That myth applies to soda, not carbonated water.

Is carbonated water bad for digestion?

Some people may experience bloating, but many find it helps digestion.

Can kids drink carbonated water?

Yes, in moderation. Choose unflavored versions to avoid acidity.

References

• USGS – Water Minerals Guide
• FDA – Bottled Water Standards
• Healthline – Sparkling Water Analysis
• NCBI – Carbonated Water Hydration Study