Water Without Sodium Bicarbonate
Bicarbonate contributes alkalinity and a distinct mineral taste. Consumers seeking lighter-tasting waters, or following low-sodium diets, often choose lower bicarbonate options.
What is bicarbonate?
Bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) is the main alkaline buffer in natural mineral waters. It pairs with sodium, calcium, or magnesium as the counter-ion. Waters like Vichy Catalan and Borjomi can exceed 2000 mg/L; soft waters carry under 50 mg/L.
Taste effects
High-bicarbonate waters taste rounded, almost soapy at the very top end. Low-bicarbonate waters read as clean and neutral, which is ideal for cocktails, coffee, and infants.
Low-bicarbonate water rankings
| Brand | Approx. Bicarbonate | Approx. Sodium |
|---|---|---|
| Aquafina | ~0 mg/L | ~0 mg/L |
| Smartwater | < 5 mg/L | ~2 mg/L |
| VOSS | ~30 mg/L | ~2 mg/L |
| Icelandic Glacial | ~50 mg/L | ~7 mg/L |
See also sodium- and calcium-free bottled water.
Frequently asked questions
Which bottled waters have the least sodium?
Aquafina, Dasani, LIFEWTR, Smartwater, and VOSS all sit at or below 5 mg/L of sodium per liter — well within any low-sodium dietary guideline.
Is bicarbonate in water bad?
No — bicarbonate is the body’s main blood pH buffer. It is actually beneficial for digestion. Low-bicarbonate options are a taste preference, not a health requirement.
Does sparkling water contain sodium bicarbonate?
Naturally sparkling mineral waters often do — Vichy Catalan and Borjomi are famous examples. Force-carbonated waters like Perrier or club soda may or may not be re-mineralized.
