Aquafina

Aquafina 2016

Aquafina is a brand of purified water products produced by PepsiCo, consisting of both unflavored and flavored water. The brand was first introduced in the United States in 1994 and has since expanded its market globally. Aquafina's water is purified through a rigorous purification process that includes reverse osmosis, ultraviolet, and ozone sterilization. This process removes substances from the water, resulting in a clean and pure product that meets and often exceeds local and international water quality standards.

History

Aquafina was launched by PepsiCo in 1994, in response to the increasing demand for bottled water. Since its inception, the brand has grown to become one of the largest bottled water brands in the world. Over the years, Aquafina has expanded its product line to include flavored water, sparkling water, and water in various sizes and packaging options to cater to a broad range of consumer needs and preferences.

Product Range

The Aquafina brand includes a variety of products, such as:

• Aquafina Purified Drinking Water: The flagship product, available in multiple sizes.
• Aquafina FlavorSplash: A line of flavored water without added sugars or calories, available in various fruit flavors.
• Aquafina Sparkling: A line of carbonated water, offering a refreshing alternative to sugary soft drinks.

Purification Process

Aquafina's purification process is designed to ensure the highest quality of water. The process includes several stages:

1. Filtration: Removes large particles and impurities from the water. 2. Reverse Osmosis: A process that forces water through a semi-permeable membrane, removing dissolved solids and impurities. 3. Ultraviolet Exposure: Uses UV light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. 4. Ozone Sterilization: Water is treated with ozone gas to eliminate any remaining bacteria and viruses.

This comprehensive purification process distinguishes Aquafina from other bottled waters, which may use different methods or fewer steps in their purification processes.

Environmental Impact

The bottled water industry, including brands like Aquafina, faces criticism for its environmental impact, particularly concerning plastic waste and the carbon footprint associated with producing and transporting bottled water. In response, PepsiCo has initiated efforts to reduce its environmental impact by investing in more sustainable packaging solutions, such as using recycled materials for its bottles and improving the efficiency of its production and distribution networks.

Controversies

Aquafina has been involved in controversies, primarily related to the source of its water. In 2007, PepsiCo disclosed that Aquafina is purified from municipal tap water, a common practice in the bottled water industry but one that was not widely known by consumers at the time. This disclosure led to discussions about the value proposition of bottled water and the need for clearer labeling and transparency in the industry.

See Also

• Bottled water
• Purified water
• PepsiCo
• Environmental impact of bottled water