Quick answer
Sparkling water (Level 1, 1-2 ingredients) vs soda (Level 4, 7+ ingredients). Sparkling water is the less-processed option for anyone looking to reduce ultra-processed beverage consumption.
Processing levels can vary significantly between brands and specific products within each category. Always check the ingredient list of the specific product you are considering. Use our product search to look up exact processing scores. These comparisons evaluate processing level and ingredient composition only. They do not account for taste, price, convenience, cultural significance, or individual dietary needs.
How do they compare by the numbers?
Sample products from each
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Frequently asked questions
Is sparkling water really less processed than soda?
Yes, and by one of the widest margins in our database. Plain sparkling water is water and carbon dioxide, while a typical soda formulation includes seven or more ingredients such as HFCS, caramel color, phosphoric acid, and flavorings.
Do flavored sparkling waters count as ultra-processed?
Most unsweetened flavored sparkling waters score in the lower levels in our analysis because they add only natural flavor essences. Versions with sweeteners or acids move closer to soda territory.