Key findings
- 1Plain sparkling water is equally simple whether naturally or artificially carbonated
- 2In our analysis, sparkling waters average a Processing Score of 3.5, which is Level 2
- 3It is a direct replacement for soda with far less processing
- 4Tonic water is not sparkling water; it contains sugar and is more processed
Why is Sparkling Water Level 2 on average?
Carbonation involves dissolving carbon dioxide into water under pressure, which is a simple physical process. Natural sparkling water (like Perrier) is carbonated at the source. Manufactured sparkling water adds CO2 industrially but introduces no chemicals. Flavored varieties like LaCroix use "natural flavor" essences (distilled from fruit). Spindrift uses real squeezed juice; slightly more ingredients but still very simple. In our analysis, sparkling waters average a Processing Score of 3.5, which is Level 2.
How 4,280 sparkling water products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Sparkling Water brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a sparkling water label
- 1
Carbonated water should list: carbonated water (and possibly natural flavors)
- 2
Spindrift adds real fruit juice and is still very simple
- 3
Watch for "sparkling water beverages" with sweeteners or artificial flavors
- 4
Tonic water is different; it contains sugar/HFCS and quinine
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Frequently asked questions
Is LaCroix ultra-processed?
LaCroix lists carbonated water and natural flavor, two ingredients. The "natural flavor" is essence distilled from fruit, not an industrial additive. Each product page shows its own score.
Is sparkling water as healthy as still water?
Yes. The carbonation does not add calories, sugar, or chemicals. Sparkling water hydrates identically to still water. The CO2 is released as gas in the stomach.