Water Types: Mineral, Spring, Table & Drinking Water
Updated: Sep 21
Water is one of the most valuable resources for the human body. But not all water is the same! There are significant differences between the types of water, their origin, and above all, their quality standards.
Mineral water, spring water, table water, drinking water – do you know exactly what these terms mean and how the different types of water actually differ?
That said, the specific properties each type of water must meet are precisely defined by law.
Mineral Water
Mineral water is natural, mineral-rich water with a long tradition as a naturally sourced water.
As a rule, mineral water is rich in natural minerals and trace elements that the body can easily absorb.
For an objective classification, what matters is origin, composition, mineralization, and manufacturer information; no general therapeutic effects are implied by this.
Mineral Water
Mineral water (groundwater with special properties) must come from underground water sources and be bottled directly at the source.
The mineral composition can vary considerably from one source area to another.
For an objective classification, what matters is origin, composition, mineralization, and manufacturer information; no general therapeutic effects are implied by this.
Iron or sulfur compounds may be removed. Carbon dioxide may be removed or added using physical methods. Mineral water is regulated by the Mineral and Table Water Ordinance.
Spring Water
Spring water, also known as well water, comes from naturally or artificially developed underground deep-water sources, just like mineral water.
Spring water may not be chemically treated or processed by filtration. It must, however, meet all the requirements for drinking water.
The legal requirements for extracting, bottling, and marketing spring water are set out in the Mineral and Table Water Ordinance. Unlike mineral water, spring water does not require official recognition.
Table Water
Table water is not a natural product and may be industrially blended and bottled from different types of water and ingredients (e.g. minerals).
Table water is generally used as the base for many soft drinks.
It does not require official recognition, but quality and hygiene standards must still be met. It falls under the Mineral and Table Water Ordinance.
Drinking Water
Drinking water is probably the most commonly consumed food product, since it's used for drinking and for preparing food and beverages.
For hygiene reasons, drinking water/tap water may be treated within the legal limits. Responsibility for its quality up to the property connection lies with the water utility; from there to the tap, it's the property owner's responsibility.
The requirements for drinking water/tap water are set out in the Drinking Water Ordinance.
