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Is Sparkling Water the Same as Soda Water?

by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated February 15, 2025
Australians love their fizzy drinks, but when it comes to choosing betweensparkling water and soda water,things can get a little confusing. Are they the same? Do they taste different? Is one better for your health than the other? If you’ve ever wondered about the difference betweensparkling water vs soda water, you’re not alone.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these two fizzyfavorites, how they’re made, and which one might be the best choice for your lifestyle. So, if you’re looking for thebest carbonated wateroption in Australia, keep reading!

What Is Sparkling Water?

Sparkling wateris naturally carbonated water that comes from underground springs. The bubbles in sparkling water are created by naturally occurringcarbon dioxide(CO₂), giving it that signature fizz. Some popular brands even add extra CO₂ to enhance the carbonation.
a woman is drinking water

Common Types of Sparkling Water

  • Natural Sparkling Mineral Water : Comes straight from mineral springs, packed with natural minerals like calcium and magnesium.
  • Club Soda (or Soda Water) : Artificially carbonated water, often with added minerals.
  • Flavoured Sparkling Water : Infused with naturalflavorslike lemon, lime, or berries.

What Is Soda Water?

Soda water, often referred to asclub soda, is artificially carbonated water that has minerals added to it. Unlike sparkling water, which gets its bubbles naturally, soda water is made by injectingcarbon dioxide gasinto still water. This gives it a similar fizz to sparkling water but with a slightly different taste due to the added minerals.

Common Minerals in Soda Water

  • Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
  • Potassium bicarbonate
  • Sodium citrate
The minerals in soda water can make it taste slightly saltier than sparkling water, but they also help enhance the flavour when mixed with drinks, which is why soda water is a favourite in cocktails.
lemon sparkling water

Sparkling Water vs Soda Water: Key Differences

If you’re wondering which one to pick, here are some key differences betweensparkling water and soda water:
sparkling water vs soda water

Which One Should You Choose?

Sparkling waterand soda water are both carbonated beverages but differ slightly. Sparkling water, also known as seltzer, is plain water carbonated with carbon dioxide, offering a clean, neutral taste. Soda water, or club soda, is similarly carbonated but includes added minerals like sodium bicarbonate or potassium sulfate, imparting a subtle, slightly salty flavor.
The choice betweensparkling water and soda watercomes down topersonal preferenceandintended use.
  • If you love apure, refreshing taste, go forsparkling water.
  • If you need amixer for cocktails or drinks,soda wateris the better choice.
  • If you prefer something with added flavour, tryflavoured sparkling water.
For optimal home water filtration, reverse osmosis (RO) systems are highly effective. They remove a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved minerals, lead, arsenic, and certain bacteria and viruses, by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane. This process ensures high-quality drinking water.

Can You Use Sparkling Water Instead of Soda Water?

Yes, in most cases,sparkling water and soda water can be used interchangeably.However, because soda water has added minerals, it might slightly alter the taste of certain drinks. If you’re mixing cocktails, stick withsoda waterfor the best balance of flavour.

Is Carbonated Water Bad for You?

Aussies are becoming more health-conscious, and many people wonder ifcarbonated water is bad for your teeth or bones. The good news is thatsparkling water and soda water are both safe to drinkin moderation.
If you’re watching yoursodium intake, check the label onsoda watersince some brands contain added sodium.
soda water

Final Thoughts

So, issparkling water the same as soda water?Not quite.While both are fizzy and refreshing, sparkling water isnaturally carbonated, while soda water gets its bubbles artificially. Soda water also contains added minerals, making it slightly saltier in taste.
For everyday hydration,sparkling wateris a refreshing choice. If you’re mixing drinks or cocktails,soda wateris the better option. Either way, both are great alternatives to sugary soft drinks!

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Contaminants Detected in  Fruitland Water Special Service District
30
Contaminants
EXCEED EWG HEALTH GUIDELINES

30  Total Contaminants in Your Water

Water Provider

Fruitland Water Special Service District

Population Affected

120,000

Water Source

Ground water
Exceeds Guidelines

Others Detected

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