Mineral Water vs Spring Water: What's the Difference?

When choosing bottled water, you've likely noticed terms like "mineral water" and "spring water" on labels. While both are natural water sources, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding these differences can help you make informed choices about the water you drink.

What is Spring Water?

Spring water comes from an underground source that flows naturally to the earth's surface. It must be collected at the spring or through a borehole that taps directly into the underground formation feeding the spring. The key characteristic of spring water is that it flows naturally without mechanical pumping from its source.

At Little Hampton, our spring water is sourced from a protected underground aquifer in Victoria, Australia. The water naturally rises to the surface, bringing with it the pure, crisp taste that only authentic spring water can deliver.

What is Mineral Water?

Mineral water also originates from an underground source, but it's specifically defined by its mineral content. To be classified as mineral water, the water must contain a consistent level of minerals and trace elements at the source. These minerals—such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium—occur naturally as the water filters through layers of rock and soil.

The mineral composition must remain stable and cannot be artificially added or altered. This natural mineral content is what gives mineral water its distinctive taste and potential health benefits.

Key Differences

Mineral Content

The primary difference lies in the mineral concentration. While spring water may contain some minerals, mineral water must have a specific, consistent mineral composition that meets regulatory standards. Spring water's mineral content can vary and is typically lower than mineral water.

Taste Profile

Mineral water often has a more pronounced taste due to its higher mineral content. The specific minerals present can create subtle flavour notes—some mineral waters taste slightly salty, while others have a smooth, almost sweet quality.

Spring water, like Little Hampton, typically has a cleaner, more neutral taste. This makes it incredibly refreshing and versatile—perfect for drinking on its own or pairing with food and wine.

Regulatory Standards

Both mineral water and spring water are regulated to ensure purity and safety, but the standards differ. Mineral water must meet specific requirements regarding its mineral composition, while spring water regulations focus on the source and collection method.

In Australia, both types of water must meet strict Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) guidelines to ensure they're safe and accurately labelled.

Health Considerations

Both mineral water and spring water offer hydration benefits, but mineral water provides the added advantage of naturally occurring minerals that support various bodily functions:

• Calcium supports bone health and muscle function
• Magnesium aids in energy production and nervous system regulation
• Potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure

Spring water, while lower in minerals, offers pure hydration without any additives or processing. Its natural filtration through geological layers removes impurities while maintaining a balanced pH.

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between mineral water and spring water often comes down to personal preference and intended use:

Choose spring water if you prefer:

• A clean, neutral taste
• Versatile water for everyday hydration
• Water that pairs well with food and beverages
• A lighter, more refreshing drinking experience

Choose mineral water if you prefer:

• A more distinctive taste profile
• Additional mineral intake from your water
• Water with specific mineral compositions for health goals

The Little Hampton Difference

At Little Hampton, we're proud to offer premium Australian spring water that showcases the purity of our protected source. Our water undergoes natural filtration through ancient geological formations, emerging with a perfectly balanced composition and crisp, clean taste.

Whether you choose our still or sparkling varieties, you're experiencing authentic spring water at its finest—bottled at the source to preserve its natural quality and delivered in sustainable glass bottles and aluminum cans.

Quality You Can Trust

Regardless of whether you choose mineral water or spring water, the most important factors are source protection, quality control, and sustainable practices. At Little Hampton, we're committed to all three, ensuring that every bottle delivers the pure, refreshing hydration you deserve.

Ready to experience the difference of premium Australian spring water? Explore our range and discover why Little Hampton is the choice for discerning water drinkers.