Seltzer Water vs Sparkling Water: What's the Difference?

When it comes to enjoying a refreshing, fizzy drink, the terms "seltzer water" and "sparkling water" often cause confusion. Are they interchangeable, or do they refer to different beverages?

This blog aims to clear up the mystery surrounding these two popular drinks, delving into the distinctions and common misconceptions as many carbonated beverages are popular these days.

Whether you're a casual drinker or a sparkling water enthusiast, understanding the nuances between carbonated beverages will help you make informed choices.

What is seltzer water?

Seltzer water is water that has been carbonated by adding carbon dioxide gas under pressure. It contains no added minerals, flavors, or sweeteners, making it simply fizzy water.

There are many seltzer water brands available in local stores that offer a variety of flavored seltzers though, such as lemon, lime, orange, and grapefruit.

Is seltzer hydrating?

Absolutely, seltzer water can be hydrating just like plain water. Since it is essentially water that has been carbonated, it still contributes to your daily fluid intake without adding any calories or sugars.

Sparkling water and seltzer water ingredients

In case you need it laid out visually, let's break down the ingredients in both seltzer water and sparkling water:

• Seltzer water: Carbonated filtered water with no additives.
• Sparkling water: Carbonated filtered water also with no additives.

Nutritional value of both:

• Calories: 0
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

As you can see, the ingredients for seltzer water and sparkling water are identical. Both beverages are simply carbonated filtered water.

Much like club soda, seltzer water and sparkling water are great calorie free mixers for cocktails and mocktails!

Check out the differences between soda water vs sparkling water and soda water vs seltzer water to learn more about carbonated beverages.

Related read: Tonic Water vs Sparkling Water: What's the Difference?

Is seltzer water bad for you?

In general, seltzer water, just like sparkling water, is not bad for you and is considered a healthy alternative to sugary sodas and other sweetened beverages like juices.

While pure seltzer water is harmless to dental health, flavored varieties that contain added acids or sugars could potentially contribute to tooth enamel erosion over time.

It's always a good idea to check the ingredient label and opt for plain seltzer water to avoid any unwanted additives. Although, sometimes not present on a label are PFAS that have been found inside many popular seltzer water brands.

To ensure the cleanest and healthiest form of seltzer water and sparkling water would be to make it at home using a sparkling water maker and CO2 canisters.

How seltzer is made

The process of making commercial seltzer water is straightforward and involves a few key steps:

1. Filtered water is collected to ensure the purity and taste of the final product.
2. This water is then chilled to a low temperature, which helps in retaining the carbon dioxide (CO2) when it is introduced.
3. The chilled water is then placed in a carbonation chamber or a commercial carbonation machine.
4. Here, CO2 gas is injected into the water under high pressure, dissolving into the liquid and creating the effervescence that gives seltzer water its characteristic fizz.

At-home carbonation systems, such as those offered by popular brands like SodaStream and Soda Sense, operate on a similar principle.

Users fill a reusable bottle with cold water and attach it to the carbonation unit. By pressing a button, CO2 is released into the water, resulting in instant seltzer.

Origin of seltzer

The term "seltzer" originated from the German town of Selters, which was renowned for its naturally carbonated mineral springs.

Dating back to the 16th century, Selters water was bottled and sold as a health tonic. It was highly sought after for its purported medicinal properties and refreshing taste.

Over time, the word "Selters" became anglicized to "seltzer," and it was adopted to describe any carbonated water, regardless of its source.

Related read: The Origin of Tonic Water

Key takeaways

• Seltzer water and sparkling water are the same; both are carbonated from still filtered water with no additives.
• Ingredients for both seltzer water and sparkling water are identical.
• The nutritional value of both beverages shows zero calories, fats, sodium, carbohydrates, or sugars.
• Health impact: Pure seltzer water is not bad for dental health, but check for added acids or sugars in flavored varieties.
• Seltzer and sparkling water are both great mixers in cocktails similarly to club soda.
• Making it at home with a carbonation system ensures the cleanest and healthiest form of seltzer water.
• Seltzer water is effective for hydration, similar to plain water.
• The name "seltzer" is derived from Selters, a German town known for its natural carbonated springs.