Is Crystal Geyser Good Water? How Safe Is It?

Crystal Geyser

While you are looking at various choices for hydration on the go, you are sure to stop by Crystal Geyser. The US brand is owned by a Japanese company called Otsuka Pharmaceutical.

Simple, but not easy is the company’s campaign for its Alpine spring water. Yes, natural spring water is considered the best for hydration. But is Crystal Geyser water good for you? Let’s explore.

Where does Crystal Geyser water come from?

According to the manufacturers, Crystal Geyser bottled water is sourced from one of these seven springs

  • Olancha, California – This is where the company opened its first facility. The spring originates near Olancha Peak of the southern Sierra Mountains.
  • Mount Shasta, California – This is the second-highest peak in the Cascade Range – it is 14,180 feet tall. The spring source is from the 1.1-million-acre Shasta National Forest.
  • Moultonborough, New Haven – This factory, surrounded by 5,200 acres of forest, is positioned in Ossipee Mountains.
  • Benton, Tennessee – The spring is part of the Hiwassee watershed in the Cherokee National Forest.
  • Johnstown, New York – The source is encircled by a 2,500-acre protected national forest and has mountains, rivers, and lakes in its vicinity.
  • Norman, Arkansas – The spring is part of the greater Ouachita National Forest and is enveloped by 6,000 acres of natural watershed.
  • Salem, South Carolina – The source is situated amidst lakes and waterfalls of the Blue Ridge Mountains near the Sumter National Forest.

pH and TDS of Crystal Geyser water

Natural spring water is known to have a perfect pH value and an exceptional TDS score. So, what do pH and TDS of Crystal Geyser water look like? 

Source of Crystal Geyser waterpHTDS (ppm)
Benton7.6150
Johnstown8.1230
Moultonborough6.418
Mount Shasta7.2-7.3100-110
Norman7.4110
Olancha6.9-7.794-140
Salem6.859

The company’s water analysis report indicates a pH of 5.4 for its bottled spring water products. Testing done by private agencies shows a TDS of about 113 ppm for the product.

Does Crystal Geyser water contain chemicals?

Crystal Geyser water undergoes a treatment process that removes radioactive contaminants, nitrogen, and other chemicals from it. Does this mean the product is free of all chemicals? Let’s do a check.

Arsenic 

Water analysis reports from Crystal Geyser do not suggest the presence of arsenic in their bottled spring water. However, a sample from the company’s arsenic pond at the South Carolina facility was tested by the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board in March 2013, demonstrating the presence of arsenic in limits eight times higher than was permissible.

The manufacturers have allegedly used arsenic to clean the filters used to purify water and dumped contaminated water into this man-made pond. Crystal Geyser was made to pay a penalty of $5 million for this violation.

Arsenic is a highly toxic chemical. Drinking water containing this heavy metal is hazardous to health – it can cause cancer, neurological problems, skin issues, and high blood pressure. The harmful chemical impedes growth and brain function in children while causing poisoning in pets.

Sodium

Crystal Geyser water contains 10 milligrams of sodium per 500 milliliters. This just about complies with the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recommendation of fewer than 20 milligrams of sodium per liter of drinking water.

The sodium level in the product is rather high for frequent consumption. Too much sodium in drinking water can lead to overhydration and water intoxication. It can result in frequent urination, headaches, swelling, high blood pressure, and a risk of heart disease.

Minerals

Minerals are important for healthy bones, muscles, teeth, and skin. Spring water is usually rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium sulfate.

According to the manufacturers, their bottled water contains naturally occurring minerals that provide an outstanding taste.

Here is a list of these minerals in Crystal Geyser, and their composition in one liter of bottled water.

Minerals in Crystal GeyserComposition (per 1 liter)
Calcium27 milligrams
Potassium2 milligrams
Sulfate 36 milligrams
Magnesium6 milligrams
Chloride6 milligrams
  • The recommended level of calcium in drinking water is 30 milligrams per liter, which Crystal Geyser misses narrowly. Calcium in drinking water is a pH stabilizer and taste enhancer. The US National Research Council has stated that you can obtain your daily calcium requirement by drinking water alone.
  • Talking of magnesium, you need about 420 milligrams of it every day – and 12 percent of it is expected to be derived from water. Based on this requirement, magnesium levels in Crystal Geyser water seem to be a bit low. According to ScienceDirect, having moderate to high levels of magnesium in drinking water and other beverages can help avoid 4.5 million heart diseases and cardiovascular deaths every year globally.
  • Public drinking water standards in the USA mandate chloride levels in drinking water to be well below 250 milligrams per liter. A lower level of chloride does not have any health implications, although it may alter the taste of water. However, high concentrations of it can result in kidney issues, dehydration, and metabolic problems besides corroding your pipes and cookware.
  • In the case of sulfate, the EPA has set a higher limit of 250 milligrams per liter. You do not require to ingest a high amount of sulfate from water alone. You can get it from other food sources as your body’s metabolism itself produces it. High consumption of the mineral can cause diarrhea, dehydration, symptoms of asthma, and decreased lung function.
  • The composition of potassium in drinking water is usually small. A higher intake of potassium can cause irregular heartbeat, palpitations, tiredness, and vomiting.

As a final thought – except for magnesium and calcium, the composition of other minerals in Crystal Geyser is fair. However, it is not clear if the product contains other essential minerals like iron, copper, and bicarbonates usually found in drinking water.

Chlorine

Crystal Geyser water does not contain chlorine. According to the manufacturers, municipal water is chlorinated for filtration and sanitation. However, the product undergoes distillation and filtration through reverse osmosis that does not use chlorine.

Fluoride

Crystal Geyser claims to regularly test its seven water sources to ensure that the level of fluoride is between zero and 0.7 ppm. They further clarify that fluoride is not artificially added to their water.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound that reconstructs tooth enamel and maintains oral hygiene. However, ingesting it in higher amounts will cause tooth decay, high blood pressure, acne, seizures, and neurological problems.

Plastic

Crystal Geyser has its own recycled plastic plant in California where it receives recycled plastic and processes it to make rPET pellets. These pellets are sent to the company’s bottling plants to manufacture bottles for Crystal Geyser water. 

The company assures that its recycled PET or rPET bottles are safe. Quite possibly, because studies have shown that rPET bottles do not contain bisphenol A (BPA) or chemical phthalates. PET has the nod of the FDA and other worldwide regulatory agencies as being safe for use in the food and beverage industry.

There is some research showing that when exposed to sun and heat, plastic bottles release toxic chemicals that leach into drinking water. However, Crystal Geyser refutes this claim..

Meanwhile, researchers at Goethe University have found that PET water bottles release compounds that inhibit estrogen and other reproductive hormones in the body. Other research shows that although PET does not contain BPA or phthalates, it can cause reproduction issues, stunted growth, poor energy levels, and other health risks.

It is not safe to regularly drink water from plastic bottles. Glass and metal bottles are emerging as eco-friendly and healthy alternatives to plastic bottles amidst growing concerns that they cause cancer, fertility issues, and brain damage.

Salt

Bottled water companies are known to add salt to purified water to provide a fresh taste. However, Crystal Geyser clarifies that it does not add any salts synthetically. The salts and electrolytes in its product are naturally occurring.

PFA

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAs are a group of chemicals consisting of about 5,000 compounds. The US government has woken up to mull over setting standards for PFAs in drinking water following the detection of the chemical in nearly 40 of 100 bottled water products that were tested.

Tests conducted by the Consumer Reports Agency of the USA have found low levels of PFAs in Crystal Geyser water.

However, a laboratory report submitted by the company to the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation has a declaration that its bottled water does not contain PFAs.

PFAs are harmful chemicals. They can result in cancer, liver damage, poor fertility, thyroid issues, obesity, and high cholesterol. They can also lead to learning difficulties in children.

Here is a quick guide on the presence of different chemicals and minerals in Crystal Geyser water.

ChemicalDoes Crystal Geyser water have it?
ArsenicYes
SodiumYes
MineralsYes
ChlorineNo
FluorideYes
PlasticYes
SaltYes
PFAsYes

Is Crystal Geyser water alkaline or acidic?

The EPA recommends a pH of 6.5-8.5 as safe for drinking water. However, the pH of Crystal Geyser water is 5.4. This is also much below the neutral pH of water at seven. The pH score for alkaline water is eight or nine. Therefore, Crystal Geyser water is on the acidic side.

The acidic nature of water is indicative of the presence of heavy metals and toxins. Consumption of acidic water causes vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach problems, weak bones, teeth corrosion, and kidney diseases.

On the other hand, drinking alkaline water improves health and immunity, reduces acid reflux, enhances cardiovascular health, increases energy levels, and improves hydration.

Does Crystal Geyser water contain BPA?

Crystal Geyser claims that its rPET bottles do not leach BPA into water. The claim is supported by private agency tests and reports that PET and rPET plastic bottles do not contain BPA.

BPA is a harmful chemical. It can cause a rise in blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It can also affect the brain and prostate glands in babies and children.

Is Crystal Geyser water safe to drink?

Crystal Geyser water may be good for occasional consumption – when you are traveling and do not have access to pure potable water. Is it good for your baby and pets? Let’s find out.

For babies

Crystal Geyser is free of BPA and phthalates. It is distilled and purified – so, free of contaminants. However, it is known to contain arsenic, PFAs, and plastic toxins. They can cause brain damage, poor growth and development, obesity, heart problems, behavioral issues, and cancer in babies.

The nutritional value of Crystal Geyser water is not high either. Your baby needs rich amounts of calcium and magnesium for the development of bones and teeth. The sources of these nutrients for your baby are food and water – however, Crystal Geyser water is low on calcium and magnesium.

Crystal Geyser also contains higher levels of sodium, which is again not safe for babies. A sodium-rich diet can increase the risk of kidney damage, heart diseases, and high blood pressure.

Further, the pH of Crystal Geyser water is 5.4, which is way too acidic for babies. The pH recommended for drinking water for babies is 8.5-9. Regular consumption of acidic water can cause their new teeth to corrode. Babies may also experience acid reflux and vomiting owing to the consumption of acidic water.

Baby formula

Crystal Geyser water may not be rich in nutrients, but it is free of bacteria and contaminants. It is also low on fluoride. Therefore, you can use it for your baby formula.

Nevertheless, do not use it frequently. The product contains traces of arsenic, PFAs, and plastics. It is surely not a safe option to use regularly for formula milk. Boiled tap water that is free of lead is a safe option for baby formula.

Fish

Crystal Geyser water contains traces of harmful plastic, chemicals, and arsenic that are harmful to fish. They will affect the reproduction, growth, and immunity of the fish.

Additionally, using bottled water is not a cost-effective option to maintain your fish tank. Use tap water instead – if you are worried about the chlorine, let the water sit for a day and allow the chlorine to evaporate before filling the fish tank.

How is Crystal Geyser water rated?

Crystal Geyser water is rated one of the lowest by the Environmental Working Group. The watchdog tested about 173 bottled water products for their source, purification and testing, and disclosure of test results to consumers.

Crystal Geyser is not open about its manufacturing processes, testing parameters and results, and treatment procedures. The product nevertheless has fair reviews and ratings by consumers.

Does Crystal Geyser water expire?

According to the packaging, Crystal Geyser water expires two years after manufacture. You can find the date printed with the words ‘sell by’ on the packaging.

How long does Crystal Geyser water last?

Although the packaging indicates that Crystal Geyser expires two years after its production, the company clarifies that you can safely use it for many years – provided it is stored in a cool and dry place that is free of odor and chemicals.

Where to purchase Crystal Geyser water?

Crystal Geyser may be purchased both online and offline in the United States. If you are not able to find it at your location, the company suggests you contact its customer service department through email or telephone. Do remember to provide details of your location so that the company can reach out to you.

Is Crystal Geyser water bad for you?

Crystal Geyser water is not a great choice in the bottled water market. Here is why –

  • Crystal Geyser water does not score high on nutrition and pH.
  • It contains PFAs that have adverse health effects.
  • It has high levels of sodium that cause high blood pressure and risk of kidney damage.
  • It has a low content of calcium and magnesium – the chief nutrients in drinking water.
  • It contains some amount of arsenic, which is a toxic heavy metal.
  • The product comes in rPET bottles – which do not contain BPA or phthalates but are known to release chemicals and cause health risks.
  • Tests done by the US Consumer Reports Agency confirm the existence of heavy metals in low levels.
  • The company is not transparent about its treatment and manufacturing processes.

Reference:

  1. https://www.crystalgeyserplease.com/

Check out our guides on other popular bottled water brand

Anand Srinivasan
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