Ever wondered about the nuances in the water you sip?
For many of us, water is a basic thirst-quencher, and we often grab a bottle without a second thought unless we're particularly brand-conscious or price-sensitive. However, delving into the world of water reveals a variety of types, with mineral water taking centre stage. Derived from underground springs, wells, or artesian wells, mineral water is a concoction of natural resources, sourced from deep aquifers or surface water that undergoes natural filtration.
The classification of mineral water by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) entails its designation as a beverage containing a minimum of 250 parts per million (ppm) of total dissolved solids, contributing to both its taste and perceived health benefits.
In Malaysia, manufacturers must secure a license and adhere to the stipulations outlined in the Ministry of Health's Guidelines for Licensing Sources of Packaged Drinking Water and Natural Mineral Water. Noteworthy mineral water sources in Malaysia include Taiping (Perak), Ulu Tiram (Johor), and Mersing (Johor). A diverse array of Malaysian-manufactured brands offering mineral water variants, including Bleu, Cactus, Desa, and Spritzer, can commonly be found on store shelves.
Netizens Shocked To See Water From Langkawi Containing More Silica Than Other Brands
Tahun lepas Spritzer ada buat campaign untuk promotes benefits of silica to health sebab sumber air depa ada 60mg/l.
— Dibs (@adibhazlami) January 21, 2024
Rupanya ada lagi punca air tempatan yang punyai silica yang jauh lebih tinggi.
At 94mg/l, air dari Gunung Raya, Langkawi kemungkinan mempunyai silica yang paling… pic.twitter.com/UCRLMZZGaO
In a 2012 study evaluating water brands in Malaysia, only Spritzer emerged with detectable silica content, distinguishing itself from competitors like Bleu, Cactus, Ice Mountain, and Select. However, the landscape has evolved since then, with the entry of new premium water brands boasting significant silica content, including LWI Blue and Langkawi Pure.
Recently, X User @adibhazlami brought attention to a drink originating from Gunung Raya Langkawi, hinting at potentially one of the world's highest silica content waters. Situated around 130 meters deep beneath the mountain amidst rocks that have stood for over 550 million years, the water source adds a geological dimension to the quest for high-quality hydration.
It's noteworthy that Gunung Raya in Langkawi holds the prestigious title of a UNESCO Global Geopark. Two standout brands draw their water from this remarkable mountain: Langkawi Pure, boasting 84.9 mg/l of silica, and LWI Blue, which takes it a notch higher with a silica content of 94 mg/l. These brands not only offer hydration but also tap into the geological richness of Gunung Raya, making each sip a unique experience.
Which Mineral Water Brand Actually Contains The Most Silica Content?
If you thought the beverage from Gunung Raya boasted high silica content, there are actually drinks that surpass it. Not to worry, our local brand still stands among the elite beverages globally recognized for their exceptionally high silica content.
Taking the crown for the world's highest silica content is Socosani, a brand sourcing water from the Andes Mountains in Peru. The elevated silica levels are attributed to the geological formations through which the water flows. The diverse geology of the Andes Mountains plays a crucial role in producing water of unparalleled quality, solidifying Socosani's reputation as a purveyor of top-tier silica-rich beverages.
Here's a list of mineral water brands with the highest silica content:
- Socosani , Andes Mountains, Peru – 108 mg/l
- Nomu Silica, Mount Kirishima, Japan – 97 mg/l
- Kiwi Spring, North Island, New Zealand – 88-95 mg/l
- LWI Blue, Gunung Raya, Malaysia – 94 mg/l
- Fiji Water, Viti Levu, Fiji – 93 mg/l
- ROI, Rogaška Slatina, Slovenia – 86 mg/l
- Langkawi Pure, Gunung Raya, Malaysia – 84.9 mg/l
- Shizuku, Mount Kirishima and Mount Kuju, Japan – 84.1 mg/l
- Aquene Springs Source Water, Olivas Crystal Springs, USA – 77mg/l
- Antipodes, North Island, New Zealand – 73 mg/l
- Spritzer, Taiping, Malaysia – 60 mg/l
Benefits Of Silica For The Body
Embracing a healthier lifestyle by choosing water rich in silica can bring forth a myriad of benefits. Silica, a compound of silicon and oxygen, holds considerable importance for human health. Abundantly found in nature, silica plays a pivotal role in shaping and sustaining connective tissues like collagen and elastin. This support extends to the skin, hair, nails, and blood vessels, enhancing strength and flexibility. Beyond this, silica contributes to optimal bone health by assisting in the formation of hydroxyapatite, a crucial mineral complex for bone density. Additionally, it promotes joint health through its active involvement in cartilage formation.
Beyond structural support, silica is often associated with enhancing external features, such as hair and nails, by contributing to the strength and structure of keratin. Additionally, it plays a role in skin health by supporting collagen production, crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. While silica supplements are available, it's important to note that a well-balanced diet with silica-rich foods can naturally provide these benefits. As with any dietary considerations, individuals are advised to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance on nutritional needs and supplement use.
It's truly fascinating to discover that our beverage boasts one of the highest silica contents globally. Armed with this insight, we can better appreciate why certain drinks command premium prices – their value aligns with the profound health benefits they offer.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media & various cross-references for context.
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