So what exactly is the difference between seltzer, club soda, and sparkling water? Well, let's first start with their common base: carbonated water. Carbonated water is the common ingredient in each of these beverages. Almost all manufacturers now force carbonate water by dissolving carbon dioxide gas into cold water. However, before J. Schweppe from—you guessed it—Schweppes developed the manufacturing process to artificially carbonate water in , there was only one way to get carbonated water: tapping it from a natural source.
This carbonated water with natural bubbles is called mineral water. Seltzer has roots in Germany. The naturally carbonated mineral water was "named for the town of Selters, Germany. LaCroix's definition of seltzer water is "water with carbonation that may or may not contain sweeteners or added flavors, as well as varying amounts of sodium. This results in different mouthfeels or flavors, which is why some people prefer one type of carbonated water over another. Club soda is carbonated water that has been infused with added minerals.
Water is carbonated by injecting carbon dioxide gas, or CO2. The amounts of minerals added to club soda depend on the brand or manufacturer. These minerals help enhance the flavor of club soda by giving it a slightly salty taste.
Like club soda, seltzer is water that has been carbonated. Given their similarities, seltzer can be used as a substitute for club soda as a cocktail mixer. Seltzer originated in Germany, where naturally occurring carbonated water was bottled and sold. It was very popular, so European immigrants brought it to the United States. Unlike club soda or seltzer, sparkling mineral water is naturally carbonated. Its bubbles come from a spring or well with naturally occurring carbonation.
Spring water contains a variety of minerals, such as sodium, magnesium , and calcium. However, the amounts vary based on the source from which the spring water was bottled.
According to the Food and Drug Administration FDA , mineral water must contain at least parts per million dissolved solids minerals and trace elements from the source from which it was bottled 2. Interestingly, the mineral content of water may change the taste significantly. Some producers further carbonate their products by adding carbon dioxide, making them even more bubbly. However, tonic water also contains quinine, a compound isolated from the bark of cinchona trees. Quinine is what gives tonic water a bitter taste 3.
Tonic water was historically used to prevent malaria in tropical areas in which the disease was prevalent. Back then, tonic water contained significantly higher amounts of quinine 3. These minerals sometimes give the water a natural carbonation; other times, carbon dioxide is added for extra oomph. Cookie banner We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from.
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Because of the quinine, it's unlikely you'll want to drink tonic water by itself. However it pairs well with lime and gin, hence the Gin and Tonic. Club Soda vs. Seltzer: What's the Difference? By Melanie Fincher December 17, Pin FB Share.
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