Mineral Content Affects Drinking Water Taste and Benefits the Body, Here’s IDI’s Explanation

KOMPAS.com – Water is an essential part of daily life as the body requires fluids to support various physiological functions. However, when choosing mineral water, people generally pay more attention to packaging and price rather than understanding the mineral content inside.

In fact, natural mineral content can influence the taste profile of mineral water. Different mineral compositions can produce varying flavor sensations, ranging from bland to having distinct flavors.

The relationship between mineral content and taste profile is one of the topics explored in research led by Dr. Dien Kurtanty, MKM, involving the Indonesian Doctors Association (IDI) as scientific advisors.

Dr. Telogo Wismo Agung Durmanto, Secretary-General of the Central Governing Board of the Indonesian Doctors Association (PB IDI), stated that public awareness regarding the taste characteristics of mineral water needs to be expanded.

“Many still believe that good mineral water is tasteless. However, healthy mineral water possesses a flavor derived from the interaction of natural minerals,” he noted.

He explained that the flavor profile of mineral water can naturally develop through the interaction of various minerals it contains. One flavor that may emerge is a light sweetness.

“This flavor develops naturally, not artificially. For example, the light sweetness perceived in some mineral waters is a natural character formed through the balance of minerals, not due to added sweeteners or other substances,” he continued.

In general, mineral composition can affect the taste profile of water. Calcium and magnesium, for instance, can impart a stronger flavor character. Meanwhile, bicarbonates and sodium can also contribute to the flavor experienced when consuming mineral water.

In addition to examining the relationship between mineral content and flavor character, the study also looked at consumer preferences for the taste of mineral water.

Dr. Dien Kurtanty, MKM, explained that the research findings indicate that 96 percent of respondents prefer mineral water with a light sweetness sensation or natural thin sweet.

These findings reveal a preference for certain flavor characteristics within the sample studied. However, flavor preferences need to be understood in context with the research methods used.

Understand Mineral Content When Choosing Drinking Water

Understanding mineral content can be a crucial consideration for people when selecting mineral water.

By knowing the composition listed on the packaging, consumers can gain a better understanding of the characteristics of the water they consume daily.

Dr. Telogo encouraged the public to consider mineral content in addition to packaging and price.

He emphasized that education on the relationship between minerals and flavor profiles is also essential in helping people understand their experiences when consuming mineral water.

“This way, the preferred flavor profile can contribute to fulfilling fluid needs and maintaining hydration,” he remarked.