Tonic water, club soda, seltzer, and sparkling water are all carbonated water but they differ in their mineral content and taste.
Many people seeking a healthier lifestyle have become more mindful about their dietary choices, including what they drink.
Carbonated water has become a great substitute for soda and other sweetened soft drinks, which explains its steady growth in popularity. Plus, it appeals to many people because it’s both hydrating and fizzy.
However, since there are many types of carbonated water, you may wonder what sets each kind apart and which is best for your health.
Simply put, club soda, seltzer, and sparkling and tonic waters are types of carbonated water.
However, these bubbly beverages vary in how they’re processed and in the compounds they contain. This results in different mouthfeels or flavors, which is why some people prefer one type over another. They each have basic definitions that make them similar in many ways, but each involves different production processes, minerals, or additives that make them unique.
| Definition | Common minerals | Taste | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Club soda | injected with carbon dioxide gas (CO2), then infused with minerals | potassium sulfate, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, disodium phosphate | may have a slightly salty taste, mineral amounts vary |
| Seltzer | carbonated like club soda | generally no added minerals, though this may vary by brand | a plainer taste, may be a substitute for club soda in cocktail mixers |
| Sparkling water | naturally carbonated, bubbles come from a spring or well with naturally occurring carbonation | variety of minerals, such as calcium, sodium, magnesium; some have carbon dioxide added for more bubbles | FDA requires at least 250 parts per million (ppm) of dissolved solids from bottling source, which can vary taste and make each manucturer’s product unique |
| Tonic water | carbonated water with added minerals, but uniquely contains quinine, which is isolated from cinchona tree bark | contains quinine, which has historically been used to prevent malaria in tropical climates; small quinine amounts are masked by sugar, sweeteners, or high-fructose corn syrup | a unique bitter taste due to the quinine; often used as a cocktail mixer, including gin or vodka. |
Club soda, seltzer, sparkling, and tonic water all contain very few nutrients.
This table compares the nutrients in 12 ounces (355 mL) of all four beverages:
| Calories | 0 | 0 | 0 | 124 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Fat | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Carbs | 0 | 0 | 0 | 32 grams |
| Sugar | 0 | 0 | 0 | 32 grams |
| Sodium | 3% of the daily value (DV) | 0% of the DV | 2% of the DV | 2% of the DV |
| Calcium | 1% of the DV | 0% of the DV | 9% of the DV | 0% of the DV |
| Zinc | 3% of the DV | 0% of the DV | 0% of the DV | 3% of the DV |
| Copper | 2% of the DV | 0% of the DV | 0% of the DV | 2% of the DV |
| Magnesium | 1% of the DV | 0% of the DV | 9% of the DV | 0% of the DV |
As you can see, tonic water is the only beverage that contains calories, all of which come from added sugar.
Although club soda, sparkling mineral water, and tonic water contain some nutrients, the amounts are very low. By and large, their minerals are added for taste and are unlikely to provide health benefits at these small amounts.
Club soda, seltzer, and sparkling mineral water have similar nutritional profiles. All three beverages are a great choice to quench your thirst and keep you hydrated.
If drinking plain water alone doesn’t fully meet your daily needs, any of these drinks would make a suitable alternative.
Additionally, you may find that these beverages soothe an upset stomach due to their carbonation.
However, tonic water contains a high amount of sugar and calories that
Club soda, seltzer, and sparkling and tonic waters are different types of carbonated water. They each have different minerals and manufacturing processes, and can be unique in their style and taste.
Three of them — club soda, seltzer, and sparkling water — are the best choices that may benefit your health. Which one you choose to drink is simply a matter of preference. Tonic water is carbonated but contains added quinine and sugar, which means it provides calories and a carb count if you’re not enjoying a diet or no-sugar version.
Just one thing
My favorite way to enjoy a fizzy water or bubbly beverage is to drink club soda mixed with a splash of lemon juice. It’s genuinely refreshing and doubles as a mocktail. You can also find sugar-free options of tonic water, to avoid possible sugar additives and not worry about inadvertent blood sugar spikes from the ingredients. – Healthline Engagement Editor Mike Hoskins