Is Reverse Osmosis Water Too Pure?

Short Answer Summary: Reverse osmosis water can be extremely low in minerals, which affects taste, mouthfeel, and pH balance. While it is safe to drink, many people prefer remineralized RO water for a more natural and satisfying profile.

What Does “Too Pure” Mean?

When people describe reverse osmosis water as “too pure,” they are usually referring to its extremely low mineral content rather than safety.

Reverse osmosis removes nearly all dissolved solids from water. This includes harmful contaminants as well as naturally occurring minerals. The result is water with very low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), often close to zero.

While this level of purification is effective, it creates water that behaves differently than most natural drinking water.

How Reverse Osmosis Changes Water

Natural water sources contain varying amounts of minerals that influence taste, structure, and balance. Reverse osmosis removes these elements almost completely.

TDS drops to very low levels
Mineral structure is removed
Taste becomes neutral or flat
pH may shift slightly acidic

These changes are not harmful, but they can affect how water feels and tastes when consumed daily.

Why RO Water Often Tastes Flat

Minerals play a key role in how water tastes. Calcium, magnesium, and trace minerals provide structure and mouthfeel.

Without these minerals:

Water may taste bland
Mouthfeel feels thin or empty
Water feels less refreshing

This is one of the most common reasons RO users look for remineralization.

Does Extremely Pure Water Affect pH?

Reverse osmosis water often tests slightly acidic. This happens because mineral-free water has little buffering capacity and can absorb carbon dioxide from the air.

Without minerals to stabilize pH:

pH can drop below neutral
Water feels sharper or harsher
Results may vary depending on environment

Adding minerals back helps stabilize pH closer to neutral or mildly alkaline.

Is Very Pure RO Water Safe to Drink?

Yes. Reverse osmosis water is safe to drink. It meets drinking water standards and is free from many contaminants.

However, safety and preference are different issues. Many people simply prefer water that contains some mineral content for taste and balance.

This is why remineralization is commonly added as the final stage of an RO system.

How Remineralization Restores Balance

Remineralization adds essential minerals back to RO water after purification. This restores characteristics found in natural mineral water.

Improves taste and mouthfeel
Stabilizes pH
Adds back calcium and magnesium
Creates a more natural water profile

A remineralization filter does this automatically with every glass of water.

Why Filters Are the Preferred Long-Term Solution

There are multiple ways to remineralize RO water, but filters provide the most consistent results.

Automatic mineral restoration
No daily measuring
Consistent taste and pH
Low maintenance

Mineral drops may work temporarily, but they rely on manual dosing and can lead to uneven results.

Common Questions

Can RO water leach minerals from the body?

RO water itself does not remove minerals from the body. However, many people prefer remineralized water for taste and balance.

Does remineralized water taste different?

Yes. Most people describe remineralized water as smoother, cleaner, and more refreshing.

Is remineralization necessary?

It is not required for safety, but it is strongly preferred for taste and everyday drinking comfort.

Final Takeaway

Reverse osmosis water is extremely clean, but it can be too pure for many people’s taste preferences. Remineralization restores balance, improves taste, and creates a more natural drinking experience.