What is the Best Instant Decaf Coffee?
Do you crave the rich taste of coffee without the caffeine? Instant decaf coffee offers a quick and convenient way to enjoy your favorite brew without the jitters. With so many options available, finding the best one can be a challenge.
The ideal instant decaf coffee should deliver a smooth, flavorful experience without bitterness or artificial aftertastes.
From organic blends to bold, full-bodied roasts, the market offers a variety of choices to suit every preference. In this guide, we’ll explore the top instant decaf coffees to help you find the perfect cup that satisfies your coffee cravings.
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What is the best instant decaf coffee?
Do you love the taste of coffee but want to cut down on caffeine? Instant decaf coffee offers a convenient and flavorful solution without the jitters. Whether you’re looking for a smooth, rich blend or a bold, full-bodied cup, there are plenty of great options on the market.
The best instant decaf coffee should have a well-balanced taste, minimal bitterness, and a satisfying aroma.
From popular brands to specialty roasts, finding the right one can elevate your coffee experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the top choices, their flavors, and what makes them stand out.
10 Best instant Decaf Coffee
If you’re looking for a great cup of decaf coffee without sacrificing flavor, these top instant decaf coffee brands offer excellent taste, aroma, and quality.
1. Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf Coffee
Mount Hagen is a top choice for those who want high-quality, organic decaf coffee. It’s made using the Swiss Water Process, ensuring no chemical residues while preserving the coffee’s natural flavors. The freeze-dried method helps maintain its rich taste and aroma.
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This coffee is known for its smooth, well-balanced flavor with mild acidity and a slight nutty undertone. It dissolves easily in hot or cold water, making it perfect for quick preparation. Many coffee lovers appreciate that it lacks the bitterness found in some decaf options.
Being fair-trade certified and organic, Mount Hagen also appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. It’s ideal for those who want a caffeine-free cup without compromising on taste, sustainability, or quality. Whether enjoyed black or with milk, it provides a satisfying coffee experience with every sip.
2. Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf Italian Roast
Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf Italian Roast is a dark roast coffee with bold and robust flavors. If you love a strong coffee taste without caffeine, this is a great option.
This coffee is made with high-quality Arabica beans and offers deep, smoky notes with a hint of caramelized sugar. Its smooth finish makes it enjoyable for black coffee drinkers, but it also pairs well with milk or cream. The micro-ground coffee particles enhance the texture, making it closer to a freshly brewed cup.
Starbucks uses an advanced decaffeination process that removes caffeine while preserving the full-bodied taste. Unlike some instant coffees that taste watered-down, Starbucks VIA maintains a rich and intense flavor, perfect for those who want a bold coffee experience anytime, anywhere.
3. Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf House Blend
Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf House Blend is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It is well-known for its smooth, mild flavor and ease of preparation.
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This instant decaf coffee is made using a flash freeze-drying process, which helps retain the natural flavors of the beans. The result is a balanced cup with light to medium roast notes and a hint of nuttiness. It’s not too strong or too weak, making it ideal for casual coffee drinkers.
One of its biggest advantages is convenience—just add hot water, and your coffee is ready in seconds. The granules dissolve quickly, ensuring a smooth texture. If you’re looking for an affordable, everyday instant decaf coffee, Nescafé Taster’s Choice is a solid pick.
4. Café Altura Organic Decaf Instant Coffee
Café Altura is another organic option for health-conscious coffee drinkers. It uses the Swiss Water Process to remove caffeine naturally, preserving the coffee’s original taste.
This medium roast instant decaf coffee has a rich, nutty flavor with a smooth finish. It’s made from 100% Arabica beans, which contribute to its pleasant aroma and balanced acidity. The freeze-dried granules dissolve easily, providing a hassle-free coffee experience.
Because it is USDA Organic and free from chemicals, this coffee is a great choice for those who want a clean and natural coffee option. It works well for both hot and iced coffee, making it versatile for different preferences.
5. Folgers Classic Decaf Instant Coffee
Folgers is a household name known for affordability and reliability. Their Classic Decaf Instant Coffee offers a traditional, comforting coffee taste without caffeine.
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This medium roast coffee has a smooth and balanced flavor with slight caramel undertones. It’s made using a spray-drying method, which results in fine coffee granules that dissolve easily in hot water. The taste is mellow but satisfying, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a mild coffee experience.
Folgers Classic Decaf is a go-to option for people who want a no-frills instant coffee that delivers consistent results. It’s great for travel, work, or a quick cup at home.
6. Waka Coffee Decaf Instant Coffee
Waka Coffee Decaf Instant Coffee is a premium instant coffee made from 100% Arabica beans. It’s crafted using the freeze-drying method, ensuring a fresh taste and full-bodied aroma.
This coffee has a smooth, well-balanced flavor with hints of chocolate and citrus. It’s less bitter than many decaf instant coffees, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a refined taste.
The company focuses on sustainability, using eco-friendly packaging and donating a portion of its profits to clean water initiatives. If you’re looking for an ethical, high-quality instant decaf coffee, Waka Coffee is worth trying.
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7. Douwe Egberts Pure Decaf Instant Coffee
Douwe Egberts is a Dutch brand known for its rich, aromatic coffee. Their Pure Decaf Instant Coffee is a medium roast that offers smoothness with slight caramel and nutty notes.
This coffee is crafted using high-quality Arabica and Robusta beans, giving it a balanced flavor with a slightly stronger kick. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a flavorful yet gentle cup.
The granules dissolve instantly in hot water, making it convenient for busy mornings or quick coffee breaks. If you want a European-style decaf coffee, Douwe Egberts is a fantastic option.
8. Kava Acid Neutralized Decaf Instant Coffee
For those who are sensitive to acidity, Kava Decaf Instant Coffee is a unique choice. It’s acid-neutralized, making it gentler on the stomach while maintaining a rich coffee taste.
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This medium roast coffee has mild chocolate and nutty flavors, with a smooth finish and no bitter aftertaste. The low acidity makes it ideal for people with acid reflux or digestive issues.
Despite its mild profile, it still delivers a satisfying coffee experience. If you need a low-acid instant decaf coffee, Kava is a great pick.
9. Trader Joe’s Instant Decaf Coffee
Trader Joe’s Instant Decaf Coffee is a popular grocery store brand that offers great value for money. It’s made from 100% Arabica beans and features a smooth, slightly sweet taste.
This coffee dissolves quickly and has a medium-bodied flavor that appeals to many coffee lovers. It’s a cost-effective option for those who want a decent cup of instant decaf coffee without breaking the bank.
Many customers appreciate its consistent quality and convenience, making it a reliable choice for everyday drinking.
10. Maxwell House Original Decaf Instant Coffee
Maxwell House is another classic brand offering a budget-friendly decaf instant coffee. The Original Decaf has a smooth, balanced flavor with a light roast profile.
It’s made using a spray-drying process, which results in fine granules that dissolve easily in hot water. The taste is mild with a hint of nuttiness, making it ideal for casual coffee drinkers.
Maxwell House is a great choice if you want a simple, affordable instant decaf coffee with a classic taste.
Which instant decaf coffee is best?
The best instant decaf coffee depends on your taste preferences, budget, and priorities (organic, chemical-free, bold or mild flavor).
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Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf is a top choice for its smooth taste, organic certification, and chemical-free Swiss Water Process. If you prefer a bold, rich flavor, Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf Italian Roast offers a full-bodied, smoky taste similar to brewed coffee.
Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf House Blend is an affordable and widely available option with a mild and well-balanced profile. Café Altura Organic Decaf Instant Coffee is another great choice for those who prioritize organic, chemical-free processing.
The best option depends on whether you prefer light, medium, or dark roasts and how much you value factors like sustainability and fair trade.
What is the best decaf coffee Consumer Reports?
Consumer Reports evaluates decaf coffee based on flavor, aroma, caffeine content, and quality. While their latest rankings can vary, brands like Peet’s Coffee Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend, Dunkin’ Decaf Medium Roast, and Starbucks Decaf House Blend often receive high ratings for their bold flavors and smooth textures. For instant decaf coffee, Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf and Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf Italian Roast frequently rank among the best due to their rich taste and lack of chemical processing.
Consumer Reports also considers how the caffeine is removed—coffees that use the Swiss Water Process or carbon dioxide (CO2) method tend to be favored over those using methylene chloride. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date rankings, checking Consumer Reports’ latest reviews is the best approach.
Is instant decaffeinated coffee good for you?
Yes, instant decaf coffee can be good for you, especially if you choose high-quality brands that use natural decaffeination methods. Decaf coffee contains antioxidants, polyphenols, and essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium, which offer health benefits similar to regular coffee but without the caffeine. It may help reduce the risk of heart disease, improve brain function, and support liver health.
However, some decaf coffee brands use chemical solvents like methylene chloride, which some people prefer to avoid. Additionally, some instant coffees may contain additives or excessive processing, reducing their health benefits. Choosing an organic, chemical-free option like Mount Hagen or Café Altura ensures you get the healthiest version of decaf instant coffee. As with any food or drink, moderation is key—too much coffee, even decaf, can still lead to acidity or digestive discomfort.
Which instant decaf coffee does not use chemicals?
Several instant decaf coffee brands do not use chemical solvents like methylene chloride or ethyl acetate for caffeine removal. Instead, they use the Swiss Water Process or carbon dioxide (CO2) method, which are chemical-free. Some of the best options include:
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Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf – Uses the CO2 decaffeination method, ensuring no chemicals are involved.
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Café Altura Organic Decaf Instant Coffee – Uses the Swiss Water Process, preserving flavor without chemicals.
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Jo Coffee No Fun Jo Organic Decaf – A premium organic decaf that’s free from chemicals and additives.
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Trader Joe’s Organic Decaf Instant Coffee – Another great option that avoids chemical decaffeination.
Choosing these brands ensures you get a pure, chemical-free decaf coffee with a better taste and health benefits.
What decaf coffees do not contain methylene chloride?
Methylene chloride is a chemical solvent used in some decaffeination processes, but many brands now avoid it due to health concerns. The following decaf coffee brands do not use methylene chloride:
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Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf (CO2 Process)
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Café Altura Organic Decaf (Swiss Water Process)
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Peet’s Coffee Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend (Water Process)
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Jo Coffee No Fun Jo Organic Decaf (Swiss Water Process)
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Whole Foods 365 Organic Decaf (Swiss Water Process)
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Trader Joe’s Decaf Coffee (Swiss Water Process)
These brands use chemical-free methods like Swiss Water or CO2 to remove caffeine while preserving the flavor and quality of the coffee. If avoiding methylene chloride is important to you, always check the label or company website for their decaffeination process.
Does NESCAFÉ use chemicals for decaf coffee?
Yes, some NESCAFÉ decaf coffees use chemical solvents, such as methylene chloride or ethyl acetate, for decaffeination. However, NESCAFÉ has stated that these solvents do not remain in the final product after processing.
That said, NESCAFÉ does offer chemical-free alternatives, including products that use the CO2 method or Swiss Water Process. To ensure you’re choosing a NESCAFÉ decaf without chemical processing, look for:
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NESCAFÉ Gold Decaf – Uses the CO2 decaffeination method, free from methylene chloride.
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NESCAFÉ Taster’s Choice Decaf House Blend – Some versions are CO2-processed, but check packaging details.
If avoiding chemicals is a priority, you may want to opt for organic brands like Mount Hagen or Café Altura, which guarantee chemical-free decaffeination.
Related faq’s
Is There a Chemical-Free Decaf Coffee?
Yes, chemical-free decaf coffee exists. Brands that use the Swiss Water Process or CO2 decaffeination method remove caffeine without using chemicals like methylene chloride or ethyl acetate. Some of the best chemical-free options include Mount Hagen Organic Decaf Instant Coffee, Café Altura Organic Decaf, and Peet’s Coffee Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend. These coffees retain more natural flavors while ensuring no chemical residues remain. If you’re looking for a healthier option, check the label for “Swiss Water Process” or “CO2 Process” to avoid chemically processed decaf.
Does All Decaf Coffee Have Chemicals?
No, not all decaf coffee contains chemicals. Some brands use methylene chloride or ethyl acetate to remove caffeine, but others use natural methods like the Swiss Water Process or CO2 method, which are chemical-free. Organic and specialty brands often highlight their chemical-free process on the packaging. If you want to avoid chemicals in your decaf coffee, look for brands that specifically mention Swiss Water or CO2 decaffeination or opt for certified organic coffee.
Does Folgers Use Chemicals to Decaffeinate Coffee?
Yes, Folgers Decaf Coffee uses methylene chloride as part of its decaffeination process. While the FDA allows this method and claims it’s safe in small amounts, some consumers prefer to avoid it. If you’re looking for a chemical-free decaf alternative, consider brands that use the Swiss Water Process or CO2 decaffeination, such as Mount Hagen, Café Altura, or Peet’s Coffee Decaf.
Does Dunkin’ Decaf Use Chemicals?
Yes, Dunkin’ Decaf Coffee uses methylene chloride in its decaffeination process. While the FDA deems it safe, some consumers prefer to avoid chemical solvents in their coffee. Dunkin’ has not publicly stated any use of Swiss Water or CO2 processing, meaning its decaf options likely contain trace amounts of processing chemicals. If you want a healthier, chemical-free decaf alternative, consider Peet’s Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend, Mount Hagen, or Café Altura Organic Decaf.
What Is the Healthiest Process for Decaf Coffee?
The Swiss Water Process is the healthiest decaffeination method because it uses only water, time, and filtration to remove caffeine. This process preserves the coffee’s natural flavors while avoiding harmful chemicals. Another healthy alternative is the CO2 Process, which uses carbon dioxide to extract caffeine without chemicals like methylene chloride or ethyl acetate. If health is a priority, choose brands that use the Swiss Water or CO2 decaf process, such as Mount Hagen, Peet’s Coffee Decaf, or Café Altura.
Does Starbucks Use Chemicals in Decaf?
Yes, Starbucks uses methylene chloride in most of its decaf coffee, except for a few that use the Swiss Water Process. Their decaf Pike Place Roast is available in the Swiss Water version, but many of their other decaf options are chemically processed. If you want a Starbucks decaf without chemicals, check the label or ask if the coffee uses Swiss Water decaffeination.
Is There Anything Unhealthy About Decaf Coffee?
Decaf coffee is generally safe, but some concerns exist. Chemical decaffeination methods (using methylene chloride or ethyl acetate) leave trace amounts of solvents. Additionally, decaf coffee may have lower antioxidant levels than regular coffee, and some people experience digestive issues due to its acidity. Choosing a chemical-free decaf coffee (like Swiss Water Process or CO2-processed brands) minimizes potential health risks.
Best Instant Decaf Coffee Consumer Reports
According to Consumer Reports, some of the best instant decaf coffees include:
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Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf – Smooth taste, organic, chemical-free.
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Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf Italian Roast – Bold, full-bodied flavor.
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Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf House Blend – Affordable, mild, and well-balanced.
For the latest rankings, check Consumer Reports’ website or reviews.
What Is the Best Instant Decaf Coffee on Reddit?
Reddit users frequently recommend:
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Mount Hagen Organic Decaf – Often praised for its clean taste and organic quality.
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Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf – Liked for its strong, brewed coffee flavor.
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Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf – Appreciated for its budget-friendly quality.
Redditors generally suggest avoiding generic grocery store brands and opting for higher-quality, Swiss Water-processed decaf.
Best Instant Decaf Coffee Swiss Water Process
The best instant decaf coffees using the Swiss Water Process include:
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Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf – Widely regarded as the best.
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Café Altura Organic Decaf Instant – Great organic, chemical-free option.
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Jo Coffee No Fun Jo Decaf – Another premium choice.
These brands remove caffeine without chemicals and offer rich, natural flavors.
Best Instant Coffee Grocery Store
The best instant coffees available in most grocery stores include:
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Mount Hagen Organic Instant Coffee (decaf and regular)
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Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee (decaf and regular)
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Nescafé Taster’s Choice (mild, balanced taste)
These are widely available and provide the best instant coffee experience.
Best Decaf Coffee
The best decaf coffees overall include:
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Peet’s Coffee Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend – Full-bodied and bold.
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Mount Hagen Organic Decaf – Best instant, chemical-free.
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Café Altura Organic Decaf – Swiss Water Process, smooth taste.
Choose based on your flavor preference and decaffeination method.
Best Instant Coffee Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports often ranks these instant coffees highly:
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Mount Hagen Organic Instant Coffee (decaf and regular)
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Starbucks VIA Instant
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Nescafé Taster’s Choice
For the latest rankings, check Consumer Reports’ website.
Mount Hagen Decaf Instant Coffee
Mount Hagen is one of the best instant decaf coffees, known for its smooth taste, organic certification, and chemical-free Swiss Water Process. It’s a great choice for those who want a clean, high-quality decaf without additives.
Best Decaf Coffee Consumer Reports
According to Consumer Reports, the best decaf coffees include:
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Peet’s Coffee Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend
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Mount Hagen Organic Decaf Instant Coffee
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Starbucks Decaf Pike Place Roast (Swiss Water Process version)
These options offer great taste and are free from chemical solvents.
Great Instant Decaf Coffee?
Some of the best instant decaf coffees include:
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Mount Hagen Organic Decaf – Smooth, organic, and chemical-free.
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Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf – Strong, brewed-like taste.
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Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf – Affordable and mild.
Thoughts and Recommendations for a Decent Decaf Instant Coffee in NZ?
If you’re in New Zealand, some good decaf instant coffees available include:
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Mount Hagen Organic Decaf – Often sold in specialty stores or online.
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Robert Harris Decaf Instant Coffee – A popular local NZ brand.
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Nescafé Gold Decaf – Available in most supermarkets.
Look for Swiss Water or CO2 Process decaf for the best quality.
I Drank a Lot of Decaf, So You Don’t Have To: My Recommendations
After trying many decaf coffees, my top picks are:
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Best Instant Decaf – Mount Hagen Organic Decaf.
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Best Budget Instant – Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf.
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Best Overall Decaf – Peet’s Coffee Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend.
These offer the best taste, quality, and decaf processing methods.
Best Decaf Coffee? Instant and Otherwise.
For instant, Mount Hagen and Starbucks VIA Decaf are top choices.
For brewed decaf, go for Peet’s Decaf Major Dickason’s Blend or Café Altura.
Are There Decaf Instant Coffees That Don’t Taste Like Shit?
Yes! Try Mount Hagen Organic Decaf, Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf, or Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf for good flavor and no weird aftertaste.
Conclusion
The best instant decaf coffee balances flavor, quality, and a safe decaffeination process.
Mount Hagen Organic Freeze-Dried Decaf consistently ranks as the top choice due to its smooth taste, organic certification, and Swiss Water decaffeination method, which avoids chemicals. Starbucks VIA Instant Decaf is another strong contender, offering a bold, full-bodied flavor similar to brewed coffee.
For a more budget-friendly option, Nescafé Taster’s Choice Decaf provides a mild, well-balanced taste. Ultimately, the best instant decaf depends on your preference for organic, bold, or affordable coffee, but choosing a Swiss Water or CO2 processed brand ensures the healthiest option.