1. Read the label : Make sure that there are descriptions of ' Natural mineral Water', 'Sparkling Natural Mineral water', 'Bottled at source at xxxxx', and ' No treatment', or 'No process'.

2. Do not be misled by the graphics of snow-capped mountains, or descriptions such as Natural Spring Water, Natural Mountain Water, Natural Artesian Water, Natural Glacial Water, or even Natural Rain Water as these are just purified drinking water that have undergone physical and chemical treatments to make the water portable.

3. Compare the Minerals Content statement on the front of the label. Go for the lowest content of NO3 or Nitrates (Cancer-causing agent!) If there is not information on Nitrates, do not even consider drinking it. Avoid excessive Na or Sodium especially for cardio-vascular patients; too much SO4 or Sulphates are laxatives , and take special note on the potentially harmful amount of minerals such as Selenium, Borates, Fluorides and Bromates etc.

4. Preferably bottled in glass bottle as plastic packaging affects the taste of the water due to the volatile chemicals released from the plastic.

5. Premium quality Natural Mineral Water is a rare resource. It is usually bottled in limited quantity and is available only at special outlets such as fine restaurants and upper-end supermarkets.

6. Taste - Compare the taste by drinking the water of different brands, one after another at room temperature. Premium natural mineral water should taste 'Clean, fresh, bright , light, smooth and with a hint of sweet finish'.

7. If possible, go and see the source and the bottling plant which should be located in one place. If you are not allowed to see and drink the water at the to the bottle, or if you see chemical or physical treatments of the water. Forget it! It is NOT Natural Mineral Water. Just turn on the tap-water and save your dollars.