Spindrift sparkling water is already exceptionally clean with just carbonated water and real lemon juice - no seed oils, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This is one of the few commercial beverages that doesn't need ingredient swapping, just cost optimization through DIY carbonation.
Based on: Sparkling Water
· Makes approximately 24 servings (12 oz each)
· Serving: 1 can (355g / 12 fl oz)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Sparkling Water from spindrift often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original Sparkling Water may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Ingredients
Filtered water
9 liters (2.4 gallons) · Home filtered water or Mountain Valley Spring Water
Base for carbonation - provides clean mineral profile without chlorine or fluoride
Fresh organic lemons
3-4 large lemons (about 240g) · Organic lemons from Whole Foods or local organic market
Natural citrus flavor and minimal natural sugars - provides authentic taste without artificial flavors
Instructions
Step 1. Set up your carbonation system: If using a SodaStream, ensure the CO2 cartridge is properly installed and the water bottle is clean. For manual siphon systems, chill the siphon in refrigerator for 30 minutes before use. Cold water holds carbonation much better than room temperature water.
Step 2. Prepare the lemon juice: Wash 3-4 organic lemons thoroughly under cold water. Roll them on the counter while applying pressure to break down internal membranes - this releases more juice. Cut in half and juice using a citrus reamer or fork, straining out seeds. You need approximately 4-6 tablespoons (60-90ml) of fresh lemon juice total for the batch.
Step 3. Carbonate the water: Fill your carbonation bottle with filtered water, leaving 1 inch of headspace for carbonation expansion. Carbonate according to your device instructions - typically 3-4 pumps for SodaStream gives medium carbonation. For siphon systems, charge with 1 CO2 cartridge per liter of water.
Step 4. Mix and portion: Add 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon (2.5-4ml) of fresh lemon juice per 12 oz serving of sparkling water. Start with less - you can always add more. Stir very gently to avoid losing carbonation. The goal is subtle lemon flavor, not lemonade.
Step 5. Storage and serving: Store carbonated water in refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for best carbonation retention. Store fresh lemon juice separately in refrigerator for up to 5 days. Mix individual servings as needed to maintain optimal carbonation and fresh citrus flavor.
Storage
Carbonated water stays fresh 2-3 days refrigerated. Fresh lemon juice keeps 5 days refrigerated. Mix individual servings fresh to maintain carbonation.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.06
Cost per serving (store-bought)$0.83
Savings93%
High upfront cost for carbonation equipment ($95) pays back after about 120 servings (5-6 batches). Massive long-term savings since you're only paying for CO2 refills and fresh lemons versus premium sparkling water pricing.