Sometimes, yes! And this is where the irony is thick enough to cut with a lime wedge. Many major brands (think LaCroix, Bubly, or store brand seltzers) add a tiny pinch of potassium bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate to balance the acidity. They do this to make the water taste less harsh.
But here’s the funny thing: that pinch is usually so small that you shouldn’t taste it. Unless, of course, the carbonic acid has already riled up your salt receptors. Then you taste it double. So you’re getting a double-whammy of false saltiness and actual mineral salt. Sneaky, right?
Your Personal pH Playlist
Different seltzers have different levels of carbonation. More bubbles = more carbonic acid = more potential for that salty illusion. A lightly fizzy Perrier might not trigger it, but a high-test, aggressive club soda? Oh, you’ll feel the brine.
And your own saliva matters! If you’re dehydrated, your saliva is more concentrated. When the bubbly acid hits that, it can exaggerate the salty sensation even further. So if you’re thirsty, your seltzer might taste saltier. Talk about adding insult to injury.
Ultimate Seltzer Taste Test - YouTube Thumbnail on Behance
