Distillations: Science + Culture + History

We all know hydration is important to health, but many people find water boring to drink. Juice and Coke aren’t boring, but they aren’t very healthy either. One way to transform water into a more exciting drink is to add bubbles. For centuries carbonated water from natural springs was used as a medicine. Now lifestyle and health concerns have combined to drive fizzy water’s renewed popularity. Join us as we unpack the long history of carbonated water, from natural mineral springs, to the invention of artificial carbonation by a radical 18th-century chemist, to the fading tradition of seltzer deliverymen in New York City. Show Clock 00:01 Intro 00:24 The rise of fizzy water  04:30 Seltzer Boys 06:40 What's the difference between seltzer, mineral water, and club soda?  08:22 The history of carbonated water   11:55 Seltzer and health Credits Hosts: Michal Meyer and Bob Kenworthy Producer:  Mariel CarrAssociate Producer: Rigoberto HernandezReporter: Rigoberto HernandezAdditional production by Kyrie Greenberg  Spe