Does Aquafina Support Israel? Yes, it does.

Aquafina, a well-known bottled water brand owned by PepsiCo, has come under scrutiny for its indirect ties to Israel.

This connection stems not from Aquafina itself, but from its parent company’s business activities and partnerships in the region. Let’s take a closer look at the situation.

PepsiCo’s Connections to Israel

In 2018, PepsiCo acquired SodaStream, an Israeli company specializing in home carbonation products, for $3.2 billion.

SodaStream had previously operated a manufacturing facility in the West Bank, an area under Israeli occupation.

Although the company relocated this facility to southern Israel in 2015, it has remained a controversial entity due to its past operations.

PepsiCo also owns 50% of Sabra Dipping Company, a brand known for its hummus products. Sabra has faced criticism for its perceived connections to Israel, further fueling debates about PepsiCo’s business ties in the region.

Boycotts and Consumer Perception

These partnerships have led to boycotts of PepsiCo products, including Aquafina, by supporters of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement.

Platforms like The Witness and Masjid Al-Aqsa have listed Aquafina as a brand to avoid due to its parent company’s links to Israel.

In areas such as Kashmir, local communities have organized boycotts of Aquafina during key events.

These actions are often motivated by the belief that purchasing PepsiCo products indirectly supports Israel through its business dealings.

PepsiCo’s Philanthropic Efforts

PepsiCo has also engaged in humanitarian efforts in the region. The PepsiCo Foundation pledged $1 million to organizations aiding communities affected by the conflict in both Israel and Gaza.

While this initiative reflects a commitment to supporting those in need, it has not significantly altered perceptions among pro-Palestinian groups.

What Does This Mean for Aquafina?

Aquafina, as a standalone brand, does not have direct operations or partnerships in Israel.

However, its association with PepsiCo links it to the broader controversy. For many consumers, this connection is enough to prompt a boycott of the brand.

Alternatives to Aquafina

For those seeking alternatives, here are some options:

• Local Water Brands: Supporting local brands helps boost regional businesses and avoids potential geopolitical controversies.
• Saka Water: This brand from Türkiye is gaining popularity as an ethical alternative.
• Fiji Water: Known for its high-quality bottled water sourced from Fiji.
• Voss Water: A premium water brand from Norway with no ties to PepsiCo.

Final Thoughts

While Aquafina does not directly support Israel, its parent company’s business activities in the region have led to a perception of indirect support.

This has sparked debates and boycotts among consumers who prioritize ethical purchasing decisions.

Whether to continue supporting Aquafina depends on individual perspectives and values, but understanding these connections is essential for making informed choices.