Spa Water, a term recently popularized on social media, refers to infused water with fruits, vegetables, and sometimes herbs. This seemingly simple beverage sparked a heated debate online, raising questions about cultural sensitivity and appropriation.

While many associate spa water with modern wellness trends, its roots can be traced back centuries to a traditional Latin American drink called agua fresca. Agua fresca, meaning “fresh water,” is a staple in many Latin American countries, made by blending fruits, vegetables, or flowers with water and then straining the mixture.

The controversy began when a wellness influencer shared a recipe for “spa water” on TikTok, featuring cucumber and sugar. The recipe closely resembled agua fresca, leading to accusations of cultural appropriation and the erasure of the drink’s historical and cultural significance.

The influencer’s use of the term “spa water” to describe a drink already well-established within Latin American culture ignited a backlash on social media. Many users pointed out the similarities between the two beverages and criticized the influencer for rebranding a traditional drink as a new trend. Some users satirized the situation by creating videos in which they attempted to order “spa water” from traditional agua fresca vendors, highlighting the absurdity of renaming a culturally significant beverage.

The incident sparked a wider discussion about cultural appropriation in the food and beverage industry. Critics argued that renaming agua fresca as “spa water” not only erased its cultural origins but also potentially profited from a tradition that did not belong to the influencer. The term “Columbusing” was used to describe the act of presenting something from a marginalized culture as a new discovery.

This controversy underscores the importance of acknowledging and respecting the cultural heritage of food and drinks. While sharing and enjoying recipes from different cultures is encouraged, it is crucial to do so with proper attribution and understanding. Simply acknowledging the origins of agua fresca and using its correct name could have prevented this controversy.

The incident ultimately led to the influencer deleting the original videos and issuing an apology, acknowledging the harm caused to the Latin American community. The controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity and the need for creators to be mindful of the origins and significance of the content they share. It also highlights the power of social media to hold individuals accountable for cultural appropriation. While spa water may seem like a simple beverage, the controversy surrounding it speaks volumes about the complexities of cultural exchange in the digital age.