In today’s world, bottled water is everywhere, and many people assume it’s a safer option compared to the water from their taps. But, do you know where this bottled water really comes from? A study has shed light on some surprising facts that might change your perspective on bottled water for good.
Conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), this groundbreaking research revealed that a staggering 64% of bottled water sold across the United States is simply repackaged tap water. If you’re like many consumers, paying extra for bottled water may seem unnecessary when a similar product is available from your kitchen faucet for free.
The Eyes of the StudyTesting ten popular bottled water brands, the study uncovered each brand had about eight different contaminants. These weren’t small impurities; we’re talking about substances like caffeine, acetaminophen, fertilizers, plastic-derived chemicals, and more.
The Big OffendersParticularly two brands, Sam’s Choice from Walmart and Acadia from Giant Food, were found to contain higher levels of these contaminants. So much so that Sam’s Choice didn’t meet some of California’s bottled water standards.
Why So Many Contaminants?The surprising truth is that most bottled water comes from municipal water systems and undergoes some additional filtering or purification before being sold. However, this doesn’t always mean it’s purer than what comes out of your tap.
Regulatory DifferencesMany believe bottled water is held to higher standards, but that’s a misconception. While the FDA does regulate bottled water, it’s under less stringent guidelines compared to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which oversees tap water regulation.
For tap water, the EPA ensures rigorous testing under the Safe Drinking Water Act, but bottled water companies face less scrutiny, particularly when it comes to divulging water sources and treatment methods.
Transparency Is KeyIn their assessment, the EWG focused on three criteria to evaluate bottled water brands:
• Water Source Transparency: Brands need to disclose where they get their water.
• Purification Methods: Do brands explain how the water is treated and refined?
• Test Result Disclosure: Are the findings from their water quality tests available to the public?
Hardly any brand met these key transparency criteria, with only three brands standing out for their openness in 2011: Gerber Pure Purified Water, Nestle Pure Life Purified Water, and Penta Ultra-Purified Water.
Steps Towards Transparency
What should bottled water companies do to enhance transparency? Here are a few measures:
Bottled water brands should clearly label specific water sources and treatment methods.
They should provide accessible water quality reports, listing all chemical findings.
Testing for unregulated chemicals from plastic leaching needs to be prioritized, ensuring consumer safety.
Seeking Better Alternatives
Considering all this information, you might be wondering if it makes more sense to rely on filtered tap water for daily drinking needs. By opting for a reusable bottle and filling it with filtered tap, you’re likely choosing the healthier and more environmentally friendly option.
The Rise of Reusable Bottles
Using a reusable water bottle filled with filtered tap water is not just a safe choice, but a step towards environmental sustainability. It reduces dependency on single-use plastics and helps in decreasing the overall environmental burden.
Be Aware
Understanding that bottled water isn’t necessarily safer, it’s clear we as consumers should stay informed and push for more transparency from these big companies. Opt for safe and clean drinking sources by being proactive about the quality of water you’re consuming.
Looking Ahead
As consumers, it’s crucial to demand more transparency from bottled water brands and support healthier, more sustainable options. Making informed decisions not only impacts personal well-being but also contributes positively to our planet’s sustainability.
