Bottled Water Found to Be Far Less Safe Than Tap Water, Scientists Warn

If you believe that bottled water is safer than tap water, recent research may change your mind. Contrary to popular belief, studies indicate that tap water is often the safer choice in many parts of the world.

A commentary published in BMJ Global Health by researchers from Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar highlights that bottled water in the U.S. frequently lacks the stringent quality and safety checks that tap water undergoes. As a result, bottled water can contain harmful chemicals that leach from plastic containers.

Microplastics in Bottled Water Pose Hidden Health Risks

Estimates suggest that between 10% and 78% of bottled water samples contain contaminants such as microplastics and phthalates, which are chemicals used to enhance the durability of plastics. Microplastic contamination has been linked to oxidative stress, immune system issues, and changes in fat levels.

“While short-term safety thresholds exist, the long-term impacts of these contaminants are still largely unknown.” 

The authors emphasize that relying on bottled water poses significant health, financial, and environmental challenges, necessitating a reassessment of its widespread use.

Bottled Water Contributes to a Growing Environmental Crisis

Moreover, the environmental impact of bottled water is significant. With one million bottles purchased every minute globally, they are the second most common ocean pollutant after plastic bags, accounting for 12% of all plastic waste. The recycling rate for plastic bottles is low, with most ending up in landfills or incinerators. Producing these bottles is also resource-intensive; it takes between 17 and 35 liters of water to manufacture a single plastic bottle.

Source: Science Focus