Bottled Water Versus Tap Water: Which is Better?

In the United States, and across many developed countries, bottled water has long been considered a healthier and safer way to consume water. This, of course, is the thought process of mainstream America. In an effort to promote health, Americans work to consume the required amount of water the body needs with most of this water consumption in the form of bottled water.

But, is bottled water really safer that filtered or tap water from your sink? While most Americans would agree that the argument for consuming bottled water is simply based on taste, there are those who are adamant that bottled water provides a more safe way in which to consume the required amount of water each day. In reality, surveys have shown bottled water, in the United States, is not any healthier than tap or filtered water and, in fact, we simply choose to use bottled water out of convenience.

Beyond convenience and taste, many Americans are surprised to learn the bottled water they so love and cherish is actually pulled from public water supply and, in many cases, there is little regulation over the safety of bottled water when compared to that of tap water. Because bottled water is classified as a food product, the production and distribution of bottled water is overseen by the Food and Drug Administration, unlike tap water.

For those bottled water supplies that do not come from public water sources, there is a market for bottled water that is supplied from wells and springs and, as a general rule, are considered safe as they are not impacted by surface water contamination.

Furthermore, in areas outside of the United States, bottled water is essential especially when health alerts indicate there is regional concern over the safety of water in that country. For this reason, many Americans also choose to carry their own bottled water into other countries when traveling; such as into Mexico.

If you are an American consumer who frequently consumes bottled water, even when bottled water may not truly be necessary, consider switching to tap water in an effort to save costs. Only when your tap water is unpleasant in odor or taste, there is a public alert of contamination or your home is equipped with lead pipes, should you consider bottled water on a regular basis. Also remember that bottle waters do carry expiration dates so, when purchasing and consuming bottled water, only consume those bottled waters that are well before the expiration date and always refrigerate water as water that is left in warmer temperatures is more apt to grow bacteria.

As with any food product, following some simple guidelines will ensure you maintain optimal health. While tap water is strictly controlled by the EPA, many Americans continue to feel bottled water is a better health choice. While this may not necessarily be true, if you choose to continue to purchase bottled water, remember, as a food product, the bottled water will carry its own health and safety concerns.