BOTTLED WATER – KNOW WHAT YOU ARE BUYING

　　Navigating Your Bottled Water Selection

　　Bottled water has soared in popularity, becoming a leading beverage choice in the United States, with consumers investing billions each year (Beverage Marketing Corporation, 2004). Consumers are drawn to bottled water for various reasons, including as an alternative to other beverages, for its taste, or for perceived health benefits over tap water. Our previous discussions have highlighted the diverse origins of bottled water. Bottles often display terms that convey the water’s characteristics, source, and treatment. To gauge the quality of bottled water, one should begin by reviewing the label, which should include details about the type of water, its source, treatment process, nutritional content, and the bottler’s contact information. For further clarification, direct dialogue with the bottler might be required.

　　The array of bottled water types encompasses:

• Artesian, groundwater, spring, and well water: Derived from subterranean aquifers, these may receive treatment or not. Spring water is collected at the spring or via boreholes, while groundwater extraction may use either method.
• Distilled water: Resulting from the condensation of boiling water vapor, this type lacks natural minerals and may seem tasteless after microbial removal.
• Drinking water: Packaged specifically for consumption, it may include optional sanitizers and fluoride within permissible limits.
• Mineral water: Groundwater with a natural mineral concentration of at least 250 parts per million.
• Purified water: origin from any source, meeting U.S. Pharmacopeia standards, generally devoid of chemicals, and potentially free of microbes if properly treated.
• Sterile water: Treated to conform to U.S. Pharmacopeia sterilization standards, completely free of microbes.

　　Bottled water labels use Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved descriptors to indicate the water’s geological source and treatment, which may not always match consumer expectations. Descriptions like "spring water" or "glacier water" do not necessarily assure the source’s purity or location. The term "purified" signifies chemical and pathogen removal but doesn’t necessarily imply microbe-free status.

　　Essential label information must include the type of water, manufacturing details, and net content. For peace of mind regarding water safety, consumers should reach out to the bottler for the latest test results and treatment specifics.

　　Related Links:

• The Bottled Water Purification Process
• One Third of Bottled Water Contains Contaminants
• Common Bottled Water Treatment Methods