Bottled Water Vs. Tap Water – Which Should You Choose?

The debate of tap water versus bottled water has been around for years. Both choices have pros and cons, and ultimately tap water and bottled water are safe to drink. However, tap water is regulated by the government and must meet specific safety standards. Bottled water is not regulated as closely and may not be as safe to drink as one might think.

More on Tap Water
Tap water is usually cheaper than bottled water. This is because we already pay for our tap water as a standard utility, and the process of our tap water is paid for through our local taxes. Meanwhile, we purchase our bottled water, and some of it can be on the pricey side.

It is thought that the water in the United States is some of the safest water in the world to drink, according to the CDC. This is due to stringent testing. The Safe Drinking Water Act sets standards that test for identifying and regulating contaminants found in ground and tap water. The Environmental Protection Agency monitors the testing.

You can receive your local testing results by contacting the water company in your area. In addition, if you are concerned, there are a variety of carbon filter pitchers and taps available on the market to help you get the most out of your tap water.

More On Bottled Water
Bottled water is more convenient than tap water when you’re on the go. Refilling your thermos with tap water is more difficult when you’re not at home or work. Therefore people tend to pick up a few bottles of water when they’re out and about, so they have something to drink.

As we learn more about microplastics in our environment, bottled water companies are working to ensure they provide a safe way to deliver their product to us. This is still a hotly debated topic as the argument against the one-time use of plastics is expected to continue.

Still, many enjoy the convenience of bottled water. It is easy to store in case of emergency and quick to grab on your way out the door. Bottled water companies have also been able to add nutrients to their products that entice customers to lean toward their purchase. Electrolytes, vitamins, and other nutrients may swing you to purchase your favorite brand over simply getting your water from the tap.

What About the Taste?
A 2010 study concluded that most people could not tell the difference between tap and bottled water. This study leans more toward perceived taste and safety than any actual evidence in deciding whether to purchase water or drink it from the tap.

Conclusion
In the end, both tap and bottled water have pros and cons. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which type of water they prefer to drink. Most people end up with a mix of both, which might be the best answer.

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/water_treatment.html
https://health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/bottled-water-vs-tap-water
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1745-459X.2010.00280.x