What Are Water Bottled?
Bottled water is a popular beverage, and it’s quickly becoming the #1 source of hydration for many people. About half of Americans drink bottled water regularly, and the amount is expected to double in the next decade.
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There are a number of different types of water that can be bottled, including tap water, iceberg water, and spring water. The best-bottled waters come from natural sources, such as springs or wells, that have been protected from contamination by the local water authority and law. In fact, the FDA has rules that require companies to label their bottled water with the source and treatment of the water.
The main advantage of bottled water is that it can be used to provide a source of safe drinking water when municipal water supplies are not available or if a community is affected by natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Other advantages include being less expensive than tap water and providing a variety of flavors and sources that meet consumer preferences.
When we think of bottled water, we tend to think of a company like Perrier Vittel (Nestle S.A.) or DANONE Group, which are the two largest bottled water companies in the world. But there are also several small and medium-sized bottled water companies that produce high-quality bottled water.
Aside from the obvious environmental impact of bottled water, there are also some health concerns about the products. For one, the plastic bottles that bottled water comes in can be harmful to humans. Studies show that plastics can contain obesogens that may affect hormone levels and contribute to obesity.
Some bottled water is produced by a process called reverse osmosis, which uses pressure to remove a wide range of impurities from the water. Some bottled water also includes fluoride, which can help protect against tooth decay.
The EPA and the FDA regulate the production and sale of bottled water. These agencies require the water to be tested for contaminants, and they set limits on the levels of certain substances such as arsenic, lead, and radon.
During the process of treating the water, it can be exposed to bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These contaminants can cause gastrointestinal illness and other health problems. Those with weakened immune systems, infants, children, and the elderly are more at risk of contracting these infections.
In addition, if a water bottle is opened and its contents spill, it can be contaminated. The FDA requires that bottled water manufacturers put an antimicrobial additive in their bottled water.
There are also a number of other laws that govern the bottled water industry, such as the FDA’s requirements for labeling. Manufacturers must also disclose if the water originally came from an untreated municipal water source and if they’ve added any chemicals to it, such as fluoride.
The bottled water industry also claims that its products have been tested and proven to be free of contamination. It points to its certification by the National Sanitation Foundation, which tests the bottled water for contaminants and the container-sealing process.