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Hazards of Bottled Water

Bottled water is generally thought of as superior in quality to tap water however, in some cases tap water is used to fill consumer bottled water. Other sources of water, such as spring water, are naturally exposed to hazardous material. In addition, the process of bottling spring water can introduce foreign substances that are unhealthy to people.

  1. Chemical Hazards

    • A four year study by the National Resources Defense Council found that 22 percent of the bottled water brands tested have chemical contaminants at higher levels than permitted by state laws. Chemicals such as arsenic were found in bottled water, and this can build up in the body over time. The National Resources Defense Council estimates that 25 percent of bottled water is actually tap water sold in a bottle. Therefore, the chemicals present in tap water may also be contained in those bottled water brands.

    Bacterial Hazards

    • Coliform bacteria are found in plants and soil and these organisms can enter drinking water when it is sourced. Coliform bacteria poses the most threat when the bacteria mutates into a strain called Escherichia coli, better known as E. Coli. The Center for Disease Control monitors outbreaks of E. Coli strain 0157:H7, as this pathogen is known to cause serious illness. The FDA does not regulate the content of Coliform bacteria in bottled drinking water.

    Phthalate Hazards

    • Phthalates are plasticizers, synthetic (man-made) organic chemicals used to make plastic malleable. Phthalates are not chemically bound to plastic during the manufacturing process, which allows the material to seep into anything it touches. Bottled water contaminated with phthalates can act as an endocrine disruptor, which can lead to abnormal male sexual development, male infertility, and premature breast development. Studies have also linked this hazard to cancer, miscarriage, premature birth and asthma.

    Solid Hazards

    • Studies by the Natural Resource Defense Council have revealed inconsistent quality with bottled water manufacturers. Compounding the concern is that bottled water standards lack requirements for informing consumers of contaminants found in the water. Though rare, physical solids can pass screening during the bottling process and make it inside the bottles. Items such as food coloring, industrial solvents, plastic, and other contaminants are then swallowed, which can lead to abnormal digestion and related illnesses.

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