Types of Bacteria in Bottled Water

Bottled water manufacturers must follow comprehensive rules and meet state, national and international standards before distribution. Even after these guidelines have been followed, bacteria can still be found in most commercial bottled water. In Texas Southern University study, 35 brands were tested for biological contamination. Of the 16 types of spring water, six showed minor bacterial contamination. From the 11 purified and fortified tap water bottles, three were contaminated. Though this does not mean that bottled water is not safe for human consumption, it can be considered dangerous for critically ill patients or people with compromised immune systems.

Ralstonia Pickettii

• Although this type of bacteria does not usually cause diseases in human beings, there have been hospital reports in which Ralstonia pickettii infections were found in critically ill patients with cystic fibrosis and other diseases. This bacteria is abundant in soil, and thus can be commonly found in lake and river water.

Agrobacterium Rhizogenes

• Agrobacterium rhizogenes is most commonly found in soil, like various other types of bacteria, that has a negative impact on plants. It has been reported to infect people who have a weakened immune system.

Klebsiella Terrigena

• One of the eight most frequent causes of diseases in hospitals is the Klebsiella terrigena bacteria. It is generally found in water because of its abundance in soil, but this bacteria's ability to cause diseases in humans is unknown. This is due to the fact that it is only rarely isolated from humans.

Acidovorax Temperans and Delafieldii

• Acidovorax bacteria is constantly found in the sludge water of water treatment plants because it is considered a normal component of activated sludge treatment systems. Though it is commonly found in sludge water, there has been only one reported case of disease associated with Acidovorax bacteria.