Drinking tap water safer than bottled water, says new research

Contrary to the popular perception, tap water in the US is safer than the bottled water available in the country.

Despite health regulations around tap water that makes it safer and research studies supporting its use, it has fallen out of popularity among people with 96% of people buying bottled water and 1 in 5 drinking only consuming bottled water.

A new study published in BMJ Global Health says that tap water in the US is almost always a healthier choice than bottled water.

The report notes that while there are regions where drinking water is contaminated, tap water is generally considered safe, inexpensive, convenient and eco-friendly in high-income and upper-middle-income countries that adhere to rigorous safety standards. However, it says that low-income and middle-income countries must invest in infrastructure and safe tap water availability.

Tap water in the United States is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure its safety and protect public health. The Safe Drinking Water Act, passed by Congress in 1974, sets the standards for the nation’s drinking water. This act mandates that public water systems comply with EPA regulations, including monitoring water quality and providing transparent reports of their findings. Additionally, the law requires municipal water systems to issue annual water quality reports to consumers, helping them stay informed about the safety of their drinking water. These regulations are crucial for maintaining the integrity of public water supplies across the country.

Bottled water on the other hand is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration which has more relaxed regulations than tap water; therefore, regulators must implement stronger measures to ensure safety and quality, noted the report.

Studies have proved that plastic from water bottles leaches into the water, which can contain 240,000 detectable plastic fragments per liter. Of those fragments, 90% were nanoplastics, tiny pieces of plastic linked to a range of health issues, including heart disease and cancer.

Studies indicate that microplastic contamination is associated with oxidative stress, immune dysregulation and potential obesogenic effects through alteration of lipid metabolism. Such contaminants are frequently classified as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the normal functioning of reproductive hormones, thyroid hormones and glucocorticoid receptors, especially during critical embryonic stages.

However, tap water isn’t without its own share of problems. A study published in 2023 found the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), aka forever chemicals, in about 45% of US drinking water samples. Another study detected the presence of contaminants like arsenic, fracking fluids, lead, nitrates, chlorinated disinfection byproducts, and uranium in some municipal water systems.

The report notes that plastic bottles rank as the second most prevalent ocean pollutant, and make up for 11.9% of all plastic waste.

While bottled water can be used in case of water emergencies or contamination, tap water in the US is safe to have in most cases. Besides, tap water is also economical, eco-friendly and free of processing and packaging.

Experts suggest using water filters or boiling water in case one fears contamination in certain areas.
“By prioritising tap water consumption, we can collectively address the multifaceted challenges posed by BW and embrace tap water as a cornerstone of environmental responsibility and public health,” the report concludes.