Tap Water vs Bottled Water

Not many years ago, the main source of drinking water for homes was from the tap. Water bottling companies have marketed bottled water so successfully that it feels wrong drinking water from the tap. This begs the question whether the water from the tap is good and comparable with bottled water. To help you understand the differences, here is a comprehensive comparison highlighting bottled and tap water.

Water Quality

One of the concerns that drive people to consume more bottled water than tap water is quality. Many people believe bottled water is the purest, but this is not necessarily true since tap water is also treated at different points before it reaches your home. The government regulates tap water and there are guidelines spelled out that prevent the introduction of potentially harmful substances in drinking water. These regulations specify that municipalities should test water sources to ensure they are within acceptable limits. Bottled water is also subjected to the same requirements as bottling companies have to comply with the regulations set by the government regarding production and distribution of drinking water. The water is inspected for the presence of poisonous or harmful substances.

Taste

Taste is another common reason people prefer bottled water vs tap water. It tastes better compared to tap water. However, this should not be a reason to completely deny you the opportunity to save money by drinking tap water. You can filter it to remove the strange taste. Get a water filter, which does not have to cost much as there are small portable ones that can filter water enough for the entire family. However, in many states tap water does not taste bad, and it’s just people’s bias that prevents them from consuming it.

Safety

Also paramount while deciding what to pick between bottled and tap water is safe. In some cases, the fears people have against tap water are reasonable. Bottled water is regulated as a food product, so there is a need for compliance with safety measures. The source and methods of treatment are strictly regulated by the government. It is not the case with tap water since this is regulated under a different act, which does not place much emphasis on compliance.

Sustainability

When you consider safety and taste, bottled water might appear more attractive. However, viewing. the comparison from a point of view centered on the environment you will find tap water more suitable. Bottles are made from polyethylene terephthalate, a kind of plastic. This material produces toxic chemicals to the air during the manufacturing process and is one of the things that contribute to greenhouse gases. At each stage of production, bottled water requires energy, and the packaging waste is another burden to the environment. With all these factors in mind, tap water comes as the best alternative.

Comparisons between tap and bottled water could help to inform you about the best option. Considering cost, many people will prefer tap water, which is not bad off even from a quality perspective. Due to differences in taste, some people believe bottled water is the best option. However, both are regulated and you will barely find tap water that can be harmful to your health.