How to Pick Bottled Water

People drink bottled water for different reasons. For some it is more convenient and deters them from drinking other beverages, while others think it tastes better or is safer than tap water. However, the quality of bottled water differs depending on where it came from.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Consult the label or call the bottler to find out how the water is treated. For example, Cryptosporidium can cause severe illness or death to people with lower immune systems. This parasite can be killed through the following water treatment methods: reverse osmosis, distillation, ultraviolet light or one micron filter filtration.
2. Evaluate the cost of the bottled water. Artesian water may be more expensive than distilled water, but usually distilled water is processed more and Artesian water is not always treated.
3. Consult the bottle’s Nutrition Facts label. Carbonated water, soda water, seltzer water, sparkling water and tonic water are not regulated as bottled water. Purified and sterile water is treated to meet the U.S. Pharmacopeia standards.
4. Determine the source of the water. Bottled water from surface sources usually comes from a public water system, and it receives additional treatment. While ground water is sometimes more pure than surface water, it can still be contaminated by industrial waste, arsenic and radioactive elements.
5. Look for certified bottled water. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not certify bottled water; however, the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), NSF International and Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) hold high standards.

Tips & Warnings

• It may be cheaper and just as healthy to drink from your tap.
• Check underneath the bottle cap. Sometimes it will say that the water came from a municipal source, which means it's tap water.
• Be cautious about spring water. Check to see if there are any news articles regarding their quality.