Bottled Water – Is It Worth Paying For?

Billions of dollars are spent every year on bottled water – something that you can get for almost free in your own home! Everyone complains about the high prices of gas and food, yet they are also willing to pay ridiculous amounts for water imported from France, Switzerland and even Texas.

So, why are we willing to pay so much for something we can get for mere pennies from our own faucet? Ask anyone, and they will tell you that it’s simply because it’s cleaner, healthier and it tastes better. But, would you believe that many studies have discovered that this isn’t actually true. Here are a couple facts you need to take into consideration before parting with your hard earned money.

• Although it’s a common belief that bottled water is healthier and safer for you, recent tests seem to indicate otherwise. Tests that have been conducted on various water supplies have discovered that the amount of bacteria and harmful organisms in tap water is no higher than in regular bottled water. There are even more organizations in place to test and ensure water purity for tap water than there are for bottled water. Not only that, tap water contains fluoride and other additives that help give you a healthy smile, so it’s important for bottled water drinkers to use regular fluoride treatments to ensure good oral health. On the other hand, you can buy bottled water now with added nutrients, which aren’t found in tap water.
• Another belief that is now being questioned is that bottled water tastes better. However, a blind taste test in New York City actually found that people preferred the taste of tap water to many brands of bottled water! And, would you believe that Evian, one of the most expensive brands of bottled water, actually ranked lowest among tasters. Try it for yourself. Set up your own taste test. Get a friend to set up different types of water, and judge for yourself. You may be surprised at the results!

Even if you can’t stand the taste of it, or just can’t get over your distrust of tap water, you can always buy a filter to attach to the tap, or use a pitcher with a filter built in. These will filter out any elements in water that cause bad tastes and smells, but they don’t cost anywhere near as much as bottled waters. This probably explains the response of bottled water makers in coming out with flavored water, which you can’t get from a tap.

While all of these studies indicate that bottled water isn’t necessarily better than tap, there are still a few things you need to consider before giving up your expensive habit.

One thing you need to consider is your location. Many studies have only been done in a few cities. Some cities will have cleaner water than others due to differing restrictions and technology. Make sure you check with your local government to find out how safe the water is where you live. You should also be able to obtain independent studies of the water’s content.

The other thing you need to consider is your pets. Many people aren’t aware that certain water can actually harm pets. So, although tap water may be healthy for human consumption, it isn’t necessarily safe for your pets. Look into what’s in the water before you ever give it to any animal.

Ultimately, it’s your decision, but with a little research and small amount of investment for a filter, you can have access to great tasting, safe water from your tap. And, the price tag is definitely lower!

Tags: bottled water, budget, Health, tap water, water