The Evils of the Bottled Water Industry

Advertised as being a convenient way to improve health, the bottled water industry has a dark side. The production of bottled water poses one threat. However, the effects of bottled water can have on human health could last for decades. Consumers and the environment would be much better off if everyone used a home water treatment system to fill reusable bottles instead.

Production in the Bottled Water Industry

Estimated to reach over £1.1 billion in revenue in the UK and well over $65 billion globally by the end of 2019, one can’t deny the bottled water industry is profitable. However, consumers need to be aware of the costs not included in these numbers. For example, companies waste three bottles worth of water for each bottle they fill. The energy they use annually could power more than 200,000 homes. And this doesn’t include the waste created from manufacturing the plastic, transporting the final product from the bottling company to the consumer’s home, or what happens when someone tossed the bottle away.

Bottled Water and Its Effect on Health

Perhaps most worrisome are the health implications of consuming the water. In truth, almost half of all water sold in bottles comes from the tap, so it doesn’t start unhealthy. What causes the most concern is the contaminants introduced during the processing and storage of the water.

Almost all bottled water tested in a recent study contained microplastics and other dissolved solids. These have potential links to everything from ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder to cancer. Coliform, typically found in human waste, has also been found in major bottled water industry brands. There were more radioactive materials and various metals than some healthy vitamins and minerals. Then, there are chemicals such as arsenic, pesticides, disinfectants, and phenols known as poisons.

Home Water Treatment

Rather than buying bottles of water that have undergone chemical treatments and sat in a warehouse for weeks, months, or even years, it’s better to filter and treat water at home. This way, consumers can feel confident about the source, and they have an endless supply. They know where the water has been and what treatments the water has. And it’s cost-effective. Many water treatment systems are available to suit any home and budget.

The bottled water industry may look refreshing, but it isn’t as squeaky clean as they’d like consumers to believe. Home water treatments are a better option. They save money and the environment. And the reusable bottles available now are healthier and trendy. In short, they are the smart way to keep the family hydrated.