Your options for drinking water in the UK
For most residents in the UK, the most readily available and cost-effective option is tap water. However, the market also presents numerous alternatives, including various forms of bottled water and home filtration systems. Understanding the pros and cons of each is key to making an informed choice that aligns with your health goals and budget.
The quality and safety of UK tap water
UK tap water is subject to stringent regulations and rigorous, frequent testing by the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI). This makes it consistently safe to drink straight from the tap for the vast majority of the population. Key considerations for tap water include:
- High Safety Standards: The DWI requires millions of tests annually to ensure tap water is safe from harmful microorganisms, chemicals, and pollutants.
- Regional Variation in 'Hardness': The mineral content of tap water varies across the country. Hard water, common in the south, contains higher levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Soft water, more prevalent in the north, has lower mineral content. Both are safe, but the mineral levels affect the taste and can cause limescale build-up in appliances in hard water areas.
- Potential for Chlorine Taste: While essential for disinfection, the residual chlorine added to tap water can sometimes affect its taste and smell, particularly in urban areas.
- Ageing Infrastructure: Old lead pipes, particularly in older properties, can sometimes leach lead into the drinking water, though water companies add chemicals to minimise this risk. Using a filter is a reliable solution for this concern.
The case for bottled water
Bottled water, whether spring, mineral, or purified, is a popular choice due to perceived purity and taste. However, the reality is more complex:
- Less frequent testing: In the UK, tap water is tested far more frequently than bottled water, which is treated as a food product.
- High Cost and Environmental Impact: Bottled water is significantly more expensive than tap water and contributes to substantial plastic waste. The transport and production processes also have a high carbon footprint.
- Microplastic Concerns: Research has detected microplastics in many bottled waters, raising health concerns.
- Mineral Content: True mineral waters, such as Evian or San Pellegrino, contain specific mineral profiles that can contribute to your daily intake of calcium and magnesium. However, the mineral contribution from water is usually minor compared to a healthy diet.
The benefits of water filtration
Filtering your tap water is a middle ground that provides the best of both worlds: the safety and low cost of tap water combined with enhanced taste and targeted contaminant removal. Options include:
- Filter Jugs: Brands like Brita, Phox, and ZeroWater use activated carbon filters to remove chlorine, microplastics, and other impurities that affect taste and smell. ZeroWater, in particular, also uses an ion exchange process to remove total dissolved solids (TDS).
- Under-Sink Systems: For a more comprehensive solution, under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) systems provide highly purified water by forcing it through a semipermeable membrane. Some even add essential minerals back in after filtration.
The rise of alkaline water
Alkaline water, which has a higher pH than regular tap water, is marketed for various health benefits, including neutralising body acidity.
- Natural vs. Ionised: Some bottled waters are naturally alkaline, gathering minerals from rocks. Others are produced using an electrical process called electrolysis.
- Controversial Claims: Many health claims surrounding alkaline water are not yet supported by strong scientific evidence, and experts caution against relying on it for disease prevention.
- Generally Safe: Drinking natural alkaline water is typically safe, but those with impaired kidney function should consult a doctor before consuming ionised alkaline water with a very high pH.
Comparison of water types
| Feature | UK Tap Water (Unfiltered) | Filtered Tap Water | Bottled Mineral Water | Bottled Alkaline Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Very Low | Low (initial filter cost) | Very High | Very High |
| Safety | High (DWI regulated) | Very High (removes additional impurities) | High (less frequently tested than tap) | Generally safe, but can be artificially produced |
| Taste | Variable (region dependent, can taste of chlorine) | Improved, cleaner taste | Unique mineral flavour | Distinctive, smooth taste, can be ionised |
| Minerals | Variable (hard vs. soft water) | Variable (some filters remove, others add) | High, stable mineral composition | Higher pH and mineral content |
| Environmental Impact | Low (no plastic waste) | Low (less plastic waste) | High (significant plastic waste) | High (significant plastic waste) |
| Availability | Excellent (on tap) | Excellent (with filter) | High (supermarkets, shops) | High (supermarkets, online) |
How to choose the healthiest water for your nutrition diet
When considering your options, balance your needs for health, budget, and environmental impact. For the vast majority of people, the healthiest and most sensible choice is high-quality UK tap water, potentially with a good filter to improve the taste and remove specific impurities.
Here are some steps to help you decide:
- Check your water quality: Use the Drinking Water Inspectorate website or your local water company's reports to understand your area's water quality and hardness.
- Filter for taste and purity: If you dislike the taste of chlorine or are concerned about old plumbing, invest in a quality filter jug or under-sink system. This is the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to enjoy great-tasting water.
- Use bottled water sparingly: Reserve bottled water for convenience during travel or in emergencies. The high cost, environmental damage, and potential microplastic content make it a poor everyday choice.
- Consider specific needs: If you have specific health conditions, consult a healthcare professional. For instance, those concerned about reflux might consider natural alkaline water, though evidence is limited.
- Focus on hydration: Remember that the most crucial aspect of water for your health is simply drinking enough of it. Consistent hydration supports all bodily functions, regardless of the water's precise mineral profile.
Conclusion
While the UK offers a variety of water options, from mineral-rich bottled choices to high-tech filtration systems, the verdict for most people is clear. The healthiest, most cost-effective, and environmentally responsible choice is to filter your own safe and highly regulated UK tap water. Doing so removes any lingering chlorine taste and addresses concerns about trace impurities, providing a reliable and sustainable source of optimal hydration. To find your local water quality reports, visit the Drinking Water Inspectorate website at www.dwi.gov.uk.
