The Tap Water Connection: A Closer Look at "Purified" Water
When a bottle of water is labeled "purified," understanding its source is important. Unlike "spring water," which comes from natural underground sources, purified water can come from any source, including municipal water supplies. The water then undergoes a multi-step mechanical filtration process to remove impurities before being bottled. This practice is common among some of the largest water bottlers globally.
Major companies like PepsiCo (Aquafina) and Coca-Cola (Dasani) have publicly stated that their purified water products are sourced from municipal water. The water undergoes extensive purification methods, such as reverse osmosis, to create a consistently clean and neutral taste. While this does not mean the water is unsafe—municipal tap water in most developed countries is already safe to drink—it does mean consumers pay a premium for a product sourced from the same origin as their home faucet.
How Purification Changes Tap Water
The process of transforming municipal water into "purified" bottled water is thorough. Brands like Aquafina use a process called HydRO-7, which includes seven steps of purification. These advanced techniques, such as reverse osmosis, distillation, and deionization, remove virtually all dissolved solids, including both impurities and naturally occurring minerals.
After intensive purification, many brands reintroduce a precise blend of minerals or electrolytes to achieve a consistent taste profile. This is why purified bottled water, regardless of the region, typically tastes the same, while tap water taste can vary depending on the local water source. The bottled water then goes through final steps like ultraviolet or ozone sterilization to ensure microbiological safety before bottling.
Brands That Use Tap Water: A List
Several prominent brands have confirmed that municipal tap water is the primary source for their purified products. This is not a comprehensive list, as some companies use a combination of sources, but these are widely recognized examples:
- Aquafina: Owned by PepsiCo, Aquafina's website confirms its purified water is sourced from public water and undergoes extensive purification.
- Dasani: A Coca-Cola brand, Dasani is famously sourced from municipal water supplies and uses reverse osmosis before bottling.
- Nestlé Pure Life: While Nestlé has historically used both municipal and well sources, their purified water products often utilize public sources and are treated rigorously.
- Lifewtr: This bottled water brand, also a PepsiCo product, is sourced from municipal water supplies and uses reverse osmosis for purification.
- Propel: Owned by Gatorade, Propel is sourced from tap water but contains added electrolytes and vitamins.
- Essentia: This brand uses tap water, purifies it, and then adds electrolytes for taste and hydration.
Purified vs. Spring Water: A Comparison
The main difference between purified and spring water is not necessarily quality, but origin and processing. Here is a table comparing the two:
| Feature | Purified Water | Spring Water |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Municipal tap water or groundwater | Underground aquifer that flows to the surface |
| Processing | Intensive, using reverse osmosis, distillation, and deionization | Minimal, often just filtered and disinfected with ozone |
| Mineral Content | Minerals are stripped away and often added back for flavor | Contains naturally occurring minerals from the source |
| Taste | Consistent, neutral taste due to processing and added minerals | Taste can vary based on the mineral composition of the source |
| Cost | Often sold at a high markup for the purification process and convenience | Typically more expensive than purified water due to natural source |
The Controversy Behind Bottled Tap Water
The practice of bottling and selling purified municipal water has led to significant controversy. Ethically, many find it misleading for companies to market an image of purity and natural sourcing when the water comes from the same public system accessible to all. The cost difference between tap water and bottled, purified water is also a point of contention for consumers.
Environmentally, the bottled water industry is scrutinized for its reliance on plastic bottles, most of which are not recycled, and the fossil fuels needed for transportation. Some companies face criticism for extracting large water volumes from municipal or natural sources in drought-stricken regions.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
Whether a consumer chooses purified bottled water or tap water is a personal decision based on factors like taste, perceived purity, and cost. While brands like Dasani and Aquafina are processed from tap water, the filtration ensures a safe, consistent product. Municipal tap water's safety is heavily regulated, and it is a more economical and environmentally friendly choice, especially when used with a home filtration system. Consumers should be aware of a brand's sourcing to make an informed decision.
For information on bottled water safety and regulation, the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is a valuable resource, detailing the differences between purified and tap water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is purified bottled water healthier than tap water?
In most developed countries, municipal tap water is safe to drink. Purified bottled water undergoes additional processing to remove chemicals and impurities, but it's not necessarily healthier and often lacks beneficial natural minerals found in spring or mineral waters.
How can I tell if a brand's water is from a tap water source?
Look for labels that state "purified water" or mention reverse osmosis. Brands will often specify their source on the bottle or their website. If the source is listed as "municipal water supply" or "public water source," it is sourced from tap water.
Is it safe to drink bottled water made from tap water?
Yes, purified bottled water is generally safe to drink. The water undergoes intensive filtration processes to remove contaminants, making it safe for consumption.
Is bottled water more regulated than tap water?
Tap water is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), while bottled water is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Some studies suggest tap water is subjected to more frequent testing, though both must meet safety standards.
Why do purified bottled waters sometimes taste different from my tap water?
Purified water brands, such as Dasani, strip the water of virtually all dissolved solids and minerals, and then add a specific blend back to achieve a consistent, signature taste. The taste of tap water is determined by the local municipal source and plumbing.
Why do companies bottle municipal water instead of natural spring water?
Sourcing from municipal supplies offers greater control over the water's consistency and allows for local bottling, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact compared to shipping spring water. It is also often more readily available.
What is the difference between purified water and spring water?
Purified water starts from any source (often municipal) and is heavily processed. Spring water is sourced from an underground aquifer and has minimal treatment, retaining its natural mineral composition.
Is buying bottled tap water a waste of money?
Given that municipal tap water is often safe and costs a fraction of the price, many consumers view paying a premium for bottled tap water as unnecessary. The choice depends on personal preferences regarding taste, convenience, and perceived purity.
