June 30, 2008

Back to Tap Water? 

          Americans have embraced the concept of bottled water with a level of enthusiasm that is unparallel in other countries.  Which is a good thing as water is a fundamental part of human survival.  The water we drink literally becomes us.  In addition to aiding in digestion and absorption of food, water regulates body temperature and blood circulation, carries nutrients and oxygen to cells and removes toxins.  The water in our bodies cushions joints and protects tissues and organs from shock and damage. We can exist without water for only a few days. 

          Thirty years ago, bottled water barely existed as a business in the United States. Americans drink a billion bottles of water a week,  Last year, we spent more on bottled water – in all its brands and labels - on iPods or movie tickets--$15 billion. But is that bottled water better than tap water and worth the price? 

          The FDA classifies bottled water according to its origin.

Artesian well water. Water from a well that taps an aquifer--layers of porous rock, sand and earth that contain water--which is under pressure from surrounding upper layers of rock or clay. When tapped, the pressure in the aquifer, commonly called artesian pressure, pushes the water above the level of the aquifer, sometimes to the surface. Other means may be used to help bring the water to the surface.

Mineral water. Water from an underground source that contains at least 250 parts per million total dissolved solids. Minerals and trace elements must come from the source of the underground water. They cannot be added later.

Spring water. Derived from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the earth's surface. Spring water must be collected only at the spring or through a borehole tapping the underground formation feeding the spring. If some external force is used to collect the water through a borehole, the water must have the same composition and quality as the water that naturally flows to the surface.

Well water. Water from a hole bored or drilled into the ground, which taps into an aquifer.

Bottom of Form

          Whatever the source, bottled water’s biggest advantage is convenience. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets standards for tap water provided by public water systems. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets bottled water standards based on EPA’s tap water standards. Most bottled water is simply tap water put through conditioning filters to make it taste better.     

          How much water should you drink each day? Is a simple question with no easy answer. Just as you are unique, so are your water needs. And how much water you need depends on many factors, including your health status, how active you are and where you live.  One of the easiest to remember recommendations is the "8 x 8 rule" - drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

          The recent revived interest in the environment along with the rising cost of groceries and fuel, have lead may people back to an old standard – a thermos bottle.  Whether made of stainless steel, glass or heavy plastic, the sale of personal sized thermos bottles is picking up as people fill their own thermos with their own tap water.  Cheers to water and to those who are leading the new trend of personal water bottles.