The Brands That Use Tap Water
Some of the most well-known brands that source their water from municipal supplies include:
- Aquafina (PepsiCo) – Derived from public water sources before undergoing purification.
- Dasani (Coca-Cola) – Uses local tap water, filtered using reverse osmosis.
- Nestlé Pure Life – Often comes from city water supplies and undergoes filtration.
- Glacéau Smartwater – Purified municipal water with added electrolytes.
- Kirkland Signature (Costco Brand) – Sourced from tap water and filtered before bottling.
How Do Bottled Water Companies Get Away With It?
The FDA regulates bottled water, but the requirements are not as stringent as those for public drinking water. This allows companies to label their products with terms like “purified water” or “distilled water” without explicitly stating that the source is municipal tap water. Many brands employ vague marketing strategies, showcasing scenic mountain springs or fresh glacier imagery to mislead consumers.
Is Bottled Water Better Than Tap Water?
In most cases, tap water is just as safe, if not safer, than bottled water. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates tap water more strictly than the FDA regulates bottled water. Municipal water suppliers must disclose their water quality reports, while bottled water companies are not required to disclose such details to consumers.
Additionally, bottled water can sometimes contain microplastics, which leach from plastic containers over time, posing potential health risks. Moreover, the environmental impact of plastic waste from bottled water consumption is devastating—billions of plastic bottles end up in landfills or oceans each year.
What Can Consumers Do?
If you want to save money and reduce plastic waste, consider these alternatives:
- Use a Water Filter – Invest in a high-quality water filter for your home to remove impurities from tap water.
- Reusable Bottles – Carry a reusable water bottle to avoid buying plastic bottled water.
- Check Water Reports – Look up your local water quality report to determine if your tap water needs additional filtration.
- Support Transparency – Advocate for clearer labeling and stricter regulations on bottled water brands.
Final Thoughts
Bottled water might seem like a convenient option, but it’s often nothing more than overpriced tap water in plastic packaging. By making informed choices, you can protect your health, save money, and help the environment. Next time you reach for that bottled water, consider filling up a glass from your own faucet—it might be just as good, if not better!
