BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In the July issue of Water Technology, Technical Editor Dr. Joseph Cotruvo explores bottled water and its place in our society, including how it is perceived and used, in his monthly Professor POU/POE column.
Americans have increased consumption of bottled water over the years, largely because of media coverage of environmental and drinking water issues, notes Cotruvo. Taste preferences are also a reason for its rising popularity across the world. Although the U.S. drinking water supply is largely considered safe, many people still tout the health benefits of bottled water.
Many companies have realized large profits from bottled water sales, states Cotruvo. The industry made $12.3 billion in 2013 in the U.S. Worldwide, more than 70.4 billion gallons of the product were sold. While the average cost is about $1.23 per gallon, retail costs exceed that number.
Cotruvo discusses the different types of bottled water, including sparkling bottled water, mineral water, natural water, spring water and well water, as defined by the International Bottled Water Association. Each type discloses its source.
The bottled water industry has come under fire over the years when some bottles tested positively for high amount of contaminants, including arsenic, shares Cotruvo. A few agencies have established standards for bottled and mineral waters, and bottled water is not generally considered a health concern.
You can find the entire article here.