Contrary to popular belief, fancy labels, packaging and branding do not always imply you are consuming pure refreshing water from bottled water. This is not the case with many mineral water brands and studies have shown arsenic is the largest contaminant for most brands.
Instead of buying wasteful plastic bottles with potentially unsafe water, check out these reverse osmosis water systems and enjoy crystal clear water from your tap everyday!
Our Pick for the Best Reverse Osmosis Systems
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
Why Trust Waterful.org?
Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .
Bottled water is one product that almost all of us take for granted, thinking that it is safe for us to drink. After all, there are several regulatory bodies in the country responsible for monitoring food and water safety. Therefore, it is only natural to assume that corporations would take full responsibility for the safety of the drinking water products that they are supplying. It is unthinkable to imagine that major corporations would be selling contaminated, dangerous and polluted water to the public. Unfortunately, this is exactly what is happening.
Considering the prevalence of arsenic in water supplies and the danger that it poses, concerned citizens often wonder: “does bottled water have arsenic?” The answer will surprise you.
Arsenic in Bottled Water
The Center for Environmental Health carried out tests on the Penafiel and Starkey mineral water brands to find out that they have unsafe levels of arsenic in water. Starkey is owned by Whole Foods, while Penafiel is owned by Keurig Dr Pepper. What’s most troubling is that these are mineral water products from some of the leading consumer brands sold by retailers throughout the country, including Walmart.
You wouldn’t imagine that major mineral water brands are selling contaminated bottled water but this is precisely the case, unfortunately. And this is not happening for the first time. These offenders are the very same brands that were caught selling arsenic-contaminated water back in the past as well. If you think that this made them clean up their act, then you are wrong. They are at it again, which reflects their complete disregard for your personal safety and health.
According to a Consumer Reports investigation, Penafiel water bottles had arsenic concentrations of 18 parts per billion, which is above the EPA standard of 10 parts per billion.
High arsenic levels of 22 parts per billion in Penafiel were found way back in 2009. The FDA also issued two warnings, in 2015 and 2018 about unacceptably high arsenic levels. From the records that it has obtained, Consumer Reports states the FDA was aware of the arsenic problem in Penafiel since 2013.
In the wake of the Consumer Reports expose, Keurig Dr Pepper conceded that its testing shows an arsenic concentration of 17 parts per billion.
Starkey, on the other hand, was found to have arsenic concentrations of 11.7 parts per billion when it was tested by Florida regulators.
Should you be buying from brands that have no qualms about selling poisoned bottled water claiming that it is ‘pure’? Or should you protect your health as well as the health of your family by taking control of your drinking water – the most essential necessity of life?
But first, you must learn all the facts pertaining to arsenic, one of the most common pollutants in drinking water.
Facts About Arsenic
Is arsenic a metal?
Arsenic is described as a metalloid, that is, it is a semi-metal. In other words, it has the main properties of both metals and non-metals.
Where is arsenic found?
Arsenic poses a danger to health because unsafe levels of this toxic element may be found in air, food and water. The water supply is by far the biggest source of arsenic pollution. Certain places carry a higher risk of arsenic contamination.
Arsenic is so dangerous that regulatory bodies have had to revise the toxic threshold to much lower levels. The Environmental Protection Agency revised the arsenic standard in 2001. The new maximum limit is now 10 parts per billion compared to the previous standard of 50 parts per billion.
There are several places in the US where well water has higher levels of arsenic than what the EPA deems safe. In places like Nevada, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, California, Michigan, Maine and New Hampshire, 20 percent of the well water has arsenic above the EPA standard. (Source)
Arsenic poisoning is associated with higher rates of heart disease as well as lung, bladder and skin cancers. Acute doses of arsenic can cause immediate poisoning symptoms and even death. (Source)
The World Health Organization on Arsenic
Arsenic is on the top 10 list of chemicals that are a major public health concern in the view of the World Health Organization. The WHO recommends that arsenic in drinking water should be no more than 10 micrograms per liter, however, possible steps should be taken to keep arsenic as low as possible. In the “Guidelines for drinking water quality”, the WHO has outlined measures for reducing arsenic in water.
The WHO states that arsenic is not just a carcinogen, but it is one of the most dangerous chemicals to be found in drinking water supplies across the world. The most dangerous forms of arsenic are inorganic compounds. Unfortunately, these inorganic forms of arsenic are found in drinking water supplies across the world, including the US.
The acute effects of arsenic poisoning include diarrhea, abdominal pain and vomiting. Higher doses of arsenic can cause muscle cramping, tingling of the extremities, numbness and eventually death.
The long-term effects of arsenic include myocardial infarction, kidney diseases, pulmonary disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases. It is also associated with heightened infant mortality and birth defects. Arsenic has several adverse consequences for mental health, including impaired memory, intelligence and cognitive development. (Source)
How to Remove Arsenic from Drinking Water?
In order to keep arsenic as well as other harmful contaminants out of your drinking water, you should use reverse osmosis filtration systems for purifying water.
The CDC recommends reverse osmosis systems for removing arsenic from drinking water. Ion exchange, distillation and ultra-filtration can also help in the removal of arsenic.
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
Why Does My Water Taste Sweet?
Two of the most important factors that usually make water taste sweet are alkalinity and pH. These factors are usually not taken into account and are also difficult to pinpoint. However, these are usually the main culprits behind sweet tasting water.
Fix your sweet tasting tap water problems with a Reverse Osmosis water system that will remove all the contaminants and then precisely set the pH and alkalinity for the perfect tasting water.
Our Pick for the Best Reverse Osmosis Systems
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
Why Trust Waterful.org?
Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .
Why Does Water Taste Sweet?
Two of the most important factors that usually make water taste sweet are alkalinity and pH. These factors are usually not taken into account and are also difficult to pinpoint. However, these are usually the main culprits behind sweet tasting water.
Sweet water may not taste that bad. However, there is an imbalance of alkalinity, pH, or minerals in it that gives it a taste profile that not many of us like. If your tap water is giving off a sweet taste or an aftertaste, it is usually because of one of the following reasons:
There is a high concentration of iron, calcium, or minerals in water which makes it taste a little off. Most of the time, it is iron in the water responsible for its sweet taste.
Plumbing issues can also create taste-related issues in tap water. Since tap water reaches you after passing through different pipes and holes, any materials leaching into the water as it makes its way through the pipes can make it taste bad. Only a specialist plumbing company can help you figure out where the problem lies.
The water you drink sometimes may also taste sweet because of your own body. There are people with highly sensitive taste receptors. Even if there’s just a little bit of difference in the composition of water, it will be evident to them while others may drink it without complaining. They can taste particles in water that most of the other people cannot taste. Thus, they often complain of water tasting sweet.
Another reason for water tasting sweet is high alkalinity. Water has an alkaline nature which is needed to neutralize acids. The level of alkalinity is determined by the soil and bedrock the water comes from. Sometimes, high alkaline levels of water make it too bland. Some people refer to this blandness as a sweet taste.
High pH of water can also make it taste sweet. While low pH levels make the water acidic and bitter-tasting. If the pH levels are too low, it can make water taste like baking soda! This gives off a sweet taste to it that many people complain about.
The taste of the food we eat and the liquids we drink is also affected by its smell. We can detect even small variances in the smell of whatever we eat or drink. Our brain sometimes tricks us into perceiving the taste of these things. If the smell of the water we drink seems a little off, we will naturally not want to drink that water.
What’s the Solution?
Now that we know that reasons that might be causing your water to taste sweet, it brings us to the big question: how can I prevent my tap water from tasting sweet?
The easiest and the most effective solution to this problem is installing a reverse osmosis filtration system. The tap water we have in our houses in hard. This hardness is caused by a varying combination and concentration of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. A reverse osmosis filter system can help reduce the hardness of water and hence helps reduce the sweetness that you can taste otherwise.
RO filter systems use a semi-permeable membrane that rids the water of all the impurities. As a result, you only get pure water that does not taste like metal, chlorine, or gives off a sweet taste. Simply put, it makes bad water in your taps pure and safe for drinking. The water becomes tasteless, which is what it should be in the first place.
A good reverse osmosis filter system will purify the water of contaminants such as sodium, copper, nitrates, arsenic, and other organic molecules. The levels of iron, calcium, and other minerals in water are also controlled. This will give you healthy and tasteless water.
In addition to a reverse osmosis filtration system, you can also try activated charcoal filtration and aeration. It will also improve the quality of water. Furthermore, experts suggest that you should go for chlorination of water every 3-4 months to ensure that the pH levels are suitable for drinking.
If water still tastes sweet after all these things, then it may be because of certain medical conditions that you should check for. The most common among these are:
- Diabetes
- Infections
- Ketoacidosis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Low carb dieting
- Medications
- Pregnancy
You can check with your doctor if you are concerned.
Final Words
The water you drink should not have any taste. It should also be odorless and colorless. If you are constantly getting a sweet taste in your tap water, then you should consider installing a reverse osmosis filtration system in your house. Make sure you only consider calling in the experts for a reverse osmosis filtration system. It is a one-time investment that will make your tap water safe for drinking.
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
Why Does My Water Taste Like Metal?
The issue of a metallic taste in water is common in old homes that have iron pipes in their plumbing system. Iron pipes can contribute to your water’s metallic taste. However, even the tap water in many new homes gives off a subtle metallic taste and smell. This is because of various contaminants present in tap water.
Make sure your tap water doesn’t have unwanted metallic pollutants, especially the ones you can’t taste, with these best reviewed reverse osmosis water filters.
Our Pick for the Best Reverse Osmosis Systems
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
Why Trust Waterful.org?
Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .
Does the water you drink give off a metallic taste?
What causes this metallic taste in water? And Is there anything you can do about it?
If the water you drink has a metallic taste to it, then you should investigate the probable causes behind it. Once you’re able to determine what is causing this, you can find the appropriate solutions to remove the metal water taste. It will ensure that the water you drink is not only tasteless but also healthy.
However, before we move on to the solutions to this problem, let’s talk about the probable causes of water tasting like metal.
Reasons for Metallic Taste in Water
Metallic Taste from Traces of Metal in Water
The most common reason for water giving off a metallic taste is because there are actually traces of metal in water. The water delivered to our home contains traces of metals such as copper, iron, manganese, and zinc. The presence of high amounts of these metals can make your water taste and smell metallic.
Metallic Taste from Old Home Pipes
The tap water in old homes usually gives off a metallic taste. This is because the pipes used in plumbing are old and worn out. The taste could be from these old pipes. It is usually iron from these pipes that gives a metallic taste to water. Make sure that you get the pipes in your home checked. Pipes made using lead can lead to water contamination that can cause serious health issues.
Metallic Taste from poor pH Balance
Another probable cause of water tasting like metal is a lower pH balance. pH levels of water determine its acidic or alkaline nature. Hard water has high pH levels while soft water has low levels of pH balance. Low pH levels give water an acidic or sour taste. Many people find this taste to be the same as that of metals.
The ideal pH level of drinking water should be between 6.5 and 8.5. Anything above or below it means that the water will have some kind of taste to it. It will either taste too sweet or too metallic. It is important to check the pH level of your drinking water especially if it is giving a metallic taste. Too many contaminants in water can lead to serious health issues.
Metallic Taste from Seepage or Corrosion
If the water comes to your taps from a well, then the most probable reason for metallic taste is corrosion or seepage. Seepage is a common issue in wells which causes additional minerals from the soil to be added to the water content.
Water already high in mineral content gets additional metals and minerals from the soil and the result is a metallic taste in water. Corrosion of water pipes is also another reason of water tasting like metal.
How Can I Remove Metallic Taste from My Water?
Now comes the big question,
What can be done to remove the metallic taste from water?
The best option to remove the metallic taste from water is to change your water pipes. This is especially true if the pipes are made from lead, as it’s a very harmful element. Changing all the water pipes in your house is not an easy task. It takes a lot of time, effort, and money. Therefore, not many people consider it.
The best and the most economically feasible option to remove the metal taste from water is to get a reverse osmosis water filter plant. If the water in your house gives off a metallic taste but is otherwise healthy to drink, then using a good water filter can resolve the issue.
Reverse osmosis water filter systems contain metal water purifier which will perfectly do the job. It will remove the taste of metal by filtering the water from all kinds of impurities. Reverse osmosis filter systems are the most effective filters when it comes to removing the taste of metal from water.
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
If you are too bothered by the taste of metal in water, then get a high-quality reverse osmosis water filter installed in your home. It will improve the taste and content of tap water and make it suitable for drinking. A good reverse osmosis filter will also rid the water of different contaminants. This includes heavy metals like lead.
If you live in an old house, then it is best to get your water content levels checked from a credible source. Too much lead content in water can cause lead contamination which can be a precursor to many health issues. This is especially important if the metallic taste in water only comes from certain taps in the house.
Improve Your Drinking Water
There are easy solutions like installing a reverse osmosis water filter system at your house and you will be able to enjoy refreshing water again. Switching to bottled water is another solution you can look into but it is costlier.
A reverse osmosis water filtration system is a great investment and will give you refreshing drinking water for many years. If you are thinking of getting one, make sure you only install one from a reputable company. Also, you should only get a water filtration system installed by experts. This will ensure its best results.
Should You Drink Purified Water Before Bed?
Purified water is the healthiest drink we can offer our bodies. It is crucial for all body functions and makes all our organs work well and to do that we must stay hydrated, not just during the day but also while sleeping.
But make sure it’s not just any water you are drinking, ensure your body is staying healthy by drinking only the cleanest purified water (which doesn’t mean bottled water because that can be even worse!)
Our Pick for the Best Purified Water Filters
Removes up to 99-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds healthy minerals back
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
NSF-Certified, EPA approved
Requires basic plumbing tools like wrenches and teflon tape
Light-weight, portable, and easily moved around the counter top
Removes viruses, protozoa, TMHs, drugs and other chemicals
Safe to use, durable and long lasting
The system has been tested countless times to produce brilliant results
Needs to be broken in properly to ensure filtering correctly
Filters an astounding one million gallon of water and is expected to last a decade
The UV filter protects against viruses and bacteria from festering and growing
Multiple filtration systems provide your whole house with clean water for all needs
Easy to install and easy to function
More expensive than smaller systems but lasts much longer
May need professional assistance depending on current plumbing system
Long lasting and durable, this system can pump around 3,000 gallons of water
No cumbersome maintenance required
Filters out heavy chemicals, metals and chlorine compounds with its 4-filtration systems
One of the cheapest water filtration systems for homes and offices
May run into minor leaking issues
Easy installation unless your fridge is over 20 years old
Why Trust Waterful.org?
Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .
Water is the healthiest drink we can offer our bodies. It is crucial for all body functions and makes all our organs work well. Just like a car needs oil, our body needs the right amount of water to survive. Yet, not many of us are careful about our water intake. We don’t drink enough water which makes our health and body suffer.
Many people think that they only have to drink water when they feel thirsty, but that’s not the case. You need to hydrate your body throughout the day to prevent yourself from succumbing to many health issues and serious illnesses.
Just like we need to keep our bodies hydrated during the day, it is also important to stay hydrated during the night. Most of us follow a bedtime routine where we would brush our teeth, take a shower, and change into our sleeping suits. But how many of us would reach for a glass of water as well?
Here are some reasons that can convince you to drink water before bed.
Purified Water Helps You Sleep Better
You will notice an improvement in your sleep pattern if you drink a glass of cold water before going to bed. It is found that drinking cold water before going to sleep regulates your hormone levels. It also gives the body a good amount of nutrients and minerals. Drinking water before bed helps relax your joints and muscles.
Therefore, make it a habit to drink a glass of cold water before bed and you will notice an improvement in your sleep. You will not only be able to sleep better but will also feel fresh and energetic each morning.
Purified Water Keeps Your Body Well Hydrated
One of the main reasons for drinking water before bed is that it keeps your body hydrated. Staying hydrated, especially during summer, is very important. Water is the fuel for our body and we need it to function properly.
Therefore, experts suggest that you should make it a habit to drink water at night. It will prevent you from waking up dehydrated. You will also notice a positive difference in your health and overall wellbeing if you drink water before bed.
Purified Water Cleanses Your Body
Drinking water before bed also detoxifies and cleanses your body. It is found to improve digestion and increase blood circulation. Drinking water helps break down waste in your body which leads to sweating. This cleanses your skin cells and helps prevent many skin-related issues.
It also helps your body get rid of excess salt that can cause many health issues.
Purified Water Helps Burn Calories
If you are having a hard time losing that extra weight, then start drinking a glass of cold water before bed. This will make your body burn more calories while you sleep. Drinking cold water will make your body work a little harder to warm it up. This will help burn the calories that you’ve consumed during the day.
Of course, you need to combine this healthy habit with a healthy lifestyle as well.
Purified Water Helps Improve Your Mood
You may not have noticed but keeping your body well hydrated also helps improve your mood. Fluid loss and dehydration can result in excessive anxiety, headaches, fatigue, lack of concentration, and motivation. All of this leads to mood changes that become difficult to handle over time.
Therefore, you must drink enough water to improve your mental health as well. Don’t make your body go on without water for too long as it not only affects your physical health but also mental wellbeing.
Purified Water Prevents Headaches
Drinking enough water during the day and some of it before bed also reduces the instances of tension headaches. Our body systems need water to keep functioning at their optimal level. Our brain also works better when we are hydrated.
If you have frequent episodes of migraine and tension headaches, then improve your water intake. It can make a lot of difference in your health and will help prevent regular headaches.
Purified Water Improves Your Skin
If you have been trying hard to improve your skin health, then add a glass of lemon water before bed to your routine. Drinking lemon water is great for your skin. Having it before bed will help detoxify and cleanse your skin. It will help you get rid of impurities that seep into your skin cells during the day.
It also helps improve digestion and kidney function. You will urinate more which will rid your body of impurities and waste. Make drinking lemon water before bed a habit and see noticeable results in your skin health in just a few days.
Be Careful!
While drinking water before bed is generally safe for our health, some people might be negatively affected by it. Drinking too much water before bed will make you wake up too many times to pee at night. This can interfere with your sleep pattern and can lead to sleep deprivation and fatigue in the morning.
People with heart diseases and diabetes need their sleep. Getting up too many times during the night can have adverse effects on their health. While drinking water before bed is a healthy habit, make sure that you drink clean water.
Removes up to 99-percent of chemicals, heavy metals, sediment, and other contaminants then adds healthy minerals back
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
NSF-Certified, EPA approved
Requires basic plumbing tools like wrenches and teflon tape
Light-weight, portable, and easily moved around the counter top
Removes viruses, protozoa, TMHs, drugs and other chemicals
Safe to use, durable and long lasting
The system has been tested countless times to produce brilliant results
Needs to be broken in properly to ensure filtering correctly
Filters an astounding one million gallon of water and is expected to last a decade
The UV filter protects against viruses and bacteria from festering and growing
Multiple filtration systems provide your whole house with clean water for all needs
Easy to install and easy to function
More expensive than smaller systems but lasts much longer
May need professional assistance depending on current plumbing system
Long lasting and durable, this system can pump around 3,000 gallons of water
No cumbersome maintenance required
Filters out heavy chemicals, metals and chlorine compounds with its 4-filtration systems
One of the cheapest water filtration systems for homes and offices
May run into minor leaking issues
Easy installation unless your fridge is over 20 years old
Is There Lead In Bottled Water?
Even though many companies claim that bottled water is pure from contaminants, it is not. In fact, bottled water can have many contaminants, including lead.
Instead of buying wasteful plastic bottles with potentially unsafe water, check out these reverse osmosis water systems and enjoy crystal clear water from your tap everyday!
Our Pick for the Best Reverse Osmosis Systems
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
Why Trust Waterful.org?
Our water scientists and engineers spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers .
Ever since water dispensers have gained popularity, mineral water has become a key component of our daily lives and tap water has become a thing of the past. All of us tend to take bottled water for granted and consider it completely safe for consumption. Maybe our ignorance is a product of the compelling advertising that companies invest in. Even though many companies claim that bottled water is pure from contaminants, it is not. In fact, bottled water can have many contaminants, including lead.
That’s right, one of the pollutants found in bottled water is lead. The idea of lead water pollution seems farfetched, but it is not. Lead can make its way into drinking water through many sources. If the idea of lead in water surprises you, you aren’t alone. Don’t worry, though, for in the upcoming paragraphs, we will discuss lead water pollution and whether bottled water contains lead.
Does Bottled Water Have Lead?
Yes, bottled water can have lead. Lead water pollution is a serious threat. Furthermore, lead-infused water can be as bad as poisoned bottled water in the long run. It is scary how this colorless, odorless and tasteless metal can go unnoticed and enter our systems, making us ill.
Lead can have serious consequences on your health. In the case of adults, lead can lead to stroke, cancer, and heart problems. In fact, some people even say that the decline of the Roman Empire occurred because of lead poisoning, which mainly occurred because water passed through lead pipes.
Some health experts deduce that lead is more dangerous for children than for adults. A child’s body can absorb lead more quickly. In children, lead can lead to premature deaths, behavioral disorders, reduced mental activity and lower IQ.
According to the EPA, lead is one of the most detrimental things to a child’s health in the United States. A majority of lead toxicologists are of the opinion that the lead standard for children’s drinking water needs to be far more stringent than the ones for adults.
Where Is Lead Found in Drinking Water?
Lead is found in most parts of the environment— in the air, soil, water and even in our homes. Most people wonder where the lead content in mineral water comes from. It sounds strange, but bottled water is just like normal water, and it goes through multiple stages before it is packaged. There are several sources from which water receives its lead content. The most common sources of lead in water are lead fixtures, faucets and pipes. When the plumbing materials containing lead corrode, they can contaminate the water and affect your health negatively.
In studies conducted by the EPA, it has been found that more than 40 million American households drink water that contains more lead than what is recommended. Surveys have shown that more than 20% of the water supplies like springs in Pennsylvania have high levels of lead. The high levels of lead in this water increases acidity, while minimizing the levels of calcium carbonate. Water that has a Ph level of less than seven tends to corrode.
If you work in a water bottling factory, the water standing near your plumbing will be the first to come through your tap. Researchers suggest that a water faucet should be left open for at least 45 minutes, before water is extracted. As the water is allowed to run, the level of lead tends to decrease. If the water supply lines are made of up pure lead, leaded solder or brass fixtures, even the cleanest water will collect a sufficient amount of lead. If the weather is hot and humid, the lead corrosion process will quicken.
Recent studies suggest that a new contributor to lead contamination in water is chloramine, which is being used in place of chlorine for disinfection purposes. Chloramine is the combination of chlorine and ammonia, which is said to increase the amount of lead in bottled water.
Now that you know the answers to, “where is lead found ?” and “how it enters drinking water?” let’s discuss some alternatives.
Alternatives to Bottled Water
Since you aren’t there when mineral water is packaged in the factories, you can’t vouch for its credibility. According to the CDC, cold tap water should be used for drinking purposes and for mixing infant formulas. According to the EPA, houses with pregnant women should use bottled water, only if the tap water has a lead concentration of 15 parts per billion of water. If you flush tap water for a long time and the lead remains, you should invest in water filtration systems. The water filtration system that you invest in should carry a seal issued by the National Sanitation Foundation.
Lead Regulations for Bottled Water
Just like any other packaged product, the bottled water available in the marketplace is also regulated by the FDA. Instead of adhering to EPA’s 15 ppb lead action level for bottled water, the FDA went with 5 ppb. Furthermore, the FDA prohibits manufacturers from using all forms of food contact materials, including particular pipes, fittings, tanks, pumps, containers and closures, that might contaminate water.
In the year 1996, an amendment was made in the Food, Drugs and Cosmetic Act. The purpose for this amendment was to ensure that the FDA regulations were as considerate of human health as those described by the EPA.
Lead in Bottled Water Conclusions
To answer your question, “does bottled water have lead?” yes, substandard mineral water has lead in it. Lead in water is a great health hazard, especially for children and senior individuals for their immunity is lower. When shopping for bottled water, make sure you go for the most reputable brands, which are approved by the authorities rather than obscure bottlers that no one can testify against. Plus, remember that it is always a good idea to use filtration systems to get rid of contaminants from water.
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
Why Is My Water Yellow?
You fill a glass of water to drink and you notice that the tap water is not colorless! It has a weird yellow tinge to it! The water may not smell or taste bad. However, is it safe to drink yellow colored water?
The best and the most effective way to get rid of yellow color in tap water is to install a reverse osmosis water filtration system. Here are our highest rated RO systems
Our Pick for the Best Reverse Osmosis Systems
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems
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Water has three basic properties: it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. There is a cause of concern if any of these properties are jeopardized. The tap water in your house may not be safe to drink if it is giving off a yellowish hue. It is easy to spot a change in the characteristics of water if it’s coming out to be tinted. Yellow water certainly raises some questions. Let’s find out what may be causing water to be of rusty color and how can it be fixed.
Reasons for Yellow Colored Tap Water
If the water comes to your home from a public municipal supplier, then here are the reasons it is giving off a yellow tint.
Waterlines Under Repair May Cause Yellow Water
Water distribution systems need maintenance and repair now and then. The yellow color you are getting in your tap water maybe because of these utility repairs or maintenance working going on. Rust and other impurities can enter the water supply system when maintenance work is underway.
If you are experiencing yellow colored water, make sure that you inform the authorities so they are notified of the issue and take measures accordingly. If yellow colored water is due to maintenance work, then this issue should resolve by itself in some time.
Water Mains Being Flushed Can Cause Yellow Water
Another reason why you are getting yellow water in your tap is that the waterlines in your area are being flushed. Waterlines get stagnant areas from time to time. The water suppliers increase the water level in the lines so that the increased water pressure can flush out the blockages.
Water mains and your pipes are both flushed. Rust in these pipes often tends to loosen when the system is being flushed. The yellow tint you are noticing in your tap water maybe because of this flushing exercise. You will notice a temporary change in your water. There may also be cloudy tap water or rusty colored water.
A great way to check if the yellow color of the water is due to flushing is to open the hot water tap and check the watercolor. If only your cold water is tinted, then it is most likely due to flushing.
Flushing and repair work in waterlines is temporary. The color of water should be back to normal soon. Call the local authorities to confirm if there is any work going on the waterlines. If not, then you will need to take measures to resolve this issue.
Reasons for Yellow Well Water
If your source of water is a well, and the water seems to be giving off a yellow tint, then it may be because of the following reasons:
Water Containing Bacteria May Cause Yellow Well Water
Water coming from a well contains some bacteria. One of the most common forms of bacteria present in water and soil is iron bacteria. They don’t cause any health issues but can make your water look yellow. This is caused when manganese and iron combine with oxygen. The result is a slimy buildup which when mixed in water makes it yellow.
While there may not be any health repercussions of drinking this yellow colored water but it definitely won’t feel nice. You should get your well water checked and tested every couple of years to ensure that there is no buildup of any such bacteria.
Water Containing Organic Materials May Cause Yellow Water
Another common cause of water coloration is the presence of excessive organic materials. Tannins are a byproduct of the natural fermentation process. They pass to the well water through decaying vegetation and peaty soil. Again, these compounds don’t contain any health risk but no one likes to drink yellow colored water.
Water with Excess Manganese and Iron May Cause Yellow Water
Groundwater supplies contain manganese and iron. These are essential minerals that are required by our bodies to remain healthy. Thus, an abundance of these may not pose any health risk but gives your water a less than desirable color.
The reason your tap water coming from the well is yellow tinted is that iron and manganese have combined with some organic matter and have formed a compound called colloidal. Removing colloidal is difficult but the water can be treated to get rid of the yellow color.
How to Fix Yellow Water?
Now that you know the probable causes of yellow tap water, it is time to find out how to resolve the issue. The best and the most effective way to get rid of yellow color in tap water is to install a reverse osmosis water filtration system.
The reverse osmosis filtration system forces contaminated to pass through a membrane. It is a very fine filter that prevents any impurities from passing through the tap. Only the filtered water passes through the membrane and the impurities are left behind. This makes your tap water colorless and perfect to drink.
If you are facing the issue of yellow-colored tap water, then it is best to get a reverse osmosis filtration system installed in your house. It will keep the tap water coming from a municipal source or a well safe for drinking. The water will be refreshing and will keep you fit and healthy. It is important to get your reverse osmosis systems installed from experts only. It should be of high quality and you must change the filters often.
These little things will keep your reverse osmosis water filtration system working at its optimal condition for a long time. It is a great investment to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy. Get in touch with us to know more.
Removes solids smaller than 1 micron to purify drinking water
Introduces calcium, potassium and magnesium into purified water to remineralise it
Reduces over 74 contaminants, metals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
Targets chlorine and ammonia via carbon filtration
Tank needs to be maintained and kept clean
Modular all-in-one filter design for easy maintenance
Comes with a complete DIY-friendly installation kit
EPA approved and certified by leading drinking water environmental groups
More expensive than most systems