Activate WarrantyWhy Tap Water is Safer Than Bottled Water: Understanding the Regulations
Many people believe bottled water is safer than tap water, but this is a misconception. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates tap water, enforcing strict standards to ensure safety. In contrast, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees bottled water, classifying it as a prepackaged food item with less stringent regulations.
The Truth About Bottled Water Regulations
Unlike tap water, bottled water is not subject to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This lack of regulation means contaminants from the plastic bottles can seep into the water, posing health risks. Research by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) revealed that up to 64% of bottled water is actually repackaged tap water, potentially with fewer safety checks.1 Additional findings indicate that a significant portion of bottled water may contain contaminants such as synthetic chemicals, bacteria, and heavy metals at levels above state health limits.2
The HALO Solution
HALO Water Systems offers superior alternatives to bottled water. The HALO 5 Whole House Water Filtration System eliminates the need for bottled water by providing clean, safe water from every tap in your home. Additionally, the under-counter Ultra Plus RO system can produce 50 gallons of purified water daily, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality water. The Hydro Point system filters water at the point of access, removing cysts and viruses, making it ideal for locations where whole-house filtration isn’t possible.
Backed by Research
The EPA’s stringent regulations for tap water include regular testing for contaminants, public reporting of violations, and treatment requirements to reduce harmful substances3. In contrast, the FDA’s oversight of bottled water does not mandate such rigorous testing or public reporting, which can lead to significant variations in water quality. The EPA requires public water systems to test for bacteria several times a day, and large city water systems must test for coliform bacteria over 100 times a month. The EPA also sets legal limits on over 90 contaminants in drinking water, including pathogens, disinfectants, and chemicals.
On the other hand, the FDA regulates bottled water as a packaged food product, and its standards are generally less stringent5. Up to 70% of bottled water is exempt from FDA standards because it is bottled and sold within the same state, bypassing federal oversight4
Overall, choosing HALO Water Systems over bottled water not only ensures safer drinking water but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste. By understanding the differences in water regulation and opting for reliable filtration systems like HALO, you can protect your health and the environment.
Sources
2: https://www.nrdc.org/resources/bottled-water-pure-drink-or-pure-hype
