Bottled water can be harmful to health and it is recommended to stop consuming it, according to a scientific study, presented by Sandra Campo on Infobae for Peru. This research by public health experts also examines the false perception of the taste and safety of bottled water compared to pipe water:
Currently, 1.4 billion liters of bottled water are consumed in Peru each year, and there are more than 5,000 registered bottling plants nationwide, so this industry is constantly growing. Among Peruvians, the habit of drinking bottled water has become more and more established due to the belief that it is a healthier and safer beverage than any other. While it is true that drinking water has several health benefits, a new scientific study conducted by public health experts warns that bottled water can be harmful not only to the planet, but also to human health. As a result, these researchers have recommended that we stop consuming bottled water.
Globally, there has been a widespread belief that consuming bottled water is a healthier and safer option, but in a recent study published in BMJ Global Health, researchers from Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar and New York Medical College present a comprehensive analysis that suggests the need to reconsider bottled water consumption due to its significant consequences for human health and the ecosystem. The experts say:
“Nearly 2 billion people around the world with limited or no access to safe drinking water rely on bottled water. For these people, the issue does not arise. But for the rest of us, it is largely a matter of convenience and an unshakable belief, supported by industrial marketing, that bottled water is safer and often healthier than tap water. This is not the case.”
Proof of this is that in countries like the United States, up to two-thirds of bottled water actually contains re-bottled tap water.
On the other hand, the impact on the environment is significant. Plastic bottles are the second most common pollutant in the oceans. In addition, their production process generates large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, while most of these bottles are not effectively recycled.
The study also examines misperceptions about the taste and safety of bottled water compared to tap water. Many people believe that bottled water tastes better, even though studies show that taste differences are often undetectable in blind tests.
When it comes to the safety of bottled water, one of the biggest challenges is plastic contamination. Research shows that plastic water bottles often contain microplastics and other chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), which can have negative effects such as oxidative stress and hormone disruption.
The researchers’ recommendation is strong: it is essential to reconsider the use of bottled water and encourage the consumption of tap water, especially in countries where it meets strict safety standards. The public needs to be educated about the health and environmental benefits of tap water. They also suggest that governments should invest in infrastructure to ensure universal access to safe drinking water and adopt policies that promote the use of tap water.
Alternatives in Lima
Considering that this study, published in September 2024, refers to countries such as the United States, where drinking water is clean and fit for consumption, one might wonder what alternatives to bottled water we have in the Peruvian capital.
First of all, it is necessary to clarify that it is not advisable to drink tap water in Lima, as stated by the official website of the Peruvian government, Gob.pe. Although the Lima Drinking Water and Sewage Service (Sedapal) claims that the drinking water system in the capital does not have any type of bacterial contamination, a person can become infected due to personal vulnerability or contamination in the water pipes of the house.
In contrast, boiled water is safe and available everywhere. Boiling water is healthy because it can kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and protozoa in water, and its health benefits include the following
- Kills pathogens: Boiling water can inactivate waterborne pathogens such as E. coli, Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Salmonella, Hepatitis, and Polio.
- Retains minerals: Boiling water retains minerals found in tap water.
- May aid digestion: Drinking hot water may aid digestion.
- May improve circulation: Drinking hot water may improve circulation.
However, boiling water may not remove all contaminants. Filtered water is a better choice because it can remove heavy metals and minerals.
