Bottled Water: Setting Pollution Standards For Purity

Bottled water is a global commodity, with sales soaring in recent decades due to concerns about tap water quality and effective marketing. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the quality of public water, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for setting standards for bottled water, which is considered a food product. The FDA has established regulations for bottled water, including allowable levels of contaminants and specific definitions for different types of bottled water. However, critics argue that the FDA needs to better regulate bottled water to address concerns about dangerous bacteria, chemical leaching from plastic bottles, and other contaminants. The question of whether pollution standards should be established for bottled water remains a subject of debate, with some arguing for stricter regulations and others for market-based solutions.

Characteristics and Values of Bottled Water Pollution Standards

The environmental impact of plastic bottles

Plastic bottles have a significant environmental impact, and their production, use, and disposal are harmful at every stage. The plastic water bottle industry generates around 600 billion plastic bottles and containers annually, resulting in approximately 25 million tons of plastic waste. Most of this waste is not recycled and ends up in landfills or the ocean, contributing to the global plastic pollution crisis.

The production of plastic bottles has severe ecological repercussions. The manufacturing process across the supply chain releases about 200 million pounds of toxic chemicals into the environment each year in North America alone. The industry's reliance on fossil fuels prolongs the climate crisis and promotes environmental racism. Furthermore, the extraction of groundwater to fill these bottles poses a threat to drinking water resources and exacerbates the world's plastic pollution problem.

The use of plastic bottles also has adverse effects. Plastic is a synthetic material that, while not inherently harmful, has become emblematic of human environmental desecration due to its single-use nature. Plastic bottles are designed for convenience and disposability, with more than 1 million bottles of water sold every minute globally. This contributes to the mounting plastic waste crisis, as these bottles are often not recycled and persist in the environment for hundreds of years.

Additionally, plastic bottles can leach chemicals into the water they contain, especially when exposed to heat. Studies have found that chemicals like phthalates, which disrupt hormones, can migrate from the plastic into the water over time. This contamination poses potential health risks to consumers, particularly those with weakened immune systems, if the water is consumed over extended periods.

The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) role in regulation

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the regulatory body responsible for ensuring the safety of bottled water. The FDA considers bottled water to be a food product and, as such, it is regulated under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). This act provides the FDA with broad regulatory authority over food products, including bottled water, that are introduced or delivered for introduction into interstate commerce.

The FDA has established specific regulations for bottled water in Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations (21 CFR). These regulations include standard of identity regulations that define different types of bottled water, such as spring water and mineral water. There are also standard of quality regulations that establish allowable levels of contaminants (chemical, physical, microbial, and radiological) in bottled water. The FDA has set Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) for bottled water, which require producers to process, bottle, hold, and transport bottled water under sanitary conditions. These CGMPs also address the protection of water sources from contamination, sanitation at bottling facilities, and quality control to ensure the bacteriological and chemical safety of the water. Bottlers are required to sample and test both the source water and the final product for contaminants and to maintain records for inspection by government inspectors.

The FDA monitors and inspects bottled water products and processing plants under its food safety program. During inspections, the FDA verifies that the plant's product water and operational water supply are obtained from an approved source, inspects washing and sanitizing procedures, and determines whether companies analyze their source water and product water for contaminants. The FDA also inspects bottling operations and bottling plants, and its field offices follow up on consumer and trade complaints regarding potentially violative bottled water products.

The FDA's role in regulating bottled water is distinct from that of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is responsible for regulating public drinking water (tap water). While the EPA's regulations on water quality serve as a baseline for the FDA, the two agencies have different standards and requirements for the water they regulate.

The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) role in regulation

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a crucial role in safeguarding water quality standards, including for bottled water, in the United States. While the EPA's primary focus is on managing the quality of public water, its regulations serve as a baseline for other agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates bottled water more directly.

The EPA's standards for drinking water quality set the bar for safe and clean water. For example, in 2001, the EPA lowered the allowable level of arsenic in public drinking water from 50 parts per billion (ppb) to 10 ppb. This action prompted the FDA to establish a similar standard for arsenic in bottled water, ensuring that consumers are protected from harmful contaminants.

The EPA also provides resources and guidance for consumers concerned about their water quality. The agency offers a Safe Drinking Water Hotline, where people can obtain information about potential health risks associated with their water supply and learn about options for filtration systems to remove contaminants. This service empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their water consumption.

Moreover, the EPA's regulations on tap water quality indirectly influence the bottled water industry. As tap water companies are legally required to provide annual quality reports to consumers, this transparency encourages bottled water producers to maintain high standards and compete on the basis of quality and safety.

In summary, while the EPA does not directly regulate bottled water, its role in establishing water quality standards, providing consumer guidance, and influencing tap water regulations has a significant impact on the overall quality and safety of water, including bottled water, in the United States. The EPA's efforts help ensure that consumers have access to safe and clean water options, whether from the tap or a bottle.

The safety and quality of bottled water

However, critics argue that the FDA needs to better regulate the contents of bottled water, as there are concerns about dangerous bacteria and other contaminants. For example, chemicals called phthalates, which can disrupt hormones, have been found to leach from plastic containers into the water over time. While there are regulatory standards limiting phthalates in tap water, there are no legal limits for bottled water. Additionally, an NRDC report found that about 22% of bottled water brands tested contained chemical levels above state health limits, which could pose health risks if consumed over a long period.

To ensure the safety and quality of bottled water, consumers can follow certain guidelines. Firstly, reading labels carefully and understanding the type of water (e.g., spring, mineral, purified) and its source is important. Secondly, opting for brands with recognized quality standards and certifications can provide assurance. Lastly, researching the company's water sourcing, treatment processes, and environmental practices can help consumers make informed choices.

While the FDA regulates bottled water in the US, global organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) also set standards for bottled water quality. These international standards serve as a baseline for countries to develop their own regulations, which may vary based on local conditions and preferences. Ultimately, the safety and quality of bottled water are important considerations for consumers, and regulations play a crucial role in ensuring that these standards are met.

The impact of storage conditions on bottled water

Temperature Control:

Maintaining a consistent and moderate temperature is crucial. Extreme temperatures or significant temperature fluctuations can negatively impact the water. High temperatures can alter the water's flavour, encourage bacterial growth, and promote the development of microorganisms. Freezing temperatures can cause the water to expand, potentially cracking or breaking the bottle. Therefore, it is recommended to store bottled water at room temperature or cooler and avoid placing it near heat sources or in areas with temperature variations, such as garages or outdoor spaces.

Avoiding Direct Sunlight:

Exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided when storing bottled water. UV rays from sunlight can degrade the water's purity and cause unpleasant flavour changes. Additionally, sunlight exposure may contribute to the growth of algae or mold, although this is not a significant public health concern.

Protection from Contaminants:

Improper storage conditions can introduce contaminants into the water. Strong-smelling substances, cleaning agents, or odorous compounds stored nearby can penetrate the bottle's seal, impacting the water's taste. It is essential to keep bottled water away from solvents and chemicals to maintain its purity and freshness.

Bottle Positioning:

Bottle positioning plays a role in maintaining the seal's integrity. It is recommended to store bottles upright to prevent leaks or spills. Stacking bottles or laying them on their sides increases the risk of damage or contamination.

Shelf Life:

Even under ideal storage conditions, bottled water should be consumed within a reasonable timeframe. Glass bottled water typically has a longer shelf life than plastic, but it is still best consumed within 12 months of bottling. Over time, the bottle's seal may degrade, allowing air to enter and affecting the water's composition and freshness. Regularly rotating stock and checking bottling dates can help maintain peak quality.

By following these storage guidelines, consumers can ensure the safety, freshness, and optimal taste of their bottled water while also preserving the durability and eco-friendly benefits of the glass or plastic bottles.

Frequently asked questions