Americans spend $16 billion on bottled water every year.
In a groundbreaking study recently published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers utilized laser-powered microscopes to analyze three common bottled water brands. The shocking revelation: a liter of bottled water contains an alarming average of 240,000 pieces of plastic, with sizes ranging from microplastics to nanoplastics.
The Microscopic Threat : Understanding the Size
The world “is drowning under plastic pollution, with more than 430 million tonnes of plastic produced annually. Microplastics are found in the world’s oceans, food and drinking water with some coming from clothing and cigarette filters, according to the United Nations Environment Programme.
Microplastics, with a diameter less than 5 mm, and nanoplastics, ranging from 1 to 1000 nm, pose an invisible threat. To put this in perspective, there are 10 million nanometers in a centimeter. The study indicated that a significant portion (90%) of these plastic particles were nanoplastics, more toxic due to their smaller size, making them highly susceptible to entering the human body.
Is Bottled Water Safe?
The answer is No. Microplastics remain a subject of ongoing research. Despite the uncertainty, a study published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that microplastics affect various systems in the human body. These systems include the digestive, respiratory, endocrine, reproductive, and immune systems.
The same study noted that microplastics induce chemical toxicity by absorbing and accumulating environmental toxins, such as heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. This raises concerns about the long-term consequences of regular bottled water consumption.
In a study published in 2018 titled "Synthetic Polymer Contamination in Bottled Water," plastic contamination emerged as a rampant issue. Analyzing samples from 259 bottled waters across several countries, the study uncovered that 93 percent contained "microplastic" synthetic polymer particles.
Instances of high arsenic levels were detected in bottled water retailed by major outlets such as Whole Foods and Walmart.
Despite being generally considered safe, scientists discovered that when exposed to hot or warm temperatures, these plastic bottles could leach dangerous chemicals into the water they contain.
Rethinking Our Water Choices
In a landscape where 82% of U.S. consumers express concerns about contaminants in their drinking water. In light of these findings, it's crucial to reassess our consumption of bottled water.
While prices fluctuate, bottled water costs can range from 250 to 10,000 times higher than that of filtered water. Upon discovering the extent of plastic contamination, Study co-authors advocate for alternatives. With some opting for filtered tap water over bottled alternatives.
Installing a home water filtration system, utilizing a fridge with a filter, or opting for a simple jug filter like an ALkaline water pitcher represents a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to hydration.
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Conclusion
In a world where microplastics have infiltrated our hearts and even the air we breathe, the study on bottled water is a stark reminder of plastic pollution's pervasive nature. As consumers, it's imperative to stay informed and make conscientious choices for our health and the environment.
For a healthier, economical, and environmentally friendly choice, filtered tap water is the best investment.
Mason, S. A., Welch, V. G., & Neratko, J. (2018). Synthetic Polymer Contamination in Bottled Water. Frontiers in chemistry, 6, 407. https://doi.org/10.3389/fchem.2018.00407