Nutrition Matters: Bottled vs Tap Water

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Questions and Answers

What is a significant factor contributing to the growing trend of Americans preferring bottled water over tap water?

Taste, convenience, and health concerns.

What federal agency regulates the sanitation of public water supplies in the United States?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

What is the average amount of bottled water consumed by each American per year, according to the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA)?

About 42 gallons.

Why may drinking bottled water be a consumer's only option in certain situations?

When public water supplies are disrupted by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or earthquakes. Signup and view all the answers

What is a concern regarding the water source of some bottled water products?

The water may come from a municipal water supply. Signup and view all the answers

Which federal agency is responsible for regulating bottled water products marketed for interstate commerce?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Signup and view all the answers

What health risks are associated with BPA?

(This answer requires more context, please provide more information about BPA and its health risks.) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Safe Drinking Water Act in the context of water safety in the United States?

(This answer requires more context, please provide more information about the Safe Drinking Water Act.) Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of bottled water manufacturers under FDA guidelines?

Producing safe products Signup and view all the answers

What is added to bottled water to prevent the growth of microbes?

A substance that prevents the growth of microbes, such as bacteria Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)?

To regulate tap water quality and ensure its safety Signup and view all the answers

What is BPA, and how is it used in consumer products?

BPA is a chemical used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, used in water bottles, baby bottles, and food cans Signup and view all the answers

How can BPA leach into food and beverages?

Through polycarbonate plastic containers or epoxy resin-coated cans Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to reduce exposure to BPA?

Using glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers, and avoiding polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin-coated cans Signup and view all the answers

What is the FDA's role in regulating bottled water?

The FDA inspects water bottling facilities regularly and enforces manufacturing regulations Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a 'boil order' in relation to tap water?

To kill harmful microorganisms in the water supply Signup and view all the answers

What are flavored water beverages, and how are they regulated?

Flavored water beverages are bottled water with added flavorings or nutrients, and their labels must identify the additives Signup and view all the answers

What is the similarity between safety standards for bottled water and tap water?

Both are similar to those established by the EPA for tap water Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Regulation of Water Safety in the United States

The FDA regulates bottled water products, ensuring they are produced under sanitary conditions and meet safety standards for bacteriological and chemical contaminants.
The EPA regulates public water supplies, enforcing the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to ensure tap water is safe for consumption.

Bottled Water vs. Tap Water

In 2017, Americans consumed an average of 42 gallons of bottled water per person.
Bottled water is often similar to tap water, but can be more expensive and unnecessary for most Americans.
Some bottled water products come from municipal water supplies.

Safety of Bottled Water

Bottled water is sealed in containers with no added ingredients except for antimicrobial substances and sometimes fluoride.
The FDA requires bottled water manufacturers to follow production procedures and undergo regular inspections.
Safety standards for bottled water are similar to those for tap water.

Health Risks Associated with BPA

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins that can leach into food and beverages.
BPA can have toxic effects on health, and scientists are studying its impact on human health.
To reduce exposure to BPA, consider avoiding polycarbonate containers, heating food in plastic, and using BPA-free products.

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Description

Understand the roles of FDA and EPA in regulating water safety, pros and cons of bottled water, and health risks associated with BPA.