Is Absopure Water Bad For You?

Absopure Water Source and Contaminant Screening

Understanding where our water originates from and what's in it is crucial for evaluating its impact on our health. Absopure Water, a brand that has been in the market for over 100 years, asserts that their water comes from natural sources, such as springs and wells. Their spring water is said to be collected from protected, naturally occurring springs, while their purified water undergoes a rigorous multi-step process to remove impurities.

The quality and safety of bottled water are overseen by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA mandates that bottled water must meet the same strict standards as public drinking water set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Absopure states that they not only meet but often exceed these standards by adhering to their own stringent quality assurance practices. This commitment is verified by their NSF International certification, a third-party organization that ensures compliance with public health standards and regulations.

Contaminant screening plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and purity of bottled water. Absopure's process involves the following steps:

• Microfiltration - To remove particles and microbiological contaminants.
• Reverse Osmosis - To reduce inorganic minerals and chemical impurities.
• Ozone Disinfection - A powerful oxidizer employed to eradicate a wide array of microorganisms.

Regular testing is part of the safety protocol, with Absopure performing daily tests in their own quality assurance laboratory. Moreover, independent laboratories are also utilized to validate the absence of contaminants and verify compliance with all safety standards.

While these procedures should theoretically ensure that Absopure Water is safe to drink, it's important to note that occasionally, news reports surface about bottled water recalls due to contamination issues across the industry. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Health found that despite widespread belief in the purity of bottled water, chemical contamination can occur at levels comparable to tap water. Consumers are urged to stay informed of any recall announcements and report any unusual taste or smell in their water.

For individuals with compromised immune systems or specific health conditions, a discussion with their healthcare provider regarding the best water options may be advisable. It's also recommended that the public review consumer confidence reports, and specifically for Absopure, one can request detailed water quality reports directly from the company to make informed decisions about their drinking water.

BPA in Plastic Bottles: Myths and Facts

When discussing the safety of bottled water, such as Absopure, a topic that frequently surfaces is the presence of Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA. BPA is a chemical compound found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, which are sometimes used in food and drink packaging, including water bottles.

While concerns over BPA exposure have led to widespread consumer fear, it's crucial to differentiate between myths and scientifically validated facts. Let's delve into what current research tells us about BPA in plastic bottles:

Myth: All plastic bottles contain BPA.

Fact: The assertion that all plastic bottles contain BPA is incorrect. Many manufacturers, including those producing bottled water, have switched to BPA-free materials in response to consumer demand. The use of BPA in food and drink packaging is subject to regulations which vary by country. For instance, the United States FDA has banned BPA from baby bottles and sippy cups, though it still permits BPA in other food containers at certain levels.

Myth: BPA-free bottles eliminate all health risks associated with plastic.

Fact: Although BPA-free bottles reduce concerns related to this particular chemical, other compounds found in plastics, like BPS and BPF, which are often used as BPA substitutes, are also under scrutiny. Some research suggests these analogs could have similar hormone-like effects as BPA, but more studies are necessary to fully understand their impact on health.

Myth: BPA exposure is only a concern if you taste or smell plastic in your water.

Fact: BPA can leach into water without altering its taste or smell. The rate of leaching can increase with higher temperatures, such as when bottles are left in a hot car. Therefore, lack of change in water flavor does not guarantee the absence of BPA.

Now, let's look at the evidence regarding the potential risks of BPA exposure:

According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, BPA can act like estrogen and other hormones in the body. This means it can potentially influence bodily processes like growth, cell repair, fetal development, energy levels, and reproduction. The Endocrine Society has expressed concern over such endocrine-disrupting chemicals for their possible link to altered reproductive function, neurological development, and increased risk of cancer, though conclusive evidence in humans is still forthcoming.

Studies have shown varying results:

• A review published in 2018 in the Environmental Pollution journal found that BPA exposure has been associated with a variety of health problems in rodents, but noted the difficulty in translating these findings to humans.
• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) current position is that BPA is safe at the very low levels that occur in some foods. This stance is based on their ongoing review of hundreds of studies.
• A study by the University of Exeter, reported in the Human Reproduction journal in 2015, suggested a possible link between high levels of BPA in the urine and reduced semen quality.

In light of these findings, it's clear that ongoing research and dialogue about BPA are needed. If you're concerned about BPA exposure from bottled water like Absopure, you can take preventative steps by:

• Choosing bottled water brands that clearly state they are "BPA-free".
• Storing water bottles away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
• Looking for water packaging made of alternative materials, such as glass or stainless steel.

Understanding the myths and facts about BPA assists consumers in making informed decisions about their bottled water choices. It's important to remain critical but also to rely on the latest scientific evidence when considering potential health risks associated with BPA in plastic bottles.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability of Bottled Water

When examining the impact of bottled water, such as Absopure Water, on the environment, it's crucial to consider several key factors that contribute to its sustainability profile. Understanding these elements can help us make more informed decisions about our consumption habits.

Production and Consumption Footprint

• Plastic Bottles: The majority of bottled waters, including Absopure Water, come packaged in plastic bottles which are typically PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or BPA-free plastics. The production of these bottles requires significant amounts of fossil fuels and water, with studies indicating that producing the plastic for bottles can take up to three times the water that the bottle itself will hold.
• Energy Usage: Energy consumption is another concern, as the entire lifecycle of bottled water — from bottle production to transportation — uses considerable energy resources. Research has shown that transporting water, often across long distances from the source to the consumer, contributes to CO2 emissions and thus, to climate change.

Recycling and Waste Management

• Recycling Rates: Despite recycling efforts, a substantial percentage of plastic water bottles end up in landfills or as litter. Data suggests that the global recycling rate for plastic bottles is less than 50%, exacerbating the issue of solid waste pollution.
• Biodegradability: Plastic bottles are not biodegradable; they can take hundreds of years to decompose. These plastics can break down into microplastics, which have been found to contaminate ecosystems and potentially enter the food chain.

Water Source and Eco-Systems

• Source Sustainability: The sourcing of the water itself is another factor. Bottled water companies may tap into underground aquifers, springs, or municipal supplies. The sustainability of these sources depends on the rate of extraction compared to the rate of replenishment. If water is extracted too rapidly, it can lead to depletion of local water sources, affecting both ecosystems and community water supplies.
• Ecosystem Disruption: The extraction process can potentially create environmental stress on surrounding ecosystems, disrupting habitats and affecting local biodiversity.

Regulations and Corporate Responsibility

• Environmental Policies: Some water bottling companies have initiated policies aimed at reducing their environmental impact. This can include using recycled plastics, investing in bottle redesign to use less material, and backing water stewardship initiatives to protect water sources.
• Compliance with Regulations: Regulatory frameworks vary by region, and companies must comply with environmental protection standards which dictate how much water can be extracted and how it should be done to minimize environmental damage.

Decisions made by both consumers and companies have profound implications for sustainability. While individual choices can contribute to demand and waste, corporate actions and policies can drive industry-wide improvements in environmental stewardship. It's important for readers to look beyond the product and consider the broader implications of bottled water on the planet. The key to triggering positive change lies with informed consumers who prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions.

Comparing Absopure to Tap Water and Other Brands

When assessing the quality and health implications of Absopure water, it is crucial to compare it with tap water and other bottled water brands. This comparison includes several dimensions, such as sourcing, filtration processes, contamination risks, and mineral content.

Sourcing

Absopure water prides itself on sourcing from natural springs or municipal water supplies that undergo rigorous testing and filtration. Tap water, on the other hand, is generally sourced from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs and is treated at municipal water facilities to meet the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. While other bottled water brands may also come from springs or purified municipal sources, the specific source can significantly impact the water's taste and quality.

Filtration and Purity

The filtration process of Absopure involves a multi-step approach, including reverse osmosis, carbon filtration, and ozonation, to ensure the purity of the water. Tap water is commonly treated with chlorine, chloramines, and other disinfectants to eliminate pathogens but may still contain varying levels of contaminants such as lead, especially in older pipes. Other bottled water brands may use similar filtration methods to Absopure, but the absence of a standardized process across the industry means that the level of purity can vary greatly from brand to brand.

Contamination Risks

Contaminant levels in bottled water, including Absopure, are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has standards comparable to the EPA's guidelines for tap water. Despite these regulations, occasional recalls of bottled water due to contamination do occur. With tap water, contamination risks might arise from aging infrastructure or local pollution. Each bottled water brand has its own record of quality control, influencing the relative risk of contamination in the product.

Mineral Content

Absopure and other bottled waters often boast a certain mineral content, which is beneficial for taste and health benefits. These minerals can include calcium, magnesium, and potassium. However, the mineral content in tap water can be just as significant, depending on the local water supply. It's also worth noting that some bottled water brands offer 'enhanced' waters with added minerals and electrolytes.

Environmental Impact

While not a direct health concern, the environmental impact of bottled waters, including Absopure, is an important consideration for overall wellness. The production and disposal of plastic bottles contribute heavily to environmental pollution. Tap water has a significantly lower environmental footprint if consumed from reusable containers.

Taste

Many consumers prefer bottled water like Absopure over tap water due to taste preferences, which can be influenced by the mineral content and absence of disinfectants like chlorine. However, this is highly subjective, and some people may not distinguish a significant taste difference, or they may prefer the taste of their local tap water.

Cost Efficiency

Financially speaking, tap water is typically much more cost-effective than Absopure and other bottled waters. The price per gallon for bottled water can be significantly higher compared to tap water, which is often just pennies per gallon.

In conclusion, while Absopure may boast certain advantages such as advanced filtration processes and potentially pleasing mineral tastes, it's essential to balance these benefits against factors like environmental impact and cost. Tap water, albeit varies in quality regionally, represents a more sustainable and economical choice. It’s important for consumers to be well-informed about their local tap water quality to make the best decision for their health and wallets.