BOTTLED VS TAP~ article summary

In “Bottled Water Vs. Tap Water: Rethink What You Drink,” Readers Digest, Janet Majeski Jemmott expresses how bottled water has became the go to convenient thirst quencher, but questions its safety. Jemmott explains how chemicals such as; phthalates, bisphenol (BPA), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), have been found in bottled water. These chemicals come from either the bottle the water is stored in, the plant from which it was bottled or the original water source. If bottled water is stored in heated areas, near toxic fumes, or other chemicals, the water could possibly be affected. These chemicals have a negative effect on consumers. Jemmott states that consumers can experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea from bottled water that has sat around for long periods of time. She also explains that bisphenol (BPA) may cause neurological and behavioral problems in young children and affect the brain, female reproductive system and immune system in adults. Jemmott questions whether bottled water is really the “purest drink.”  She explains that more than twenty-five percent of bottled water comes from tap and is then treated, purified and sold at an extremely high price. The majority of bottled water companies excludes this information and are not required to.  Consumers are being tricked into believing that their drinking water comes from the cleanest springs and purest sources, when in fact, it is local tap water.  Jemmott goes on to bottled waters negative effect on the environment. She explains that, bottling water increases the use of fossil fuel, carbon pollution, and littering. Jemmott expresses her concerns and offers alternative solutions. She encourages consumers to try tap water again, use filters, and have it tested to ensure good quality. She also suggests the use of canteen and glass containers which are convenient and can be reused.  Taking these small actions could lead to fewer environmental and health issues, along with less money spent.