Water Quality Testing

http://www.valparaisoutilities.org/water/water/tapvsbottle.htm

This site gives a direct table comparison of bottled water and tap water. It states the exact requirments of tap and bottled water before they are available to the public.

Tap Water Regulated by EPA Bottled Water Regulated by FDA Cannot have confirmed E. coli or fecal coliform bacteria. A certain amount of any bacteria is allowed. Filtered and/or disinfected No federal filtration or disinfection requirements. Violation of drinking water standards are grounds for enforcement. Bottled water in violation of standards can still be sold. Cities must have their water tested by certified labs. Such testing is not required for bottlers. Tap water results must be reported to state or federal officials. There are no reporting requirements for bottlers. City water system operators must be certified. Bottled water plant operators do not have to be certified. City water suppliers must issue consumer confidence reports annually. There are no public right-to-know requirements for bottlers. Costs pennies a day Costs $.80 to $4.00 per gallon. Fluoridated Contains no fluoride Contains essential nutrients for the body such as calcium and iron. Natural minerals are removed by filtration. Chlorine residual in water to prevent bacteria growth. No disinfectant present to kill bacteria in bottles.