JB Water Distillers

Is bottled water regulated?
Yes. While tap is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bottled water falls
under the regulation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Many states also have
additional monitoring and licensing requirements for bottled water sold within their borders.

Is bottled water free of lead and other contaminants?
Not necessarily. Bottled water does not have to be contaminant free,
but it cannot contain any contaminant at a level that exceeds the
FDA or state’s maximum allowable amount. To learn more about the
quality of a particular brand, contact the bottler and request a copy
of their most recent water quality analysis.

Why should I care if my bottled water is certified?
While the FDA does require bottled water companies to monitor
and conduct regular testing of their products, it isn’t required that
they have independent audits or product quality testing by a third
party. Companies that do so are taking an extra step to provide their
customers with added assurance that their products comply with all
applicable state and federal regulations.

Which is better, bottled or tap?
Just as tap water quality varies from city to city, bottled water quality
will vary from one product to the next, depending upon the quality
of the source water and the treatment it undergoes at the bottling
facility. Consumers can request a copy of their city’s annual water
quality report as well as a detailed independent analysis from
their favorite bottled water company. The two reports can then
be compared to determine which product best meets personal needs.

How long can I store bottled water?
Unopened bottled water products can usually be stored indefinitely, provided the bottles are kept
in the proper environment. Keep bottled water away from chemicals, such as cleaning compounds,
paints or gasoline. In addition, don’t store bottled water in a garage or storage shed. If you
suspect any of your stored bottled water has become contaminated (smells funny, showing
algae growth, etc.), discard or boil it before using it in an emergency.