Cancer Causing Chemicals, Acetaminophen, and Caffeine Found in Bottled Water

Levels Exceed California's Health Standard

A number of potentially toxic contaminants have been identified in every day brands of bottled water. The chemicals were identified during testing conducted by Washington-based Environmental Working Group, an organization founded by scientists that advocates stricter regulation.

The organization bought bottled water in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and California. The lab tests revealed the presence of 38 chemicals in 10 of the brands tested, with an average of 8 contaminants in each brand. Specifically, the results showed the presence of the radioactive element strontium, the pain reliever acetaminophen, fertilizer, plastic-making chemicals, coliform bacteria, solvents, and caffeine.

While all the brands met federal health standards, the levels of contaminants were actually 3 times those set by California's health standard. Sam's Choice sold by Wal-Mart and Acadia of Giant Food supermarkets were 2 brands identified as having chlorine byproduct levels higher than those set by California health standards.

While bottled water must meet the approximate standards set for tap water, one of the researchers, Dr. David Carpenter, director of the Institute for Health and the Environment of the University at Albany, said that 'these levels should not be in bottled water.' Consequently, the organization has notified California's attorney general that it plans to sue Wal-Mart.

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Published on Oct-15-08