Bottled water is steadily gaining in popularity.
Many people purchase bottled water because they prefer the taste.
Others believe that, because of environmental pollution, bottled water is a safer choice for drinking than their own household supply. In households using a public water supply, bottled water can be an alternative to tap water containing objectionable amounts of chlorine. In households using a private water supply, bottled water can be a better choice for drinking and cooking if the tap water is contaminated with harmful bacteria. Also, some types of bottled water may be an alternative to tap water containing a high level of sodium. In addition, in a household with an infant, bottled water could be substituted for a water source that has a high level of nitrate.