Buzz
Anyone with access to running water can easily grab a glass, walk to the tap, and pour themselves 16 ounces of drinkable water. However, buying that same 16 ounces in a pre-packaged bottle like Evian or Dasani at the store could cost you $2 to $4, or even more. So, why is bottled water so expensive? And what makes some brands more expensive than others?
With bottled water, you’re essentially paying for convenience and sometimes, taste—or at least the perceived taste. Some people prefer having a cold, ready-to-drink bottle rather than the slightly warm tap water. Others may be worried about the quality of their local water supply. Either way, water bottlers capitalize on these concerns and offer an alternative at a higher price.
The High Cost of Bottled Water
The markup on bottled water depends on both the bottler and the source of the water. As reported by Reader’s Digest, manufacturers with higher packaging and advertising expenses tend to pass those costs on to consumers. Store-brand water, which likely has little to no advertising budget, is often cheaper than name-brand water that invests in ads.
Cost can also—though not always—be tied to how the water is treated. Some brands simply bottle water from public sources, essentially selling filtered tap water in a bottle adorned with a scenic image of a glacier. Others purify the water or add electrolytes for flavor. Brands like Fiji charge a premium due to their “pure” private water source in Fiji, with transportation costs factored into the price.
Bottled water carries additional costs due to federal regulation. Since it’s intended for consumption, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees the industry. The agency ensures water quality and monitors sourcing. If a water bottler claims their water comes from a spring or well, consumers can trust those claims. The FDA also imposes limits on water delivery—tap water can contain up to 15 parts per billion (ppb) of lead from pipes, while bottled water can have no more than 5 ppb.
Is it really worth the price? For some, it is. Tap water is generally safe, having undergone treatment to eliminate harmful pathogens. However, the taste could be influenced by the plumbing system in your home. The minerals in the water source could also affect the flavor.
There are legitimate reasons bottled water is costly. Whether those reasons are justified or simply leave a bad taste in your mouth is entirely up to you.
