Radioactivity in bottled waters sold in Mexico

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Radiochemistry
• Public Health

Background:

• Bottled water is a significant source of hydration globally.
• Assessing the radiological quality of bottled water is crucial for consumer safety.
• Previous studies have indicated varying levels of radioactivity in different water sources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the gross alpha and beta activities in various bottled water brands available in the Mexican market.
• To determine if the measured radioactivity levels comply with established limits for potable water.
• To investigate potential correlations between radioactivity and water composition.

Main Methods:

• Liquid-scintillation detection with pulse-shape analysis was employed.
• Measurements were conducted on 21 domestic and international bottled water brands (purified and mineral).
• Alpha and beta activities were quantified and compared against regulatory limits.

Main Results:

• All purified water brands exhibited beta activity below the 1.0 Bq/l limit.
• Three brands of purified water exceeded the 0.1 Bq/l limit for alpha activity.
• Three brands of mineral water also surpassed the alpha activity limit, showing a correlation with mineral salt content.

Conclusions:

• While beta activity was generally within safe limits, alpha activity in some bottled waters poses a potential radiological concern.
• The origin and treatment processes of mineral waters may influence their radioactivity levels.
• Further investigation into the sources of alpha radioactivity in bottled water is warranted for public health protection.