Occurrence of Microplastics in Tap and Bottled Water: Current Knowledge

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly detected in various water sources, raising public health concerns.
• The potential toxicity of MPs is linked to their composition, additives, and adsorbed substances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on microplastic occurrence in drinking water.
• To assess the differences in MP contamination between tap water and bottled water.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of 21 studies on microplastic presence in drinking water.
• Analysis of MP concentration in relation to particle size and packaging type.

Main Results:

• Microplastics (MPs) were found in both tap water (TW) and bottled water (BW).
• MP concentration increased with decreasing particle size and was higher in BW than TW.
• Reusable PET and glass bottles showed higher MP contamination compared to other packaging.

Conclusions:

• Tap water generally has lower MP abundance than bottled water, suggesting effective removal in treatment plants.
• Consumers are encouraged to choose TW over BW to minimize MP exposure and plastic waste.
• Harmonized protocols are needed for comparable results and risk assessment of MPs in drinking water.