Contaminants Linked to Cancer Found in Bottled Water

October 2008

When you buy a bottle of water you may get more than you bargained for. Tests on popular brands of bottled water revealed the presence of contaminants, including cancer-linked chemicals at concentrations three times higher than California's health standard.

Lab tests found 38 chemicals in 10 brands, with an average of eight contaminants in each type of bottled water. Tests revealed coliform bacteria, fertilizer, caffeine, solvents, the pain reliever acetaminophen, plastic-making chemicals, and the radioactive element strontium. Eight of the 10 brands did not have worrying levels of contaminants, but Sam's Choice, sold by Wal-Mart, and Acadia, sold by Giant Food, did. Further testing was performed on these products, revealing the presence of chlorine byproducts called trihalomethanes, which have been strongly linked to cancer as well as birth defects.

Researchers said that some of the contaminants came from pollutants commonly found in tap water and others probably leached from plastic bottles. The two-year study was conducted by the Washington-based Environmental Working Group. The researchers said that those concerned about the safety of the water should use a carbon filter for their tap water.