**Boise's Bottled Water: Plastic Lies Fueling BPA Livers?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe tap water in Boise, Idaho, might look clear, but what’s lurking inside your bottled water could be a bigger concern than you think. We’re not just talking about taste; we’re diving deep into the plastic itself and how it could be impacting your health, specifically your liver. Forget generic advice; this is about your water, your health, and your city.
Boiseans, let’s talk bottled water.
The bottled water market is booming, and Boise is no exception. You see Dasani, Aquafina, and Arrowhead lining the shelves of Albertsons, WinCo, and even the local Trader Joe’s. But have you ever stopped to consider what those bottles are made of, and what might be leaching into the water you’re drinking?
Most bottled water is packaged in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, labeled with a #1 recycling symbol. While PET is generally considered safe for single use, repeated exposure to heat or prolonged storage can cause chemicals like BPA (Bisphenol A) and BPS (Bisphenol S) to leach into the water. These chemicals are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with your body’s hormones.
Why should Boise residents care about BPA and BPS?
Well, your liver is your body’s primary detoxification organ. It works tirelessly to filter out toxins and keep you healthy. BPA and BPS can put extra stress on your liver, potentially leading to inflammation and other health problems over time. This is especially concerning for children and pregnant women, whose livers are still developing.
Let’s get specific. Which bottled water brands are most popular in Boise, and what are their potential risks?
Dasani and Aquafina: These are ubiquitous, often the cheapest options. They are owned by Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, respectively. Their bottles are made of PET. While they claim their bottles are BPA-free, PET can still leach other chemicals.
Arrowhead: A regional favorite, especially in the West. Also packaged in PET. The source of Arrowhead water varies, which can impact its mineral content and overall quality.
Smartwater: Marketed as “vapor-distilled” for purity. Packaged in PET. The distillation process removes many minerals, leaving you with essentially empty water.
Kirkland Signature Water (Costco): Another popular choice due to its affordability. Packaged in PET. Bulk buying can lead to prolonged storage, increasing the risk of leaching.
So, what can Boise residents do to protect their liver health and avoid potential BPA/BPS exposure?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to switching to safer, locally-sourced reusable water options:
Ditch the Plastic Bottles: Invest in a high-quality, reusable water bottle made of stainless steel or glass. These materials are inert and won’t leach chemicals into your water. Hydro Flask and Klean Kanteen are popular brands readily available at REI and other outdoor stores in Boise.
Embrace Boise’s Tap Water (with a Filter): Boise’s tap water is generally safe to drink, but it can contain trace amounts of chlorine and other contaminants. A good water filter can remove these impurities and improve the taste.
Choose the Right Filter: Consider these options:
Pitcher Filters (Brita, PUR): Affordable and easy to use. Effective at removing chlorine and some other contaminants. Replace filters regularly.
Faucet Filters (PUR, Culligan): Attach directly to your faucet. Provide filtered water on demand.
Under-Sink Filters (Aquasana, APEC): More expensive but offer superior filtration. Remove a wider range of contaminants, including lead and pesticides.
Whole-House Filters: The most comprehensive option. Filter all the water entering your home. Ideal for homes with well water or concerns about widespread contamination.
Understand Boise’s Water Quality Reports: The City of Boise publishes annual water quality reports that detail the levels of various contaminants in the city’s water supply. You can find these reports on the city’s website. Understanding these reports will help you choose the right filter for your needs.
Explore Locally-Sourced Reusable Water Options: Support local businesses and reduce your carbon footprint by choosing locally-sourced reusable water options.
Refill Stations: Some local businesses in Boise offer water refill stations where you can fill up your reusable bottle with filtered water. Check with your favorite coffee shops and grocery stores.
Local Water Delivery Services: Consider a water delivery service that provides purified water in reusable containers.
Choose BPA-Free Alternatives Readily Available in the Treasure Valley: When you do need to buy bottled water, look for brands that are packaged in glass or BPA-free plastic. These options are becoming increasingly available at grocery stores like Whole Foods Market and Natural Grocers in Boise.
Common mistakes developers face when trying to improve water quality and how to overcome them:
Assuming all bottled water is the same: Not all bottled water is created equal. The source, packaging, and treatment methods can vary significantly. Do your research and choose brands that prioritize quality and safety.
Ignoring the importance of filter maintenance: Water filters need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter replacement.
Overlooking the potential for contamination in reusable bottles: Reusable water bottles can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Wash your bottle regularly with soap and water, or run it through the dishwasher.
Failing to consider the environmental impact of bottled water: The production and transportation of bottled water contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and plastic waste. Choosing reusable options is a more sustainable choice.
Not understanding local water quality reports: These reports provide valuable information about the safety of your tap water. Take the time to read and understand them.
Boiseans, your liver health is worth protecting. By making informed choices about your water consumption, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and support a healthier lifestyle. Ditch the plastic, embrace reusable options, and take control of your water quality. Your body will thank you.