A family of four that buys bottled mineral water, consuming two liters per person per day, spends at least 496 euros per year. On the other hand, if they drank tap water, they would pay only 5.25 euros, a hundred times less. This is reported by a survey carried out by the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU), which also reveals that 41% of Spaniards prefer to drink packaged mineral water at home, instead of tap water.
The taste of tap water varies by region. Sometimes it is very hard, has a lot of lime or salts, so in certain areas it is common to resort to bottled mineral water for drinking or cooking. In the Valencian Community and Catalonia, more than 65% of residents prefer to drink bottled water. In Galicia, Castilla-La Mancha and Castilla y León, more than 40%. On the other hand, in Madrid and the Basque Country, this figure is less than 11%.
In Spain, tap water is completely safe, since it passes all the necessary controls to guarantee that it is drinkable. However, the taste and smell of the water in certain areas of the country may cause some users to doubt its quality. The concentration of minerals such as calcium or magnesium, which cause water to be called “harder”, can alter the taste and even damage appliances due to lime deposits. On the other hand, “softer” water, such as that found in Galicia, the Pyrenees area and in Madrid, usually has a better flavor.
The OCU suggests prioritizing the consumption of tap water, since it is cheaper and better for the environment. If the taste of tap water is unpleasant, it is recommended to buy mineral water from local springs, because transporting it has less environmental impact and is usually cheaper. It is preferable to buy it in five or eight liter bottles to save even more. Once at home, mineral water should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from sunlight, and consumed within two or three days after opening.
