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TAP WATER: IS IT REALLY SAFE TO DRINK?

Between reassuring studies and environmental alerts, it's difficult to know who to trust. Italian expert Lisa Casali sheds light on the real quality of tap water.

What do the official analyzes say?

According to the National Center for Water Safety from the Italian Higher Institute of Health, tap water is of very good quality. It complies with strict standards and is checked regularly and thoroughly, using hundreds of samples per sampling point.

But the NGO Greenpeace recently sounded the alarm via its “Acque senza veleni” (Waters without poisons) investigation, revealing the presence of PFAS – potentially harmful chemical compounds – in 79% of samples taken in 235 cities.

Lisa Casali: “Tap water remains the most reliable”

Lisa Casali, environmental scientist and committed author, remains confident:

“Without a doubt, tap water is the most reliable option. The controls are much stricter and more regular than for bottled water. »

However, she welcomes the vigilance of Greenpeace: “Their initiative highlights a real subject, particularly with PFAS also present in many everyday objects such as packaging or disposable plates. »

New standards in 2026 for more safety

Good news: from March 2026, a European directive will impose a legal threshold for PFAS in drinking water. All suppliers are already preparing for this, and in the event of excess, sanctions will be provided.

Bottled water is not a better option

Contrary to what we often think, bottled water is not safer. Lisa Casali recalls:

  • Analyzes are not as frequent as for tap water
  • There is no requirement to list PFAS or microplastic levels on the label
  • Plastic bottles can themselves be sources of contamination

And beyond safety, we must also consider the environmental impact of bottled water: transport, production, recycling, consumption of resources... all of this weighs heavily.

Why so much distrust of tap water?

In Italy as in France, the culture of plastic and marketing has had a lasting influence on habits. Lisa Casali explains:

“We are children of an era where everything packaged and industrial was seen as safer. Today we need to change our outlook. »

How do you know if your tap water is safe to drink?

It is very easy to find out:

  • Consult the water quality reports from your municipality or supplier
  • Have your water analyzed via associations such as UFC-Que Choisir Or 60 Million Consumers
  • If necessary, use an activated carbon filter to improve the taste or remove certain residues

Lisa Casali explains: “Filters are not essential, but can be useful to overcome psychological blockages. »

Conclusion

Far from preconceived ideas, tap water is today one of the most controlled products. It is safe, economical, ecological and widely recommended by experts. So, if you still have doubts, take the time to inform yourself… or to taste your home water again. She might just surprise you.

💧 And you, are you team tap or team bottle?

👉 Source : Read the original article on La Cucina Italiana

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