Bottled Water Under Scrutiny: Why a Filter Tap Might Be the Safer Bet

Recent investigations in France have sent shockwaves through the bottled water industry. Perrier - one of the most iconic mineral water brands in the world - is now at the centre of a scandal that’s raising serious questions about what’s really inside those bottles on supermarket shelves.
Reports by Le Monde, Radio France, and the French Senate revealed that many so-called “natural mineral waters” were anything but untouched. At least a third of bottled brands were found to have undergone hidden treatments, including UV light, carbon filtration, and micro-mesh technology - all of which are technically not allowed under the strict definitions these products are supposed to follow. In short, water sold as naturally pure was actually processed behind the scenes.
The revelations have hit consumer trust hard. These are brands that built their reputations on purity and nature, and now it turns out that even they’re struggling to guarantee safe water straight from the source. And it’s not just about misleading marketing - the investigations point to bigger problems, like drought, pollution, over-pumping, and the simple fact that no water source is immune from the effects of climate change and industrial activity.
So what does this mean for households here in the UK?
It’s a reminder that bottled water isn’t always the safer or cleaner option. In fact, relying on it for purity or peace of mind is becoming harder to justify not just because of the price or the plastic waste, but because the product inside the bottle might not be all that different from what’s already coming out of your tap. And in most cases, your tap water - with the right filtration - could be far better.
A high-quality filter tap gives you control over your own water supply, right at home. You’re not relying on distant bottling plants or companies with shifting standards. With the right system especially one that filters down to 0.5 microns - you can remove chlorine, bacteria, microplastics, and even traces of heavy metals. And when the system is properly maintained, that protection is consistent. You’re not gambling on what’s inside the next bottle.
There’s also the environmental side to think about. Filter taps eliminate the need for single-use plastic and the carbon impact of transporting bottled water across countries and continents. In today’s world, that kind of sustainability matters not just for the planet, but for the long-term resilience of your own water setup.
The Perrier situation isn’t just about one brand being caught out. It’s part of a wider shift. Water quality around the world is under pressure from climate stress, ageing infrastructure, and pollution. Bottled water is no longer the gold standard it once appeared to be.
At The Filter Tap Company, we believe in putting the power back in your hands. With a good filter and regular maintenance, your kitchen tap can be your most reliable source of clean, safe, great-tasting water. No labels, no transport, no guesswork - just water you trust, glass after glass.
Because in the end, real purity doesn’t come from a brand name. It comes from knowing exactly what’s in your water, and having the tools to protect it yourself.
Read more about the Perrier scandal here:

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