Method to verify that the drinking water you consume is 100% purified

Daily hydration is essential for maintaining good health, and it is recommended to consume between two and three liters of water a day, depending on your level of physical activity and diet. In Mexico, it is common to purchase bottled or jug ​​water, as drinking straight from the tap is not common, unlike in other countries where drinking water is more reliable. This practice responds to the need to ensure that the liquid you ingest is clean and of good quality.

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Given the high consumption of packaged purified water, it is essential to know how to detect if a garrafon meets the appropriate standards. There are several signs that can warn if the contents are not suitable for human consumption:

• Taste and odor: The water should be tasteless and not emit any aroma. If it has a metallic or unpleasant taste or a strong odor, it may not have been treated properly.
• Transparency: The appearance must be completely clear. Any abnormal coloration or presence of visible particles could indicate contamination.
• Residues: When looking inside the carboy, there should be no solid remains at the bottom or sediment adhering to the walls.
• Physical discomfort: Symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, or nausea after drinking it can be a sign that the water is contaminated.
• Safety seal and label: It's crucial to check that the container is properly sealed and that the label contains legible information, such as the fill date and the water's origin.

For those who purchase water from local water treatment plants, the Sanitary Protection Agency (Agepsa) suggests taking extra preventive measures. One practical recommendation is to disinfect the water before drinking it. This can be done by adding two drops of colloidal silver or chlorine per liter and letting it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. This preventive measure helps minimize risks, especially in areas where health supervision is lax.

However, not all water treatment plants meet basic requirements. Inspections have identified common problems such as poor hygiene, deficiencies in filtration systems, poorly trained personnel, and even a lack of pest control. Facilities have also been found that do not regularly analyze the quality of the water they distribute, which compromises the health of consumers.

For these reasons, authorities recommend maintaining vigilance over the quality of water consumed at home. Installing home filtration systems, choosing reliable suppliers, and staying informed about the condition of water purifiers can be key steps to ensuring safe hydration. In addition to protecting our health, these practices help reduce the excessive use of plastic packaging, which represents an additional benefit for the environment.

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