Chemical Quality of the Leading Bottled Water Brands Distributed in Gorgan, Iran

Background: With the growing use of bottled water, the continuous research and monitoring of the quality of these products are crucial. The present study aimed to assess the chemical quality of the bottled water distributed in Gorgan, Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted on the samples of bottled water distributed in Gorgan city. Sampling was performed during four months (one sample of each brand obtained every month; total: 36). The chemical quality of the samples was measured using standard methods. Results: The mean concentrations of nitrate, fluoride, and iron and mean pH of the samples were 12.92 ± 11.05, 0.33 ± 0.12, and 0.64 ± 2.9 mg/l and 6.89 ± 0.39, respectively. Only the physicochemical parameters of pH and iron were significantly higher than the standard values, and the mean levels of the chemical factors were significantly lower than the standard values (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Consumers expect bottled water to have higher quality as they perceive the product to be a healthier choice than the water supplied by urban distribution networks. High levels of some chemical parameters could adversely affect the health of consumers, especially vulnerable populations, which should be taken into consideration by custodians and authorities.