Is tap water in Portugal safe to drink? What are the main problems/issues with the water? Is bottled water better than tap water? What is the best water filter for Portugal?
In this article we will answer these questions and also about tap water in Portugal and the reasons why you should consider using a water filter in Portugal.
Here’s a more in-depth look at tap water and bottled water in Portugal.
Tap water in Portugal
Can I drink tap water in Portugal?
Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in urban and tourist areas. However, before Portugal joined the EU, there were many problems with water infrastructure and therefore many people still prefer bottled water.
Public water is regulated by ERSAR - the Water and Waste Services Regulatory Authority - and supplied by local municipal water companies. All are strictly bound by and inspected according to the EU Drinking Water Directive, and so meet international water quality standards. In 2005 there were several reports of problems with coliform and faecal coliform in tap water during an EU inspection, but by 2015 98.7% of public water was declared safe. More in-depth information on coliforms here .
Portugal is now at the top of the list of countries in Europe where tap water test results are most frequently made available to citizens. Local tap water reports (updated at least every 3 months) are available online here .
One of the most common complaints from Portuguese citizens is the taste of the water, due to chlorination and high mineral content of the water in some areas. In addition, many people prefer bottled water because of its taste, especially in the south of the country, where the water is very hard, and in Lisbon, where it is slightly hard.
But we have good news! The taste of tap water can be greatly improved with a high-quality water filter like the TAPP 2. It can cost as little as 5 euros per month.
In recent years, the government has also begun to actively promote the consumption of tap water. In 2017, EPAL and the Portuguese Hotel Association joined forces to promote the consumption of tap water in the city of Lisbon with the launch of a bottle designed by renowned architect Siza Vieira.
Another tip is to use a reusable bottle for travel, sports and other activities outside your home where access to tap water may be limited.
Bottled water
With 114 litres of bottled water consumed per capita per year, Portugal is among the top countries in Europe in terms of bottled water consumption. There are many large local brands such as Luso by SCC, as well as other brands such as Pedras, Vidago, Vitalis and Frize. These are usually marketed as mineral water. Although considered the safest and healthiest choice, the risk of getting sick from bottled water is probably similar to that from public tap water, as both are extensively tested.
Added to this is the fact that Portugal has one of the worst recycling rates in Europe. Only approximately 10% of plastic waste is recycled. Therefore, it is recommended to either buy water in glass bottles or avoid bottled water altogether.
Filtered water in restaurants
When you order water in restaurants, you are usually served bottled water. However, we are seeing more and more restaurants using more sustainable solutions. And more and more people are ordering tap water. The good news is that thanks to recent regulations, restaurants are now required to use only glass bottles, which is much better for the environment.
Where can I buy water filters in Portugal?
TAPP is sold online on our website, with no delivery costs in Portugal. You can also find Tapp Water at the Pikikos store in Campo de Ourique in Lisbon.
Conclusion water in Portugal
It is relatively safe and healthy to drink public tap water in Portugal. You can purchase a water filter from Tapp Water to improve the taste and smell and reduce the risk of contaminants.
Origins:
http://www.golisbon.com/practical-lisbon/water.html
https://www.idexx.com/resource-library/water/2v-eu-dw-report-summary-it.pdf
http://www.adp.pt/en/media/news/news/?id=69&idn=185
http://www.pordata.pt/en/Portugal/Water+quality+for+human+consumption-1122
http://www.ersar.pt/en/consumer/drinking-water-quality/search-for-municipality
http://rstb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/364/1526/2115