The effect of using jug-type water filters on selected metals concentration in tap water – a case study

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this study, the effect of the filtration process on Na, K, Mg, Ca, Fe and Zn concentration in water, using filters from one of the leading European manufacturers, was investigated. The increase in Na (up to 300%) and K concentration (up to 320%) at the beginning of jug filter usage was reported. A decrease in Ca, Fe and Zn concentration was observed. Standard filters remove 80–90% of Mg from tap water at the beginning of the usage, while magnesium-enriching ones slightly increase its concentration – from around 8 to 12–25 mg/L. Significant changes in the filter's operating characteristics were also observed for other studied elements as they wore out. Using Mg-enriching filters can increase magnesium intake from 4–5 to 6–15% of the recommended daily dose from water consumption. The results were also discussed regarding the amounts of macroelements found in commercially available bottled water. The magnesium concentration in tap water after filtration through magnesium-enriching filters was lower compared to bottled mineral waters. The authors note a scope for the development of water filter production technology, in particular, the need to develop filters that more efficiently enrich water with magnesium and do not increase sodium concentration.