

968: Bottled Water | Skeptical Sunday
32 snips Mar 24, 2024
In this discussion, Andrew Gold, a podcaster known for "On the Edge," dives deep into the $200 billion bottled water industry. He questions whether bottled water truly surpasses tap water. By exploring myths surrounding fluoride and analyzing the environmental impacts of bottled versus tap, Gold illuminates the hidden truths behind our drinking choices. He also highlights the dangers of water contaminants, the issues with aging infrastructure, and reveals surprising facts about the reliance on tap water within bottled brands.
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Yellow Teeth Myth
- Andrew Gold grew up believing Brits have yellow teeth due to Hollywood's portrayal.
- He thought this was because American tap water contained fluoride, unlike in the UK.
Fluoride and Tooth Decay
- Early 20th-century scientists linked higher natural fluoride levels to less tooth decay.
- The US started adding fluoride to water in the 1940s, while the UK began in the 1960s.
Bottled Water Consumption
- Bottled water consumption is higher among Black and Hispanic communities.
- This is often attributed to concerns about water quality in their areas.