UK supermarkets deny tap water allegations

Supermarket brands Tesco and Asda have denied allegations that their respective bottled water brands Everyday Value Still Water and Smartprice Still Water are actually just tap water.

UK newspapers had alleged that the two retailers were misleading customers by concealing the contents while selling the water at a huge premium.

Tesco and Asda have responded, saying that although from mains supply, the water is filtered before being packaged for sale.

"Our Smart Price water is treated to remove chlorine, further filtered, then bottled," an Asda spokesperson said.

A spokeswoman for Tesco added; "Our Everyday Value Still Water goes through a complex filtration process to improve the taste and remove impurities."

"Tesco sells a wide range of waters to suit all tastes and budgets. All of our products are clearly labelled so customers know what they are buying."

Water UK member Jo Tanner had told the Daily Mail, "UK tap water is incredibly safe. We really are a gold standard in terms of water quality. In terms of health and safety there is no need to filter mains water."

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Image: Bottled water brands in UK are allegedly selling regular tap water at huge premium. Photo: Courtesy of Pemanducomm