Understending physicochemical characteristics described on the label of bottoled water sold in São Luís, Maranhão - Brazil

Faced with the possible contamination of water made available by public supply networks or due to medical recommendations, the demand for bottled mineral water that is food safe has led to the expansion of this type of commercialization in Brazil. This study aimed to carry out a qualitative research on the water labels sold in the city of São Luís in the state of Maranhão. The information on the labels of mineral waters was gathered to read the chemical and physical quality standards required by legislation, which regulate the trade of bottled waters within Brazilian territory. Some variations in the physical characteristics of mineral waters can be observed and this can be explained by the difference in the sources from which they are taken. Changes in chemical characteristics were also evident, with emphasis on changes in pH, however, to date there is no legislation that sets a quantitative standard for this aspect for the regulation of mineral waters in Brazil. Thus it becomes essential to know Brazilian legislation and what substances are being ingested by the body through the consumption of bottled mineral water.