Tunisia is among the largest consumers of bottled water in the world. This trend reveals growing distrust of tap water. It also highlights flaws in the management of water resources. Consequently, the sale of water truck, very widespread, raises serious health doubts.
Invited this Monday, August 11, on Monday, on the air of the national radio, Professor Hamza Elfil, specialist in water resources, explained the situation. According to him, even if the water is drinking at the source, it can quickly become unfit for consumption. Indeed, the conditions of transport and the lack of maintenance of cisterns promote bacterial contamination. For this reason, he recommends adding a few drops of chlorine or bleach before drinking it.
In addition, another danger threatens consumers: microplastics. A recent study conducted at the Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte detected more than 2,000 particles of microplastics in certain water samples. To limit their ingestion, the teacher advises installing suitable filters on the taps. He also advises against buying bottled water stored in full sun, as it accelerates the degradation of plastics.
Finally, the National Instance for Food Products (INSSPA) intensifies controls to guarantee the water quality distributed. Faced with these challenges, it is crucial that consumers and authorities redouble vigilance to preserve public health.
