Bottled Water Sales Up 8.6% in ‘04
Newly released statistics by Beverage Marketing Corp. show U.S. bottled water sales and consumption continuing to rise, as consumers increasingly choose bottled water over other beverages.
This upward trend was reflected in 2004 bottled water volume of nearly 6.8 billion gallons, an 8.6 percent increase over 2003, and a 2004 bottled water per capita consumption level of 23.8 gallons, compared to 22.1 gallons per capita the previous year.
These statistics demonstrate continued consumer demand and appreciation for the convenience and good taste of bottled water brands consumed on the go, during exercise, at restaurants or meetings, and at home or the office.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) fully regulates bottled water as a packaged food product with stringent standards for safety, quality, production, labeling and identity.
"While all beverages have their role in a marketplace with an abundance of drink choices, consumers are choosing bottled water as a refreshing, hydrating beverage and as an alternative to others that may contain calories, caffeine, sugar, artificial colors, alcohol or other ingredients, which they wish to moderate or avoid," said Stephen R. Kay, IBWA vice president of communications.
For an overview of bottled water regulations and standards, as well as bottled water information, visit the IBWA web site at www.bottledwater.org.
The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is the authoritative source of information about all types of bottled waters. Founded in 1958, IBWA's membership includes U.S. and international bottlers, distributors and suppliers.
Source: IBWA