Drinking Water in Israel

Last week's rain inspired today's topic. Today's topic is not wacky or trendy; it is simply useful. Rain=water and here are a few things about water you should know when you visit Israel. First, tap water is safe and drinkable, whether you are in the city or in a rural area. Its flavor varies from place to place, depending on its source, as well as the domestic water pipes quality. Some claim that tap water doesn't taste that well due to the high mineral content but it's an acquired taste. Also, Israeli tap water is fluoridated. There's a huge public debate whether fluoridation is beneficial or not. So far it is quite certain that the Ofer Family, the tycoons that provide the fluoride to the Israeli water system is the greatest benefiter.

Bottled water is available for sale everywhere. There are 4 main local brands: Eden, Neviot, Aqua Nova and Ein Gedi Water. Aqua Nova is filtrated tap water and the other brands are spring water. Please, please, please do us all a favor and don't buy Ein Gedi Water. It is bottled by Kibbutz Ein Gedi in Judea Desert, that's been pumping David spring and nature resort dry. Do not support them. There are imported brands like San Benedetto and purified and spring water bottled by smaller companies usually found in smaller shops and/ or away from the big cities.

(don't buy this brand)

In any case, drink plenty of water – Israel is a hot country.