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copper or brass which is better for drinking water
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General Health
Question #24553
46 days ago
82

copper or brass which is better for drinking water - #24553

Sara

I am really confused about whether copper or brass which is better for drinking water. I mean, for the past few months, I've been trying to switch to more natural materials for my kitchen. I heard a lot of good things about using copper water bottles, right? People say it helps purify the water and has health benefits, so I thought I'd give it a try. But then I stumbled upon some info about brass, too, and now I don't know what to believe. I started feeling anxious like am I making the right choice? I bought a beautiful copper jug, but then I noticed some comments about how brass could be durable and less reactive, at least that’s what a buddy told me! My sister says copper might cause issues if there's too much exposure because of the leaching. But seriously, how do I decide if copper or brass which is better for drinking water? Are there any tests or guidelines or whatever I should be looking at? I just really want to make sure my family is safe and not drinking from something that could harm us! Any advice from all you experts would be super helpful!

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Doctors' responses

Choosing between copper and brass for drinking water involves considering both the potential benefits and risks of each. Both metals have been historically used in utensils and have antimicrobial properties, which can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Copper, in particular, is known for some health benefits, such as supporting the immune system and having antioxidant properties. However, when it comes to safety, there are crucial factors to consider. Copper can leach into water, especially if the water is acidic (pH below 6.5). Excessive intake of copper can lead to nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to use copper containers only for storing water for short periods, typically less than 8 hours, to minimize the risk of overconsumption. On the other hand, brass is an alloy made primarily of copper and zinc. While it can also leach metals into water, the effects depend on its composition and the presence of other elements like lead, which can pose significant health risks. Therefore, if you choose brass, ensure it’s labeled as lead-free for safe water storage. In terms of durability and reactivity, brass tends to be more resistant to corrosion compared to pure copper, which might appeal to those concerned about longevity. Regarding guidelines, it’s advisable to follow any national standards or advisories on metal leaching in your region. Regularly performing basic maintenance, like cleaning with a non-abrasive solution, also helps in reducing any risk of contamination. If in doubt, or if watery safety remains a concern, consider consulting a professional who can provide specific testing for heavy metals in your water, ensuring it’s within the healthy consumption range.

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