BOTTLED OR TAP WATER – THE CONSUMER’S CHOICE?

This study investigates consumer preferences between bottled and tap water, emphasizing health concerns, environmental awareness, and sociodemographic influences. An anonymous survey was conducted among 79 students and workers at the Medical University of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, between April and May 2025. The questionnaire included 40 questions regarding water consumption habits, health perceptions, environmental attitudes, and demographic data. Findings show that 55.7% of respondents consume bottled water daily, while 46.8% consume tap water. The preference for consuming mostly bottled water or the choice of tap water is related to the situation in which consumers find themselves. Although many prefer bottled water due to taste and safety concerns, 88.6% would drink tap water if properly filtered, and 77.2% would pay more for improved tap water quality. According to 74.7%, long-term consumption of water stored in plastic bottles poses serious health risks, and 82.3% would not reuse plastic water packaging. A large proportion (78.5%) support banning single-use plastic bottles, and 94.9% favor alternative packaging. Over 74% believe bottled water poses long-term health risks. Despite recognizing health and environmental risks, bottled water consumption remains high. Public education, programе development, improved infrastructure, and promotion of safe, filtered tap water are essential to shift consumer behavior toward sustainable choices.