Explainer: What do water filtration devices do; are they necessary given the quality of Singapore’s tap water?

24 Mar 2024

02The claims made by water filtration devices have been put in the spotlight after Purexygen was issued a warning for engaging in unfair sales practices. Experts said that the health benefits claimed by sellers of alkaline water systems have "limited scientific data" to support them. Devices providing further water treatment may also be less relevant to Singapore's context, given the safety of tap water here. Consumers must maintain a "critical mindset" before making purchases and scrutinising a company's claims, said the experts. Water quality expert Kwok Chen Ko, an adjunct lecturer in SP’s School of Chemical and Life Sciences and NYP’s School of Applied Science, said there are many types of filtration systems. “In a nutshell, they remove contaminants from water using various methods, such as distillation, reverse osmosis and microfiltration,” said Mr Kwok.

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