In 2011, total U.S. bottled water consumption increased to 9.1 billion gallons, up from 8.75 billion gallons in 2010. While all other major beverage categories such as carbonated soft drinks, milk and fruit beverages continue to suffer declines in consumption, bottled water rates head in the opposite direction. Per-capita consumption is up 3.2% in 2011, with every person in America now drinking an average of 29.2 gallons of bottled water last year.

According to Gary Hemphill, managing director, information services at BMC, “All signs point to U.S. consumers’ already displayed thirst for bottled water continuing in the years ahead. Changes in per capita consumption indicate persistent interest in a product that consumers embrace as a healthful alternative to other beverages.”

“Indeed, bottled water added more gallons to its per-person consumption rate in 10 years than either ready-to-drink tea or sports beverages reached by the end of that period,” he added. “In fact, neither even reached 5 gallons per U.S. consumer by 2011. Bottled water proved itself to be not only a key component of the liquid refreshment beverage market; it also proved itself to be poised for future increases in per capita consumption.”

“People choose bottled water for a variety reasons,” said Chris Hogan, IBWA’s vice president of communications. “Many consumers are focusing on healthful choices for themselves and their families, and they know that crisp, refreshing bottled water has zero calories and is the healthiest option on the shelf. They also appreciate the reliable, consistent quality of bottled water.”

 From the May 22, 2012, Prepared Foods’ Daily News