NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
October 15, 2008

Contacts:   
ABA Press Office
(202) 463-6770

AMERICAN BEVERAGE ASSOCIATON STATEMENT ON BOTTLED WATER

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Environmental Working Group's latest report attempts to frighten and mislead consumers by using a cherry-picked standard that is far beyond federal guidelines.

Our member companies use scientifically tested procedures, including multi-stage filtering and reverse osmosis (R/O), to ensure that their water is as pure and fresh as possible.  In addition, they use hygienically sealed, recyclable plastic water bottles to guarantee that the water stays pure until it's consumed - a promise you can't get from the tap.

These procedures, coupled with regular testing, ensure that our members' bottled water meets or exceeds all federal health, safety and quality guidelines.

Quite simply, bottled water is a beverage option that provides consumers with access to clean, refreshing water that they can carry with them throughout the day. And millions of consumers trust us because we are committed to providing them with products that are refreshing, convenient and, above all, safe.

# # #

The American Beverage Association is the trade association representing the broad spectrum of companies that manufacture and distribute non-alcoholic beverages in the United States.

-30-