Water consumption patterns among individuals in Cape Town

Liquid consumption patterns among individuals in Cape Town, South Africa, were ascertained. Two dietary surveys, one in summer and the other in winter, (n=1445 and 1393 persons) were carried out using a 24-hour recall of all food and drink items consumed. Total water consumption was calculated by using food composition tables. Water consumption was categorised by source: domestic tap water, water added in commercial processing, and water naturally bound in food. Mean total consumption was 1770 ml/head.day. Only 52% of the water consumed came from the tap at home. Water consumption was also classified by source from solid and liquid foods. 20.5% of total liquid is derived from solid foods.