Even though some businesses sell filtered and processed iceberg water, some people can mistakenly believe that ingesting raw glacier meltwater or iceberg water is comparable. Here are seven reseasons why the latter is dangerous.
@johnderting Safe to drink right out of these glacier pools #alaska ♬ In The Forest (Acoustic Indie No Copyright) - Instrumental - Lesfm & Olexy
Reason #1: Tardigrades
In glaciers, tiny animals known as tardigrades have been discovered. These less-than-millimeter-sized creatures have been found to endure radiation exposure in space as well as 30 years in subfreezing conditions and under extreme pressure.
Researchers discovered tardigrades, sometimes referred to as water bears, on an alpine glacier, according to a 2019 study that was published in the journal Aquatic Ecology.
They have an incredible defense system and can even endure prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Reason #2: Cyanobacteria
One cell makes up each of these tiny microscopic creatures. They have been discovered in glaciers and are thought to be the planet's earliest forms of life. Gastrointestinal side effects after consumption includes nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and slight liver enzyme increases.
Reason #3: Microalgae
Small, one-celled organisms known as microalgae have also been discovered in arctic glaciers.
It is well known that tardigrades eat cyanobacteria and microalgae. They attract tardigrades like a magnet. Due to this, glaciers with microalgae colonies are home to tardigrades, as well. Therefore, it's feasible that glacial water contains all of these organisms and possibly others.
Reason #4: Mercury
Mercury has been discovered in glaciers throughout numerous investigations. Mercury was found in a Greenland Ice Cap study that was published in Nature.
Since icebergs are substantial pieces of ice that break off from glaciers, it stands to reason that some icebergs might also have doses of mercury, which could cause poisoning.
Reason #5: Heavy Metals
A study published in the journal Polar Research shows that heavy metals such as iron, lead, zinc, copper, cadmium, and nickel have been found in glacier ice around the north pole. Heavy metal poisoning instances that go untreated can cause irreparable symptoms including brain damage, renal failure, and liver failure.
Reason #6: Bacteria and Viruses
The presence of bacteria and viruses in glaciers is well-known among scientists. It is recognized that certain bacteria and viruses can seriously ill individuals.
Many campers have returned home from trips when they drank untreated natural water with stomachaches, fevers, and debilitating diarrhea. According to the National Park Service, filtration does not by itself clean water. To make water fit for drinking, proper boiling or disinfection must come next.
Also Read: Next Pandemic May Come From Super Bacteria Unleashed by Melting Permafrost
Reason #7: Human Fecal Matter
Bacteria from human feces were discovered in the meltwater of glacier regions, according to a study that was published in the journal Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research. In addition, people taking some medication and suffering from a variety of ailments are releasing body waste near glacier camps in the wild.
Safety First
Some businesses offer bottled glacier water but these waters have been adequately filtered, cleansed, and disinfected, making the products safe for consumption. Only if the meltwater has not been processed or bottled by an accredited company may contents such as heavy metals in some glacier or iceberg water be a cause for concern, according to a report from Natural Universal Secrets.
Related Article: Author Proposes Melting, Towing Icebergs for Water Supply, Like Norway's $185 Bottle of Luxury Iceberg Water