Why are taste and odour important characteristics of water?

Taste and odour are essential characteristics of water because they significantly influence its aesthetic quality, which can affect consumer acceptance and usage. When water has an unpleasant taste or smell, it is often regarded as unpalatable, leading individuals to avoid drinking it, regardless of its safety or purity. Regulatory standards set by health and environmental bodies often include limits for taste and odour in drinking water to ensure it meets the expectations of consumers and encourages its use. Balancing aesthetic qualities with health and safety considerations helps to promote better public health and encourages the consumption of water, which is vital for hydration and overall health.

The other aspects related to taste and odour, such as their potential links to temperature or harmful bacteria presence, are relevant but secondary to the primary concern of aesthetics and consumer satisfaction. They can also sometimes lead to perceptions of water quality that may not necessarily relate directly to its safety, especially if the taste or smell is due to non-harmful substances.