Freshwater that is safe to drink by humans and for food preparation. Potable water is an alternative term for drinking water.
‘Drinking water’ more commonly refers to water that is demonstrated to be compliant with applicable drinking water standards. Potable water is a less formal term that can apply to any water that is considered to be suitable for drinking in terms of taste and safety, but may not have been formally analysed. For example, at a village spring, which the community has learned from experience is safe.
