Brisbane tap water with unexpected taste but deemed safe

SEQ residents have reported an unexpected taste in their tap water – here’s why.

Brisbane residents noticing an unexpected earthy taste in their tap water have been assured it is perfectly safe to drink.

Brisbane residents noticing an unexpected earthy taste in their tap water have been assured it is perfectly safe to drink, with extreme weather changes to blame for the strange odour.

Seawater, the region’s bulk water supplier, has attributed the taste change to recent hot and rainy weather, which caused an increase in 2-Methyl-iso-borneol (MIB).

While it may produce a woody taste, MIB is a naturally occurring compound and possesses no health risks, a Seqwater spokeswoman confirmed.

“Some residents in parts of Brisbane, Ipswich and Logan may have noticed a temporary change in the taste and odour of their tap water, following recent weather conditions of heavy rainfall and very hot conditions,” she said.

“Seqwater would like to reassure the community the water is safe to drink and use as normal.

“The change in taste and odour is due to a seasonal increase in algae causing a rise in these naturally occurring organics – taste and odour compounds.

Brisbane residents reported an odd taste.

“Though algae is filtered out through the water treatment process, it can leave behind compounds that can cause the treated water to temporarily taste and smell earthy or grassy.”

Seqwater confirmed it has ramped up monitoring and is collaborating with local water providers to keep residents informed as they work to minimise the effects.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner addressed the issue, noting his own children were the first to spot the difference.

“My youngest even went on strike, refusing to drink tap water,” he joked.

“First thing I did was went to my trusty friend Google and found the Queensland Urban Utilities advice

“It will go away as the weather conditions change.”

People have been assured about their water safety.

Seqwater advised that chilling the water may make it more palatable.

“Sensitivity to taste varies from person to person, so some people may not notice any change while others will,” the spokeswoman said.

“Cooling the water can help reduce any earthy taste in the tap water.

“The water continues to meet the health standards under the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.”

Seqwater reassured residents that normal taste and odour will return in due course, pending a return of stable weather conditions.

Originally published as Brisbane tap water with unexpected taste but deemed safe