Define Water as a source of dietary minerals?
Although water is composed of only oxygen and hydrogen, the water we drink or use in food preparation can contain significant amounts of minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper and fluoride; the amount will vary based on the source of water and any treatment the water has been put through. While hard water will contain magnesium and calcium, the soft water may contain sodium. Being an effective solvent, water may carry significant amounts of toxic compounds of lead or cadmium, pesticides and also industrial waste products. Regular monitoring of water supply to check for such contamination is essential to safeguard the public health.