What is the secondary purpose of treating drinking water?

The secondary purpose of treating drinking water is to provide water that is aesthetically pleasing. Aesthetics in drinking water include factors such as taste, odor, and clarity, which greatly affect consumer acceptance and satisfaction. While the primary purpose of water treatment is to ensure safety by eliminating pathogens and contaminants, the secondary focus on aesthetics ensures that the treated water is enjoyable to consume.

When water is visually appealing, has good taste, and is free of unpleasant odors, it encourages people to drink more water and reduces the likelihood of resorting to less healthy beverage options. This aspect of treatment is just as important for public health and consumer behavior as ensuring the water is safe to drink.