Scottish Water has been monitoring water supplies after residents in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire reported an “earthy” taste and smell.
Water supplies from the Invercannie Water Treatment Works are being monitored.
The company has found the presence of Geosmin in the supplies, which is causing the earthy and musty taste and smell.
According to Scottish Water, it is “harmless” and naturally occurs when algae and other micro-organisms break down in the raw water sources.
It usually appears after a period of dry, hot weather, followed by rainfall.
The distinct earthy musty taste and odour present in foods like beetroot, spinach and mushrooms.
It also contributes to the strong smell that occurs in the air when rain falls after a dry spell of weather.
Scottish Water recommends chilling water, adding ice, or even a slice of lemon or a few drops of lemon juice, to help reduce the taste and smell.
However, it is stressed the water is tested rigorously and has been found to be safe.
Although the company is carrying out ongoing operations to reduce the unpleasant taste and smell, they say it is difficult to predict how long it will take.
Readers react to water issues
People from different postcode areas have taken to social media to talk about the smell and taste of the water.
Lin Petrie, from the Mastrick area of Aberdeen, said: “I smelt a musty smell from my shower water – cleaned the shower head but all my household water smells / tastes foostie.”
Jamie Kemp wrote: “I’ve had it the last week on Lang Stracht, smells a bit like pond water.”
Pat Lawson just reported a “terrible earthy and musty” taste in the AB31 area.
However, Keith McDonald said: “Our water has had a smell for months in the AB51 area.”
Others commented to say they thought there was something different about their water.
Ross Wilson said: “I thought it was the chemicals in treating the water as the water tastes a bit different in the AB33 area.”
Millie Low commented: “I thought I was going insane.”
Danielle Reid added: “Just said this the other day. At least I’m not going mad.”
Find out more about Geosmin online.
