Does reverse osmosis remove E. coli? Yes, when it works as intended. But that’s like asking, “Does my car protect me in a crash?” Yes—if you don’t run a red light and you get the oil changed. RO is a tool, not a miracle. Treat it with respect (and a cleaning schedule), and you’ll be fine. If you’re really paranoid, add a UV stage or stick to boiling water. Your cousin Dave now has a better party fact to share—but please, have him wash his hands before the next barbecue.
So next time someone asks, “Does RO remove E. coli?” you can smile, take a sip of your perfectly filtered water, and say, “Only if the bouncer’s sober.” Then maybe hand them a glass. Just don’t forget to sanitize the tank… or Dave might really put that hospital-grade claim to the test.
