An online national survey has found the majority of people in the US choose bottled water over soft drinks as a preferred beverage.

Conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), the survey report suggested that more then 63% of respondents preferred bottled water as it is healthy and easily available.

In addition, around 62% of consumers favour coffee and 58% said that soft drinks are among their most preferred beverages.

“The survey report suggested that more then 63% of respondents preferred bottled water as it is healthy and easily available.”

A total of 94% said they believe bottled water is a healthier choice than soft drinks, while 93% said bottled water should be available wherever drinks are sold.

As part of the survey, Harris Poll is reported to have interviewed more than 3,000 US adults aged 18 and older.

IBWA communications vice-president Jill Culora said: “This poll is consistent with consumption figures released earlier this year that show, for the first time in history, bottled water is the number one packaged beverage in the US by volume.

“People are shifting away from less healthy packaged drinks and choosing the healthy option, bottled water.”

Bottled water drinkers consider factors such as taste (99%), quality (99%) and safety (92%) when choosing a beverage.

Nearly 82% agreed they should drink more water.