Effect of bromophenols on the taste and odour of drinking water obtained by seawater desalination in south-eastern Spain

► Bromide is a natural constituent in desalinated water. ► High bromide content leads to the development of bromine-substituted phenols after chlorination. ► The presence of bromophenols causes medicinal odour and taste episodes. ► Sources of bromide in water should be avoided. ► Levels of phenol depend of the time the water remains in the distribution system.