I keep my food, water and other craftables in my workshop inventory and noticed recently that all of my purified water is gone! Who knows what else they've been swiping behind my back. I give them beds, shelter, protection and my undying love and they still can't be trusted.

Seriously, I'm wondering if the reason for this is that settlements which are in my caravan network that may be undersupplied with water because of population growth may be doing the stealing. Anyone know the answer?

They should be taught a lesson! Spank them with a board

I've never had anything missing out of workbench storage. Junk and Aid items ARE shared by settlements that are trade route connected.

maybe next time they are under attack......

Do you have supply lines set up? The water may have gone to other settlements that need it.

Sounds like the settlement inventory automation is buggy.

Any food and water you put in your Workshop will be used by the settlement if it is needed just as any excess food and water it produces will be stored there. If you have supply lines setup they will be available to the other settlements for their use if they are short on food or water. Also if you place weapons or armour in your workshop it may be scrapped for resources (except legendary items) when you mod or build anything. You can also use the Workshop to make weapons and/or armour collected near one settlement available in another settlement connected by a supply line (saves having to carry it there, just be aware of the previous statement!).