With the rise in health awareness, bottled water has become a staple in our daily lives. But recent reports have exposed some unsettling truths about prominent bottled water brands. Some of the world's leading bottled water companies have admitted to non-compliant practices, shaking consumer trust worldwide.
"Water is the driving force of all nature." - Leonardo da Vinci
The Unsettling Revelation
Nestlé, one of the leading bottled water companies globally, has admitted to using banned treatments to purify mineral water. This controversial revelation has raised concerns regarding the safety and integrity of bottled water brands. Nearly 30% of commercial designations are reported to undergo non-compliant treatment methods, representing a significant fraction of the market.
The treatments in question, including ultraviolet treatments and activated carbon filters, are strictly prohibited for natural mineral water or spring water. However, they are permissible for tap water or "water made drinkable by treatment". Nestlé has confirmed the use of these prohibited treatments but assures the public that these practices are no longer in use.
The Investigation Unveiled
A detailed investigation by Radio France and Le Monde underscored the findings reported by the General Inspectorate of Social Affairs (Igas), submitted to the French Government in July 2022. The investigation highlighted that while the overall compliance level with bottled water is high, it would be careless to assert that health risks, including microbiological risks, are entirely under control.
The Whistleblower's Tale
The case originated when a former employee of Sources Alma – a company producing around 30 bottled waters in France, including Cristaline, Saint-Yorre, and Vichy Célestins – reported suspicious practices in a factory of the group to the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control at the end of 2020.
The Belgian Perspective
In contrast to the unsettling revelations in France, experts in Belgium believe that bottled water remains safe. Liesbeth Van de Voorde, from the Belgian FAVV Food Safety Centre, assures that "The irregularities found in France concern a possible deception of consumers and have no direct impact on food safety."
Safety checks on Belgian bottled water are conducted through random sampling and analysis, as well as inspections at the premises of Belgian producers. Over the last three years, more than 99% of the samples have proven to be compliant.
The Eco-Conscious Alternative: TAPP Water Filter
While these revelations have created an air of uncertainty around bottled water, there's an alternative that's not only safe but also eco-friendly. The TAPP Water Filter allows you to drink filtered water directly from your tap at home in Malta. By opting for this, you're not only choosing a healthier option but also reducing your reliance on plastic bottles, thereby contributing to a greener planet.
Wrapping Up
In light of recent revelations, it's crucial to be informed about the practices of bottled water companies. While it's reassuring that strict regulations are in place, the admission of non-compliant practices by a leading brand like Nestlé is a cause for concern.
Opting for alternatives like the TAPP Water Filter can provide a safe, eco-friendly solution. After all, water is a fundamental necessity, and its safety should never be compromised.
"Pure water is the world’s first and foremost medicine." - Slovakian Proverb
