Packaged ingesting water has lengthy been a well-liked alternative for these looking for secure and handy hydration. Nevertheless, current developments and considerations concerning the security and high quality of bottled water have forged a shadow over this seemingly easy beverage.
A rising trade with rising considerations
India’s bottled water market has skilled important development, reaching a valuation of $3.84 billion in 2024. Whereas this surge in demand displays the growing desire for packaged water, it additionally highlights the necessity for stringent high quality management measures.
The Meals Security and Requirements Authority of India (FSSAI) has not too long ago categorised packaged ingesting water as a “high-risk meals class”, underscoring the potential well being dangers related to contaminated water. This resolution comes within the wake of the Authorities’s transfer to eradicate necessary BIS certification for packaged ingesting and mineral water.
The darkish facet of bottled water
Regardless of strict rules, considerations concerning the security of bottled water persist. Reviews of microbial contamination and the presence of dangerous chemical compounds like pesticides and heavy metals in sure manufacturers have raised alarm bells.
A research by Orb Media revealed a disturbing reality: 93% of the 259 water bottles sampled contained microplastic particles.
Guaranteeing water security: A shared accountability
To deal with these considerations, FSSAI has applied stricter tips for the packaged water trade. Producers are actually required to stick to rigorous testing protocols for each chemical and microbial contaminants. Moreover, the rules emphasise the significance of secure packaging supplies, common third-party audits, and clear labelling.
As customers, we play an important position in safeguarding our well being. Listed below are some ideas to make sure the security of your bottled water:
- Examine the bottle: You will need to examine bottles for any seen harm or indicators of tampering and to verify the expiry date earlier than shopping for. Earlier than shopping for bottled water, search for certifications to ensure its purity and security.
- Confirm the expiry date: We regularly see expiration dates on bottled water. Typically, bottled water stays secure to drink for as much as six months when saved in a cool, darkish place. Nevertheless, earlier than a purchase order it’s crucial to make sure the water is recent and inside its shelf life.
- Select trusted manufacturers: Selecting well-established and trusted manufacturers is one other good transfer, as these firms usually tend to adhere to high quality requirements so as to keep the goodwill of the organisation. Moreover, avoiding shopping for water from unregulated sources can additional cut back the chance of contamination.
- Take into account reusable water bottles: By selecting a reusable water bottle and carrying your personal water bottle, you may minimise your publicity to potential contaminants and considerably cut back the quantity of single-use plastic getting into the environment, contributing to a more healthy ecosystem.
Whereas FSSAI’s new rules are a step in the correct route, the accountability nonetheless lies with each producers and customers to make sure packaged water meets the very best security requirements. By staying knowledgeable and cautious, we are able to make smarter decisions with regards to hydration and safeguard our well being.
Edited by Arunava Banerjee
