Drinking water is one of the basic necessities of life. However, when drinking water becomes toxic, it raises serious concerns. In a recent incident, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken action against a manufacturer of alkaline water after identifying several labelling and safety violations at its unit in Gujarat. The details are as follows.
Inspection and Findings
According to a press release shared by FSSAI on X, officials from the Western Regional Office conducted a post-licence inspection at the company's manufacturing facility in Savli, Vadodara. During the inspection, authorities discovered multiple issues with the packaged alkaline water being sold by the company. The technical scrutiny revealed non-compliances such as unexplained blackish-brown coloration, the presence of sediments, and contradictory descriptions between the primary and secondary packaging.
Regulatory Action
In response to the seriousness of these findings, regulatory officials seized stocks valued at approximately INR 31.61 lakh and initiated formal proceedings under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006. The laboratory analysis of the water confirmed the presence of fulvic acid, a substance not permitted under current FSSAI regulations. It was found that the ingredients originated from the addition of black mineral substances and were not inherent to the raw or processed water, confirming a clear violation of established safety standards.
What is Fulvic Acid and Its Risks?
According to medical science, fulvic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound formed when plants and microorganisms decompose in soil, peat, and bodies of water. Scientific evidence indicates that because it comes from soil and organic matter, some products may contain contaminants such as lead, arsenic, mercury, and other heavy metals. Excessive consumption of fulvic acid can lead to nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and stomach discomfort, potentially affecting the immune system and mineral absorption.
What Else Did They Find in the Water?
The laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of fulvic acid, which is not allowed under FSSAI regulations. The ingredients originated from added black mineral substances, not from the raw or processed water itself. In its statement, FSSAI said it remains committed to ensuring that all food and beverage products sold in the market are safe, wholesome, and accurately labelled.
What is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is a type of water that has a higher pH level than regular drinking water. Normal drinking water usually has a neutral pH of around 7, while alkaline water typically has a pH between 8 and 9. It may contain minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonates.
Benefits of Alkaline Water
- Better hydration: It is said to help with hydration after exercise due to its mineral content and electrolyte balance.
- Help with acid reflux: With a pH above 8.8, it may help deactivate pepsin, an enzyme linked to acid reflux symptoms.
- Rich in minerals: It is rich in calcium for bones, magnesium for muscles and nerves, and potassium for electrolyte balance.
Images courtesy: istock and FSSAI
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