With FSSAI now labelling packaged water as a ‘high-risk’ food category, understanding what you’re drinking is more important than ever. This guide will help you make sense of the new regulations, make safer choices, and stay informed about the safety of your bottled water.
Packaged drinking water has long been a popular choice for those seeking safe and convenient hydration. However, recent developments and concerns about the safety and quality of bottled water have cast a shadow over this seemingly simple beverage.
India’s bottled water market has experienced significant growth, reaching a valuation of $3.84 billion in 2024. While this surge in demand reflects the increasing preference for packaged water, it also highlights the need for stringent quality control measures.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently classified packaged drinking water as a “high-risk food category”, underscoring the potential health risks associated with contaminated water. This decision comes in the wake of the Government’s move to eliminate mandatory BIS certification for packaged drinking and mineral water.
Despite strict regulations, concerns about the safety of bottled water persist. Reports of microbial contamination and the presence of harmful chemicals like pesticides and heavy metals in certain brands have raised alarm bells.
A study by Orb Media revealed a disturbing fact: 93% of the 259 water bottles sampled contained microplastic particles.
To address these concerns, FSSAI has implemented stricter guidelines for the packaged water industry. Manufacturers are now required to adhere to rigorous testing protocols for both chemical and microbial contaminants. Additionally, the guidelines emphasise the importance of safe packaging materials, regular third-party audits, and transparent labelling.
As consumers, we play a crucial role in safeguarding our health. Here are some tips to ensure the safety of your bottled water:
Inspect the bottle
Verify the expiry date
Choose trusted brands
Consider reusable water bottles
While FSSAI’s new regulations are a step in the right direction, the responsibility still lies with both manufacturers and consumers to ensure packaged water meets the highest safety standards. By staying informed and cautious, we can make smarter choices when it comes to hydration and safeguard our health.
