A significant number of mineral water bottles from major brands, including Bailley, Signature, Apollo Aqua, and Himalaya, have failed quality checks conducted by the Karnataka Health Department. Out of 296 samples tested across the state, a concerning 95 samples were found to be unsafe, while an additional 88 samples were deemed substandard based on chemical and microbiological reports.
The alarming findings extend beyond bottled water, with the Health Department also revealing that a staggering 60 per cent of green peas samples tested were unsafe for consumption. Out of 115 green peas samples collected, 69 were found to be adulterated with artificial colouring agents.
The Health Department has vowed to take strict action against the erring companies. Speaking to the media, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao expressed serious concern over the findings. “We have tested a significant number of mineral water samples, and the results are deeply concerning. 95 samples have been found unsafe, and another 88 are substandard. This is unacceptable when it comes to a basic necessity like drinking water,” the minister stated.
He further added, “The brands involved include major national players like Bailley, Signature, Apollo Aqua, and Himalaya. We will cease the operations of the specific batches that have turned out to be unsafe, but we cannot completely shut down the entire companies at this stage.”
Regarding the unsafe green peas samples, the Minister highlighted the severity of the issue. “The fact that 60 per cent of the green peas samples are unsafe due to the use of artificial colouring agents is another serious finding. This is a direct threat to public health,” he said.
The Health Minister assured that the department would intensify its food and drugs assessment across the state. “We will be drawing legal samples and sending them for further thorough assessments. We will not hesitate to file cases against the companies, irrespective of whether they are local or national brands. Public health is our top priority,” he said.
The Health Department has urged the consumers to be aware about the risks involved in purchasing packaged water, especially from roadside vendors.
“While the results of other ongoing assessments are yet to come, these initial findings are a wake-up call. We urge the public to be vigilant while buying packaged water, especially from unverified sources,” Minister Gundu Rao cautioned.
The Karnataka Health Department is also proactively testing samples of ghee and paneer.
