The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) classifies drinking/mineral water under the ‘high-risk’ food category, mandating annual third-party food safety audits. The move is effective immediately following an order dated November 29, 2024, and central license holders in this category must now submit to annual inspections aimed at mitigating potential health risks associated with packaged water production. The mineral water as a high-risk food due to its susceptibility to contamination during sourcing, processing, and packaging. This classification emphasizes the need for stringent safety standards to protect public health.
The present order states: “Consequent to the omission of sub-regulation which pertains to mandatory Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for certain food products, it has been decided that packaged drinking water and mineral water (for which BIS certification was mandatory prior) will be treated under high-risk food categories. It is to be noted that other food products for which BIS certification was mandatory are already identified as high-risk.”
What is Mineral Water?
Mineral water is natural water enriched with essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. It is often bottled with minimal processing, making it prone to environmental and microbial contamination.
Why is Mineral Water High-Risk According to FSSAI?
FSSAI identifies mineral water as high-risk due to:
1. Microbial Contamination
- Contamination from pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, or Vibrio cholerae can occur at source or during bottling.
- Insufficient sterilization of bottles and equipment increases contamination risks.
2. Chemical Contamination
- Heavy metals (e.g., arsenic, lead) and nitrates may enter water from the surrounding environment.
- Leaching of harmful chemicals from packaging, especially under improper storage, poses additional risks.
3. Poor Storage and Handling
- Inappropriate storage conditions, such as exposure to heat or sunlight, may degrade water quality or allow microbial growth.
FSSAI Guidelines for Mineral Water Safety
FSSAI has established robust standards to minimize risks:
- Water Source Certification: Sources must meet purity criteria and be free from pollutants.
- Testing Protocols: Mandatory microbiological and chemical testing ensures compliance with safety thresholds.
- Packaging Standards: Use of food-grade, non-toxic materials with proper sealing to prevent contamination.
- Licensing and Monitoring: All manufacturers must obtain FSSAI licenses and adhere to hygiene practices under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations.
Consumer Tips for Safety
- Purchase mineral water only from FSSAI-approved brands.
- Check the expiry date and ensure proper storage (cool and shaded conditions).
- Avoid bottles with damaged seals or exposed to extreme heat.
Conclusion
FSSAI’s classification of mineral water as a high-risk food underscores the importance of compliance with safety standards to prevent health hazards. By following FSSAI guidelines, manufacturers and consumers alike can mitigate risks and enjoy the benefits of clean, safe drinking water.
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