Is Bottled Water Really Safe? FSSAI Declares Packaged Drinking Water As ‘High Risk Food Category’ – So What Are the Alternatives?
In a world where convenience often trumps caution, bottled water has become a staple for many. But is it as safe as we think? On World Water Day, experts are sounding the alarm about the hidden dangers of packaged water, urging consumers to rethink their daily hydration habits.
The High-Risk Label
In December 2024, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) made a groundbreaking move by categorizing packaged drinking water and mineral water as a ‘High-Risk Food Category.’ This classification, which also includes dairy, meat, and ready-to-eat foods, mandates stricter quality controls, annual facility inspections, and third-party food safety audits. The goal? To curb contamination and protect consumers from potential health hazards.
The Plastic Problem
A 2024 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences revealed shocking findings: bottled water contains 10 to 100 times more plastic particles than previously estimated. Researchers discovered an average of 240,000 plastic particles per liter, with 90% being nanoplastics—tiny particles invisible even under a microscope. These nanoplastics can infiltrate the digestive tract, lungs, and bloodstream, distributing harmful chemicals throughout the body.
Dr. Sherri Mason, director of sustainability at Penn State Behrend, emphasized the importance of switching to tap water stored in glass or stainless steel containers. “This advice extends to other foods and drinks packaged in plastic as well,” she told CNN.
Marketing Myths vs. Reality
Packaged water brands often tout health benefits, from mineral-rich formulas to alkaline and black alkaline water. However, experts caution that these claims are largely marketing tactics. Tanya Sahni, a nutritionist, notes, “While some brands do contain minerals, their benefits rarely surpass those of clean, regular water.”
Shalu Nijhawan, a holistic nutritionist, warns against falling for premium branding. “Labels like ‘Himalayan water’ or ‘pure mineral water’ are often just gimmicks. Most of this water is processed and repackaged,” she says.
How to Stay Safe – Alternatives
To minimize risks, experts recommend:
- Carrying reusable water bottles made of glass or stainless steel.
- Opting for glass bottles if purchasing packaged water.
- Avoiding plastic bottles exposed to high temperatures, as heat can release harmful chemicals like BPA, linked to cancer, diabetes, and heart problems.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Brands are encouraged to explore sustainable packaging options such as glass, aluminum cans, tetra packs, and biodegradable materials like bamboo. These alternatives not only reduce health risks but also address the environmental toll of plastic waste.
As the conversation around bottled water evolves, one thing is clear: convenience shouldn’t come at the cost of our health. By making informed choices, we can protect ourselves and the planet.
