The Western Regional Office of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) took enforcement measures after a consumer complaint was lodged through the Food Safety Connect portal.
An official statement released on May 7 noted that the complaint accused the Food Business Operator (FBO) of neglecting consumer issues, which led to a post-license inspection at the company’s manufacturing site in Savli, Vadodara, Gujarat.
During the inspection, officials identified numerous discrepancies in the product’s packaging and quality parameters. These included the lack of the product name on the front panel, missing ingredient declarations, and the presence of visible black particles in the finished product.
Regulatory officials also noted unexplained blackish-brown coloration and sediments in the product, as well as inconsistencies between the primary and secondary packaging descriptions.
Given the severity of the findings, authorities seized stocks worth approximately ₹31.61 lakh and initiated proceedings under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006.
Subsequent laboratory tests confirmed the presence of fulvic acid, which is not permitted under current FSSAI regulations for such products. Investigators discovered that this substance originated from added black mineral material rather than being naturally present in the source or processed water.
The regulator stated that this constituted a “clear violation” of established food safety standards.
This action occurs in the context of increasing consumer interest in premium hydration products, including alkaline and mineral-enhanced water, a category that is rapidly expanding in urban markets due to rising health-conscious trends.
However, industry experts indicate that the sector is also facing greater regulatory scrutiny due to bold health claims, changing standards, and concerns about product composition and labeling transparency.
Under India’s food safety regulations, manufacturers of packaged drinking water are required to comply with stringent norms regarding ingredient disclosure, product claims, permissible additives, and labeling declarations.
FSSAI emphasized its commitment to ensuring that food products marketed are safe, properly labeled, and in compliance with legal standards.
In recent years, the regulator has ramped up surveillance and enforcement efforts across packaged food and beverage categories, particularly where products are promoted with wellness-related claims or specialized health benefits.
(Edited by : Prashant)
First Published: May 7, 2026 3:37 PM IST
