Two-thirds of bottled water samples unsafe for drinking, finds Health Department

“As part of a special campaign in February 2025, 296 drinking water bottle samples were collected for analysis. We have tested a significant number of mineral water samples, and the results are deeply concerning. While 95 samples have been found unsafe, and 88 were substandard. This is unacceptable when it comes to a basic necessity like drinking water,” Rao said at a press conference.

“The affected brands include some well-known names as well, said the minister who added the action will be taken against the companies. While the unsafe samples showed signs of both chemical and microbial contamination, many also had low mineral content, which could lead to health complications,” the minister said.

This comes after a recent survey by the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department revealed that only 72 out of 255 bottled water samples tested were safe for consumption.