In a groundbreaking move, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reclassified packaged drinking water and mineral water as a high-risk food category, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety standards. This decision has significant implications not only for regular packaged water but also for other types of water, such as alkaline water and their associated brands. Let’s explore how this impacts various types of drinking water and what it means for businesses and consumers.
Types of Packaged Water and Their Unique Characteristics
- Mineral Water
- Source: Naturally sourced from underground springs or wells, mineral water is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
- Processing: It undergoes minimal treatment to preserve its natural mineral content.
- Concerns: Improper sourcing or contamination during packaging can compromise its quality.
- Packaged Drinking Water
- Source: Regular water treated through processes like reverse osmosis (RO), UV filtration, and ozonation.
- Processing: It is purified to meet safety standards but lacks the natural minerals found in mineral water.
- Concerns: Poor filtration or bottling practices may lead to microbial or chemical contamination.
- Alkaline Water
- Source: Produced by ionizing regular water to increase its pH level, making it more alkaline (above 7.5).
- Benefits: Claimed to neutralize acid in the body, improve hydration, and provide antioxidants.
- Concerns: Misleading claims or inadequate quality control can affect its credibility.
Major Alkaline Water Brands in India
Several brands have made a name in the alkaline water segment, appealing to health-conscious consumers:- Booster Water
- Known for its pH-balanced alkaline water and focus on promoting hydration and wellness.
- Offers a variety of packaging sizes suitable for individual and family consumption.
- Evocus
- A premium black alkaline water brand enriched with natural minerals and antioxidants.
- Markets itself as a wellness drink for fitness enthusiasts and professionals.
- Vedica by Bisleri
- A blend of Himalayan spring water with naturally occurring alkaline properties.
- Trusted for its purity and premium quality.
- Qua
- Specializes in alkaline water with a focus on hydration and improved pH balance.
- Popular among urban consumers seeking healthier alternatives.
- True Unity Alkaline Water
- A newer entrant offering ionized water with added health benefits.
- Focuses on eco-friendly packaging and sustainability.
Impact of FSSAI’s Reclassification on Different Water Types
Mineral Water
- Challenges: Brands need to prove the authenticity of their sources and ensure no adulteration during bottling.
- Opportunities: Trusted brands can enhance their premium positioning by highlighting their adherence to FSSAI standards.
Packaged Drinking Water
- Challenges: Producers must invest in advanced purification and testing facilities to meet stricter guidelines.
- Opportunities: Companies that consistently deliver quality can gain consumer trust and loyalty.
Alkaline Water
- Challenges: Alkaline water brands will face increased scrutiny over their pH claims and mineral content.
- Opportunities: Compliance with high-risk food standards can help position alkaline water as a credible and beneficial product in the wellness market.
Consumer Benefits Across Water Categories
For consumers, the reclassification translates to:- Mineral Water: Access to safer and authentically sourced products.
- Packaged Drinking Water: Better assurance of purity and safety in everyday use.
- Alkaline Water: Confidence in health claims and quality, encouraging more informed purchases.
Businesses: Adapting to the New Regulations
Steps for Compliance
- Advanced Testing: Brands need to invest in state-of-the-art labs to ensure microbial, chemical, and pH levels meet FSSAI guidelines.
- Transparent Labeling: Clear labeling of mineral content, pH levels, and water source to build consumer trust.
- Traceability Systems: Robust mechanisms to identify and address contamination at any stage of production.
Marketing Opportunities
- Highlight compliance with FSSAI’s high-risk food standards as a marker of superior quality.
- Educate consumers about the unique benefits of their water type, such as mineral-rich content or alkaline pH levels.
