Unveiling a Pandora’s Box: Investigation by Le Monde and Radio France. Suspicions and Deception: How brands disguise the true origin of water.
Contaminated Sources and Violations
Water Disinfection: Scandalous processing methods used by major brands. Questioning Purity: Vittel, Contrex, and Perrier waters under suspicion.
Nestlé Waters in the Spotlight
Giant Dollar Business: Nestlé Waters under investigation for suspected fraud. Scope of Influence: How the scandal affects one-third of the bottled water market in France.
Government Support and Violation of European Rules
Reports suggest that the Macron government was aware of illegal actions since at least 2021, while Nestlé Waters altered quality reports to avoid fines. Non-governmental organization Foodwatch filed a complaint for “fraud,” urging sanctions. Environmentalists called on the EU Commission to initiate an “independent investigation” against the French government for “violation of European rules.”
Real Numbers and Entanglements
The investigation revealed that at least 30% of French brands used filtration methods that did not meet requirements. Reports note that manufacturers actively concealed prohibited methods, even hiding the production in electrical cabins on the premises.
Nestlé Admits “Mistakes”
In response to accusations, Nestlé Waters President, Muriel Lienau, admitted “mistakes.” She acknowledged the use of protective measures that did not comply with standards, citing climate change affecting spring water.
Political Factor and Secret Solutions
Under public scrutiny, Nestlé Waters reportedly not only used prohibited methods but also approached the government to continue their use, thus securing the salvation of millions of jobs. The dark secrets of diplomacy, when the Paris government allowed unacceptable methods, remained in the shadows.
Reforms and Business Closures
In response to public pressure, Nestlé decided to stop using activated charcoal and ultraviolet light, closing four facilities in France. However, this is just the first step towards rebuilding consumer trust and restoring the industry’s reputation.
The mineral water scandal in France has exposed systemic issues in the industry, demanding immediate changes. The lessons learned from this crisis should serve as a starting point for reforms and a commitment to a more transparent and responsible bottled water industry in the future
Nestlé Waters
Nestlé Waters, part of the Swiss conglomerate Nestlé, is a major global producer of bottled water. It was founded in 1992, but the company’s involvement in the bottled water industry goes back further.
In 1976, Nestlé acquired the French company Perrier, a leading mineral water producer worldwide. This marked Nestlé’s initial foray into the bottled water industry. Over time, the company acquired several other water producers, including Poland Spring (USA), San Pellegrino (Italy), Vittel (France), and others.
Nestlé Waters focuses on a diverse portfolio of water brands, offering consumers a variety of products, including mineral water, natural spring water, and sourced water. The company actively engages in sustainable water resource management and adheres to principles of responsible water use.
Emphasizing various brands, Nestlé Waters operates globally, with manufacturing plants and offices in different regions. The company strives for innovation in packaging, environmental sustainability, and high-quality products.
Subscribe
TRANSFER SERVICE IN ITALY
Malpensa Airport – Milan – from € 90.-
Como – Milan – from € 90.-
Bergamo – Milan – from € 90.-
Lugano – Milan – from € 140.-
Fiumicino Airport – Rome – from € 70.-
Ciampino Airport – Rome – from € 70.-
Civitavecchia – Rome – from € 150.-
Milan – Rome – from € 900.-
