Background on Nestlé and Perrier
Nestlé, a multinational food and beverage corporation, is one of the world’s largest producers of bottled water, including the popular mineral water brand Perrier. Perrier is renowned for its distinctive taste and carbonation, making it a sought-after product in the global market. However, recent developments have brought increased scrutiny to Nestlé’s water production practices.
Gard Department’s Decision
The Gard department, located in southern France, has authorized Nestlé to continue using two of the wells that supply water for Perrier. However, the department has also requested enhanced security and quality controls amid growing concerns about mineral water production under challenging environmental conditions.
Additional Study and Security Measures
Nestlé had submitted a new authorization request in the northern hemisphere’s summer, following changes to its bottled water filtration system. The Gard authorities determined that Nestlé must submit an additional study within the next 12 months on the impact of filtration on the water’s microbiota, according to a Friday statement.
Moreover, the authorities requested reinforced water safety checks for a two-year period, after which Nestlé must submit a water quality review.
Discontinued Use of Three Wells
Three additional wells that Nestlé had ceased using will no longer be able to produce Perrier mineral water.
Nestlé’s Response
A Nestlé Waters France spokesperson acknowledged the local authorities’ decision, stating that it recognizes the hard work of their teams over the past four years to modernize facilities, adapt to growing environmental challenges, strengthen their commitment to protecting resources, and respond flexibly to market changes and consumer expectations.
Increased Scrutiny on Water Treatment Practices
Perrier has faced intense scrutiny for months after French media reported last year that the brand and many other mineral water producers had been using illegal water treatment methods to avoid contamination. Nestlé opted for microfiltration, which they consider safe and does not alter the water’s mineral composition.
At the request of local authorities, Nestlé removed a 0.2-micron microfiltration device in July and replaced it with a 0.45-micron device.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue at hand? The French department of Gard has imposed new conditions on Nestlé for Perrier mineral water production, focusing on enhanced security and quality controls.
- Why are these conditions being imposed? The decision comes amid growing concerns about mineral water production under challenging environmental conditions and following reports of illegal water treatment practices.
- What changes has Nestlé implemented? Nestlé replaced a 0.2-micron microfiltration device with a 0.45-micron device at the request of local authorities.
- What are the new requirements for Nestlé? Nestlé must submit an additional study on filtration’s impact on water microbiota within 12 months and reinforce water safety checks for two years, followed by a water quality review.
- How many wells can Nestlé still use for Perrier production? Nestlé can continue using two wells, but three others that were previously abandoned cannot produce Perrier mineral water.
