Nestlé Assures Customers Amid Mineral Water Investigations

In light of recent investigations regarding the improper treatment of mineral water in France, Nestlé has sought to reassure its customers in Germany that there is no cause for concern. According to a spokesperson for the company, no natural mineral water sourced from French production is sold in Germany. The brands available in the German market, including San Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, remain unaffected by these issues.

The French Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) conducted searches at Nestlé's facilities near Paris as part of the ongoing investigation. Nestlé Waters has acknowledged these inspections and expressed regret over the situation, committing to take corrective measures under the guidance of regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with established production standards.

The investigations were initiated following a complaint lodged by the consumer rights organization Foodwatch in February. This complaint highlighted longstanding concerns regarding Nestlé's mineral water brands, including Perrier, Hépar, Contrex, and Vittel. Allegations suggest that spring water, which did not meet safety requirements at times, was improperly filtered and sold as natural mineral water.

During a recent hearing in the French Parliament, Nestlé's CEO expressed his regret and confirmed that the company has acted to rectify the practices that have been questioned. Currently, there is no formal indictment against the company.

Foodwatch has described the situation as a serious case of fraud, demanding transparency regarding the accountability of both Nestlé and the regulatory bodies involved. The organization's German director, Chris Methmann, has stated that the world's largest food corporation has filtered water from contaminated sources illegally and marketed it as natural, raising significant health concerns.

As Nestlé navigates this challenging situation, it remains committed to ensuring that its products meet safety and quality standards, while also maintaining consumer trust in its brands.