Recommendations for purchasing bottled water issuing from Rospotrebnadzor
Got Questions About That Bottle of Water? Here's What You Need to Check
Let's face it, not every bottled water is created equal, so it pays to be a label-savvy consumer. Here are the critical aspects you should focus on:
- Secure Seal
- You wouldn't want your water contaminated, would you? An airtight seal guarantees that your water stays pure and free from harmful germs, especially during long storage or when exposed to various environments.
- Labeling Transparency
- In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces specific labeling requirements. This includes the type of water, FDA-mandated standards, ingredient listings, and nutrition facts when necessary.
- Besides regulations, labels should give you a clear picture of the water's origin, mineral content, and treatment processes - valuable information for individuals with specific health needs or preferences.
- Identification Codes
- Need to trace your water bottle back to its production roots? Identification codes like batch numbers or lot numbers help with that, making it easier for both consumers and regulatory bodies to investigate quality control issues or initiate recalls when necessary.
- Proper identification codes also hold manufacturers accountable for their products.
What to Look for When Checking
- Seal Inspection
- Check for any visible signs of damage, leakage, or a loose cap.
- Label Analysis
- Make sure the label shows the water type (e.g., spring, purified, mineral) and any relevant certifications.
- Check for mineral content information and look out for statements like "low mineral content" or "high mineral content."
- Find the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor.
- Code Verification
- Check for a batch number or lot number on the label.
- Take note of any expiration or "best-by" dates if provided.
Pro Tips
- Routine Checks: Quality-conscious companies like the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) require annual plant inspections by independent third-party organizations to maintain compliance with quality standards.
- NSF Certification: While not compulsory, obtaining NSF certification demonstrates a commitment to quality and purity, involving extensive testing for contaminants.
When assessing bottled water, remember to check for a secure seal that is airtight to prevent contamination. Furthermore, pay attention to the label's transparency, as it should provide details about the water type, origin, mineral content, and treatment processes, adhering to FDA regulations. Additionally, look for identification codes such as batch numbers or lot numbers for easy tracing and quality control purposes. During your inspection, verify the seal, analyze the label, and check for code validity to ensure the highest quality of food-and-drink, fitting your lifestyle, and being mindful of your home-and-garden preferences.
