French Court Rules in Favor of Perrier Amid Controversy

A French court dismissed a case against Perrier, brought by consumer group UFC-Que Choisir, over claims of deceptive marketing as 'natural' water. The court found insufficient evidence of health risks. Perrier's microfiltration awaits local authority approval amid ongoing controversies surrounding water treatment.

In a significant legal victory for Perrier, a court in France has dismissed the case spearheaded by the consumer organization UFC-Que Choisir. The group had lobbied for a recall of Perrier bottles, alleging deceptive marketing practices that presented the water as 'natural.'

The Nanterre court decision stated that there was a lack of compelling evidence of either immediate health risks or legal violations that would require stringent measures. As a result, Perrier's current sales practices continue unimpeded, and UFC-Que Choisir has been instructed to cover Nestle's legal expenses.

This ruling comes amid broader scrutiny over Perrier's treatment processes, with Nestle ceasing certain techniques and awaiting approval for its new microfiltration method. Sales for Nestle Waters reached 2.4 billion Swiss francs, highlighting the division's modest share of the company's portfolio.

(With inputs from agencies.)