FSSAI Cracks Down on Misbranded Alkaline Water in Gujarat

The FSSAI has taken legal action against a Gujarat-based producer of alkaline water for misbranding, labeling violations, and using a forbidden ingredient, following consumer complaints and an inspection. Fulvic acid was found unlawfully in the product, prompting seizures and formal proceedings under safety regulations.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched enforcement action against a Gujarat-based manufacturer of 'alkaline water' following inspections that revealed misbranding and the use of unauthorized ingredients, the regulator announced on Thursday.

The FSSAI's western regional office initiated the action after a consumer lodged a complaint via the Food Safety Connect portal. Inspectors discovered multiple violations, including a missing product name on the front packaging, lack of ingredient declarations, and visible black particles inside the product.

Further analysis revealed more concerns like unexplained discolouration and sediment presence. Authorities seized stock worth about Rs 31.61 lakh and began formal proceedings under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, after confirming fulvic acid, a banned substance, was used in the product.