Nestlé Faces Scrutiny Over Perrier Water Filtration Practices
Nestlé is under increased regulatory pressure following accusations from French authorities regarding transparency issues in the filtration process of its iconic Perrier brand. The French customs office recently issued a formal notice criticizing the food and beverage giant for failing to disclose water treatment methods used on what is marketed as natural mineral water—a designation with strict legal protections in the EU.
According to French law, mineral water must be bottled at the source and remain untouched by chemical treatments. Nestlé reportedly employed ultraviolet disinfection and activated carbon filtration to address contamination risks in its Perrier spring, particularly after extreme weather events and human activity were found to be affecting water quality.
This practice, which Nestlé says was necessary to maintain product safety, has raised questions about the integrity of its natural mineral water claims. Although the company stated it had informed authorities in 2021 and ceased the treatment process in early 2023 under new legal guidance, regulators argue the disclosures lacked sufficient detail and timeliness. The notice calls attention to inconsistencies in Nestlé’s filings with customs and sanitary authorities.
This issue is not isolated. Nestlé also halted similar treatments at its other French natural mineral water brands, including Vittel and Hépar, highlighting systemic concerns across its portfolio. These developments could have broader implications for the premium bottled water segment, where ‘natural’ and ‘source purity’ remain pivotal selling points and justify higher price tags.
Industry analysts are closely watching how this dispute impacts consumer trust and future regulatory oversight. France remains a significant market for premium bottled waters, with strict guidelines managed by the General Directorate for Health. A loss of mineral water status can have major consequences for brand positioning and export potential, especially in markets that demand clarity around sourcing and sustainability practices.
Nestlé has reiterated its commitment to local water stewardship and compliance, asserting that product quality and safety remain uncompromised. As authorities continue their investigation, the outcome may set precedents for labeling, treatment disclosure, and marketing standards in the bottled water category—potentially influencing strategies across the entire FMCG beverage sector.