French Government at centre of Perrier water scandal
A new report released by the senate discovered that Swiss food giant Nestlé, who acquired the brand in the early 90s, had used filtering treatments which were not authorised for 'natural mineral water' products.
The revelation highlights Nestlé and the French Government's lack of transparency towards local and European authorities, the report stated. The French government have found themselves in the centre of a huge scandal after it was revealed they covered up the illegal filtering treatments of premium brands such as Perrier. Pic: VINCENT FEURAY/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images
Here's what we know…
The report, which was released on Monday, came following more than 70 hearings over a six-month-long inquiry by the Senate.
In the report, it was revealed that the concealment had been first addressed in October 2021 during a meeting on natural mineral waters.
The senate said the 'highest levels' of the French Government were aware of the filtering treatments but failed to act on the matter.
The office of President Emmanuel Macron was also aware of the 'cheating' since 'at least' 2022, according to the report.
The President has since denied any knowledge of the scandal. The office of President Emmanuel Macron was also aware of the 'cheating' since 'at least' 2022, according to the report. Pic: LEON NEAL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
While there is no proven health risk to consumers, senators noted that they had still been misled as a result of the lack of transparency.
The Guardian explains that there are strict EU regulations on the treatment of water marketed as 'natural mineral water.'
The water cannot be disinfected or treated in a way which modify its characteristics. These methods are typically used on tap water. Nestlé Waters, earlier this year, confirmed they had used banned filters but defended the safety of their products. They added that they were always transparent to the authorities and never put pressure on the government. Pic: VINCENT FEURAY/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images
Nestlé Waters, earlier this year, confirmed they had used banned filters but defended the safety of their products. They added that they were always transparent to the authorities and never put pressure on the government.
In a statement to Politico, they said the use of the treatment methods in the past was due to 'sporadic bacterial or chemical contamination' which was caused by 'faecal contaminations.'
The organisation paid a €2m fine in order to avoid legal action.
A complaint has been filed against the company by Foodwatch (a European advocacy group focusing on the protection of consumer rights in relation to food quality).
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