The government has disallowed production by over 200 bottled water plants, including those of popular brands like Bisleri, Kingfisher and Coca-Cola's Kinley, due to violation of revised pesticide norms or unsatisfactory performance.
"Around 213 units which have either not submitted test report conforming to the new norms, or are performing below the laid-down quality standards have been issued 'stop-marking' order and can therefore not manufacture bottled water," BIS sources told PTI in New Delhi.
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They said the units debarred from using 'ISI mark' and thus not allowed to produce bottled water include at least three which are manufacturing and selling the Kinley brand, eight (Bisleri) and two (Kingfisher).
When contacted, Consumer Affairs Minister Sharad Yadav confirmed the action taken and said: "There will be no compromise on quality and human health. Companies not meeting the laid-down norms will not be spared."
Sources said 'stop marking' order has been issued against Hindustan Coca Cola Beverages in Guwahati, Narmada Drinks, Bilaspur and Brahmanand Mineral Water, Jamshedpur -- all of Kinley brand. The action has also been taken against two manufacturers of Kingfisher brand, Fantastic Aqua Products, Satara and King Aqua, Guwahati.
Of the 1018 licences issued, only 802 units deposited samples in line with the new norms. The 'stop-marking order' has been imposed on 158 units due to non-submission of test report on pesticide residues. It has also been imposed on another 55 units on grounds of unsatisfactory performance.