Bengaluru: As temperatures spike across Karnataka, grabbing a chilled bottle of water or enjoying a frozen treat might seem like the perfect way to beat the heat — but alarming new reports suggest these coolers may be anything but safe.
A recent drive by the Food Safety and Drugs Administration (FSDA) revealed that 72% of bottled water samples collected statewide failed safety standards. Of 255 samples tested out of 296 collected in February, only 72 were deemed safe. The remaining were found to contain chemical contaminants like fluoride, pesticide residues, and excessive calcium, raising serious public health concerns.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao confirmed that nearly 99% of the unsafe water samples came from local, unregulated brands. Legal action is being initiated against violators.
But the issue doesn’t end with water. A New Indian Express investigation exposed rampant violations in local ice cream, ice candy, and cool drink production units. Inspections of 220 shops resulted in 97 formal notices and warnings to several others.
Shockingly, some units were caught using detergent powder to mimic creamy textures in ice creams and phosphoric acid to increase fizz in soft drinks — the latter known to negatively impact bone health. A fine of ₹38,000 has been imposed on non-compliant vendors.
Consumers are now urged to be vigilant and opt for FSSAI-certified brands as the government tightens inspections to ensure safer summer refreshers.
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