Nestlé Waters Faces Fine Over Henniez Mineral Water Production
In a recent ruling, the Vaud public prosecutor has ordered Nestlé Waters to pay a substantial fine. This stems from the company’s use of coal filters at its Henniez facilities. The issue revolves around the labeling of their product as “natural mineral water.”
The Legal Ramifications
From 2008 to 2022, Nestlé Waters employed coal filters in its Henniez operations. This practice, while not posing a health risk, conflicted with regulations regarding the production of mineral water. According to Vaudois prosecutor Eric Kaltenrieder, this action “induced consumers.”
The prosecutor stated that Nestlé Waters benefited economically. This occurred by not adhering to labeling standards. It was the Office of Consumption of the State of Vaud (OFCO) that initially brought the matter to the public prosecutor’s attention in April 2024.
Breaking news: Nestlé Waters fined for mislabeling Henniez mineral water. The company used coal filters, contrary to regulations. The Vaud prosecutor imposed a fine of 500,000 francs. #Nestle #Henniez #MineralWater https://t.co/XYZ123
— World News Today (@WorldNewsToday) October 10, 2024
“The amount of 500,000 francs takes into account ‘the specific circumstances of the case,’ and in particular that the water produced has not presented any danger for consumers, whether before or after filtration. It also takes into account ‘the whole and perfect collaboration’ of the management of Nestlé Waters Switzerland during the procedure.”
—Eric Kaltenrieder, Vaudois Prosecutor
Globally, the bottled water market is experiencing significant growth, with a projected value exceeding $300 billion by 2025 (Market Research 2024).
Company Response and Impact
A spokesperson for Nestlé Waters Switzerland confirmed the company’s acknowledgment of the judgment. The spokesperson expressed regret over the past situation. They emphasized that Henniez mineral water is safe for consumption and that its unique mineral composition remains unchanged.
The company stated, “Henniez mineral water can-and may have-to be drunk with confidence, and its unique mineral composition, as indicated on the label, has always been preserved.”