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The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) recently conducted a targeted food surveillance project to assess the microbiological quality in bottled water. The results were all satisfactory.
The CFS collected 60 samples in August and September this year from supermarkets, convenience stores, groceries, department stores and food factories for microbiological analysis.
The samples included bottled natural mineral water and bottled drinking water such as distilled water and artificial mineralised water from local and overseas production plants. The CFS also collected samples of different bottle volumes which included carboys of drinking water for water dispensers. The examinations conducted included indicators of microbiological quality, such as E. Coli and total coliform bacteria.
Despite the satisfactory results, the spokesman reminded members of the public today (October 25) to buy bottled water from reliable shops, and avoid buying or drinking expired bottled water as well as those improperly sealed or with damaged packaging. Bottled water should be consumed as soon as possible after it is opened.
He also reminded the trade to ensure that the products were fit for consumption and to source bottled water from reliable production plants.
"Bottled water manufacturers should maintain good environmental hygiene in the production plants, transport vehicles and warehouses. They should also observe good hygienic practices along all processes of production, transport and storage," he added.
Ends/Monday, October 25, 2010
Issued at HKT 11:04
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