Mineral water withdrawal due to germination concerns
In a significant development, Roxane GmbH, a leading mineral water bottler, has initiated a recall of its brands "Gut & Günstig" and "Naturalis" due to the detection of bacterial contamination [1][2]. The recall affects various varieties and pack sizes of the aforementioned products, primarily sold through Edeka, Marktkauf, and Netto Marken-Discount nationwide, excluding Saarland [1][3].
The decision to recall the product was made following routine checks that revealed the presence of bacteria in the water. Consumption of the product is strongly discouraged due to potential health impairments [1][2]. The specific bacteria causing the contamination have not yet been disclosed, with ongoing investigations or the need for accurate public health communications likely being the reason for this omission [2].
The recall affects almost all federal states in Germany, indicating a widespread distribution of the contaminated water [1]. The exact source of the contamination has not been explicitly stated, but typical sources in such cases often involve issues with water treatment processes, handling, or environmental factors [1][3].
Roxane GmbH was initially unavailable for a statement, but the recall was announced by the website lebensmittelwarnung.de and the consumer organization Foodwatch [1]. Foodwatch has drawn parallels to a mineral water scandal in France involving the Alma Group, which owns Roxane [3].
Consumers are advised to check their purchases for the affected products and return them to the point of purchase for a refund. It is crucial to avoid consuming the contaminated water to prevent potential health risks [3]. For more detailed information, consumers can contact Roxane GmbH directly or check the official recall notices on relevant government or company websites [3].
Foodwatch has called on Roxane and German food authorities to make all information about the recall public, including test results from Roxane's wells in Germany [3]. The affected trading companies have reacted promptly and immediately removed the product from sale [1].
In summary, while specific details about the type of bacteria and the source of contamination are not yet available, the recall is significant and affects a wide area, emphasizing the importance of vigilance by consumers and retailers to ensure public safety. Further updates on this developing story will be shared as more information becomes available.
- The recall of Roxane GmbH's water brands, "Gut & Günstig" and "Naturalis," was prompted due to bacterial contamination detected during routine checks, posing potential health impairments.
- The health-and-wellness sector and general-news outlets have reported that the recall affects nearly all federal states in Germany, indicating a widespread distribution of the contaminated water.
- Certain food-and-drink companies, such as Edeka, Marktkauf, and Netto Marken-Discount, have removed the affected products from their shelves, and consumers are advised to check their purchases and return them for a refund to prevent potential health risks.
- Foodwatch, a consumer organization, has urged Roxane GmbH and German food authorities to release all information regarding the recall, including the type of bacteria causing the contamination and test results from Roxane's wells in Germany, for transparency and effective public health communication.
