22 Dec 2025
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has released an important regulatory update concerning Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water in India. The notification outlines new rigorous water testing compliance aimed at ensuring safety and quality standards for consumers.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a formal directive introducing a new Scheme of Testing for Packaged Drinking Water (PDW) and Mineral Water (MW) to ensure continued safety and regulatory compliance in the Indian market.
The directive follows FSSAI’s earlier decision to remove the requirement of mandatory BIS certification for Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water. To maintain safety standards, FSSAI has now prescribed a detailed testing and compliance framework applicable to all Food Business Operators (FBOs).
📅 Effective Date
The Scheme of Testing will be mandatory from 01 January 2026.
🔍 Key Highlights of the Notification
Mandatory periodic testing of Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water
Testing to be conducted only through FSSAI-notified NABL accredited laboratories
Defined testing frequency for microbiological, chemical, pesticide residue, and packaging parameters
Strict provisions for source water testing, especially in case of change of water source
Enhanced compliance requirements for packaging materials, including bottles, pouches, cartons, and cans
Clear corrective actions and record-keeping obligations in case of non-compliance
🧑⚖️ Compliance Implications for FBOs
All manufacturers and packers of Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water are required to:
Maintain batch-wise test records
Ensure compliance with Food Safety and Standards Regulations
Follow Schedule IV (GMP & Hygiene) requirements
Increase testing frequency in case of non-compliance
Inform the Food Authority immediately in case of critical safety failures such as radioactive contamination
Non-compliance may attract risk-based inspections and regulatory action.
📌 Why This Update Is Important
With the removal of BIS certification, this Scheme of Testing becomes the primary compliance mechanism to safeguard consumer health and ensure uniform quality standards across the sector.
Food businesses involved in water packaging are advised to review their internal testing schedules and documentation systems well before the effective date.
Reference:
This update is based on an official notification issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Click here to view official FSSAI document