Nestlé Waters has announced that it has adopted a new technical solution to ensure the continuity of production at the Perrier site in Vergèze, in the French department of Gard. The decision comes after the prefecture issued a formal notice on May 7, ordering the group to stop using the microfiltration system, which it deemed non-compliant with the regulations governing the bottling of natural mineral water.
The system in question, according to the authorities, would alter the essential characteristics of mineral water, compromising its original purity, a fundamental requirement for maintaining the classification of "natural mineral water". In response to this dispute, Nestlé Waters said it had identified an alternative solution that would allow it to comply with regulatory requirements, without compromising the safety and quality of the product.
The new technical dossier was filed today, July 4, with the competent authorities, accompanied by a formal request for authorization to continue operations on the site. The Swiss group, owner of the Perrier brand, says it is confident in the solidity of the new approach, which is said to be the result of in-depth technical and scientific studies.
The case is part of a broader scandal that has affected the mineral water sector in France, with several investigations and checks underway at other bottling sites. Perrier, a historic brand and symbol of sparkling water worldwide, represents a strategic asset for Nestlé Waters, both in terms of production and image.
The company reiterated its commitment to transparent and responsible management of water resources, ensuring full cooperation with health and environmental authorities. Now the ball is in the prefecture's court, which will have to examine the new project and decide whether to grant authorization, thus avoiding the suspension of production activity.
