Thailand's New Definition of Natural Mineral Water Shakes Up the Industry

On October 15, 2024, the Ministry of Health of Thailand officially issued consultation document No. 454, which aims to introduce a series of important amendments to the existing Natural mineral water food law. These amendments will take effect 180 days after publication in the Official Gazette. The main contents of this revision include the following aspects:

First, the definition of natural mineral water has been revised to make it clear that the revised definition will no longer include water that comes from natural sources but has been artificially treated. This means that only mineral water that fully meets the new definition can be recognized as natural mineral water.

Secondly, the five types of natural mineral water are defined in detail, so that consumers and producers can more clearly identify and distinguish different types of mineral water. These definitions will help regulate the market and ensure that consumers have access to products that meet the standards.

Third, the quality requirements of natural mineral water are clearly stipulated. The revision emphasizes that improving the quality of natural mineral water must be carried out in the area where the mineral water is loaded and must not alter important compounds in the mineral water. This regulation aims to ensure that the natural properties and health benefits of mineral water are not destroyed.

Fourth, new regulations have been made on the mineral content contained in natural mineral water. For example, manganese content should not exceed 2mg/L, barium content should not exceed 1mg/L, and selenium content should not exceed 0.05mg/L. These new regulations are designed to ensure that consumers consume minerals within safe limits that meet human needs without posing health risks.

Fifth, the limits of detected pollutants are required. The revised regulations stipulate that nitrite content should not exceed 0.02mg/L and bromide should not exceed 10ug/L. These limit requirements help to reduce the potential threat of pollutants to consumer health.

Sixth, the microbiological requirements are strictly regulated. The revised regulations require that harmful microorganisms such as E. coli, coliform and Pseudomonas aeruginosa should not be detected in every 250ml of natural mineral water. This regulation helps to ensure the safety of drinking for consumers and prevent health problems caused by microbial contamination.

Seventh, revised production standards. Producers and sellers of natural mineral water must comply with the Ministry of Health notification on methods of production, use and storage of food. For example, the use of ultraviolet disinfection and other methods, but must not affect the water quality. At the same time, manufacturers must take measures to prevent environmental pollution and ensure the sustainability and environmental protection of the production process.

Finally, the labeling requirements were revised. The label must show the type of natural mineral water and clearly show the main mineral types. The warning should be visible in a red and white box and not less than 2 mm in height so that consumers can easily recognize it. In addition, for natural mineral water containing more than 1mg of fluorine per liter, the word fluoride must be marked on the label. The requirement to display advertising information on labels has also been amended to prohibit labeling natural mineral water as being used to treat or prevent disease, or to provide information that could mislead consumers.

Through these amendments, the Thai Ministry of Health aims to raise the quality standards of natural mineral water, protect the health of consumers, and promote fair competition in the market. These measures will help improve the overall level of the natural mineral water industry in Thailand, while also providing consumers with safer and healthier choices.