NATURAL MINERAL AND SPRING WATERS - A GIFT OF NATURE
The unique quality of European natural mineral and spring waters is recognised all over the world. Naturally pure as they pass through the geological structures of their protected underground sources, natural mineral and spring waters do not require chemical treatments or disinfection to make them safe for consumption.
Each natural mineral water or spring water has its own distinctive taste, a unique set of properties and a specific mineral composition. Consumers can choose their water by taste depending on mineral content and their preference for still or sparkling meeting the growing demand for healthy products which retain their original qualities. Learn more
Natural mineral and spring waters are an important part of Europe's cultural heritage and have been enjoyed and recognized for their purity for hundreds of years. Already the ancient Romans recognized the benefits of drinking and bathing in natural waters and to this day natural mineral and spring waters are one of the healthiest ways to keep hydrated. Learn more on the history of natural waters here.
SAFETY AND QUALITY – OUR TOP PRIORITY
Europe has one of the world’s most effective and strict legal frameworks which ensures that naturally sourced waters reach consumers in their original state. Legislation distinguishes three categories of waters: natural mineral water, spring water and bottled drinking water. The European Union has laid down specific rules for natural mineral and spring waters, which clearly set them apart from drinking water, more commonly known as tap water.
Each natural mineral water in Europe must receive official recognition from the State’s competent authority and be published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Up to now, more than 2000 natural mineral waters have been recognized in the EU. Learn more.
Production must comply with food safety regulations and these processes are also guided by industry good practice and guidelines. The water is rigorously monitored at the spring and in all production steps, making natural mineral and spring waters one of the most frequently safety-checked food and drink products.
GOOD HYGIENIC PRACTICES - NMWE AT THE FOREFRONT
In order to assist natural mineral and spring water producers to implement the strict European and international food safety requirements, NMWE, formerly EFBW, has developed a “Guide to Good Hygienic Practices for Packaged Water in Europe”. It was endorsed by the European Commission’s Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCFCAH) in 2012.
The guide comprises a detailed set of recommendations for good manufacturing. Preventive measures and critical control points are outlined for every aspect of natural mineral and spring water production, from water resource management and the protection of catchment areas to piping, bottling and distribution.
