Bromate Levels in Ganten and Nongfu Spring Bottled Water Hit E.U. Limit

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A consumer is drinking Nongfu Spring bottled water.

Levels of bromate have been found in Ganten and Nongfu Spring bottled waters that are at the maximum limit set by the European Union.

Bromate is a compound formed in the disinfection process that has potential health risks.

Tests carried out by the Consumer Council of Hong Kong on 30 brands of bottled waters show that 3 micrograms per liter of bromate was detected in the bottled water products of Ganten and Nongfu Spring, the maximum limit for ozonated natural mineral water and fountain water set by the EU.

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Bromate at EU's 3 micrograms/liter max limit was found in Ganten and Nongfu Spring bottled waters, though it’s below the 10 micrograms/liter limit of the US, Japan, and WHO.
The Consumer Council of Hong Kong detected no microplastics but found metal impurities in 90% of 30 sampled bottled waters, all within regulatory limits.
Nongfu Spring’s stock fell 4.56% on concerns over bromate levels, broader rumors, and market confidence; potential safety measures for certain groups are recommended for bottled water use.

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Who’s Who

Nongfu Spring: Nongfu Spring's bottled water was found to contain 3 micrograms per liter of bromate, the EU's maximum limit. Despite safety assurances, its Hong Kong-listed stock fell by 4.56%, losing HK$8.06 billion in market value. The company's stock has declined over 20% since February amid various concerns, including rumors about foreign investment controls and water source pollution. The controlling shareholder plans to increase its holding by up to HK$ 2 billion within six months.

Ganten: Ganten bottled water was found to have bromate levels at the EU's maximum limit of 3 micrograms per liter, as per tests by the Consumer Council of Hong Kong. While lower than the standards set by the U.S., Japan, and WHO (10 micrograms per liter), bromate poses health risks, leading to concerns.

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What Happened When

By February 2024：: Nongfu Spring’s stock has dropped more than 20% amid rumors about foreign investment controls, water source pollution, and a widespread boycott of its products.

July 8-14, 2024：: Nongfu Spring said that its controlling shareholder intends to increase its holding by no more than HK$ 2 billion in the next six months.