Kochi health authorities to inspect water bottling units after contamination findings

The Health Department and Kochi Corporation have initiated a joint inspection drive targeting water bottling units across the city after pathogenic contamination was identified in drinking water supplied to food establishments. The E. coli findings emerged from surprise quality checks conducted at roadside eateries, raising concerns about the safety of packaged drinking water supplied to commercial food preparation facilities. Officials have flagged potential hygiene and storage lapses in the water bottling supply chain that may have contributed to bacterial contamination reaching end-consumers through restaurants and street food vendors. The inspection programme will focus on verifying sanitation protocols, storage conditions, and water treatment processes at bottling plants to ensure compliance with food safety standards. Authorities have indicated that establishments found in violation of drinking water quality norms will face corrective action, with follow-up testing scheduled to monitor water safety in the hospitality sector.