Perrier Faces Scrutiny Over ‘Natural Mineral Water’ Status Amid Climate Concerns

France’s renowned bottled water industry – worth billions annually – is facing mounting questions over whether some of its most famous labels, including Perrier, can still legally claim the title “natural mineral water.”

A decision on Perrier’s status is expected in the coming months, following media investigations that revealed the use of microfiltration systems – a practice prohibited under European Union rules for natural mineral water – by several major brands. The technology was reportedly introduced in response to rising contamination risks, worsened by years of drought linked to climate change.

“This is our own Watergate,” said journalist Stéphane Mandard, who has led coverage of the issue for Le Monde. “It’s a mix of industrial misconduct and state complicity.”

Under EU law, natural mineral water must be bottled exactly as it emerges from the source, without treatments that alter its composition. While the water in question remains safe to drink, campaigners argue that filtration undermines the premium image these brands have cultivated – one of pristine origins and untouched purity.

Investigations by Le Monde and Radio France suggested that at least a third of France’s mineral water brands, including Perrier, Evian, and Vichy, had used prohibited filtration methods. Allegations also surfaced that both company executives and government officials worked to keep the findings quiet, even amending regulations to accommodate Perrier’s continued use of fine filters. A Senate inquiry accused the government of deliberately concealing damaging information.

Nestlé, which owns Perrier, admitted earlier this year that it had used non-compliant treatment methods. The company also acknowledged that an official hydrology report had advised against renewing the “natural mineral water” designation for its historic Vergèze site in southern France – raising the possibility that the 160-year-old brand could lose its defining label.

Hydrologists warn that Perrier’s troubles are part of a larger trend. Emma Haziza, an expert in climate and water systems, said prolonged drought, rising temperatures, and over-extraction have depleted deep aquifers once thought immune to pollution. In southern France, where Perrier sources its water, flash floods are now washing contaminants into these underground reserves.

The company disputes claims that deep aquifers are being compromised, insisting its water remains pure and mineral-rich. Perrier also argues that EU rules do not explicitly ban microfiltration and has switched to a coarser filter, agreed upon with the French government. It has applied for mineral water status for two of its five active wells.

While its flagship mineral water remains under review, Perrier has successfully diversified into flavoured and energy drinks under the “Maison Perrier” label – products that do not require the strict natural designation and can be filtered without regulatory issues.

The European Commission has been asked to clarify how much filtration is permissible, a decision that could reshape the industry. For Perrier, the ruling may determine whether its iconic green bottles can still carry the claim that has been central to its global appeal.