Consumers in Malaysia are advised to practice caution when purchasing bottled water, as our neighbours down south are banning another Malaysian bottled water brand for bacteria taint.
The ban came after the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) detected the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, most commonly found in faeces, soil, water, and sewage.
A similar ban on another Malaysian bottled water brand, Guang Li Liang, occurred on June 12 when the SFA ordered a recall of the product from shelves after the exact same bacteria were identified.
According to Deputy Health Minister Dr Lee Boon Chye, the Health Ministry will carry out an investigation on the matter.
“We need more information on the product as to what batch was affected and the source of the problem. If the products which are sold domestically are affected, we will immediately do a product recall.”
The brands that have been banned by authorities in Singapore include Starfresh and all products under the Malee Mineral Water brand: Sukahati, Ro Fina and Still.
It is said the use or consumption of the product contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria can cause a range of infections that are very difficult to treat with antibiotics.
We urge members of the public to be extra careful when choosing bottled water brands for drinking, or make your own clean water if you can!
Also read: Beware: Local Bottled Water Brand Recalled After Found With Bacteria