Food Act Report 2009/2010 - SA Health - SA.Gov.au

Appendix 5A Survey to Measure the Microbiological Safety ofPackaged Water available for Retail SaleAims and Scope of the InvestigationThe purpose of this survey was to measure the microbiological quality of bottled water available for retail sale.Samples were analysed for Escherichia coli (E. coli) spp., Pseudomonas spp., yeasts and moulds, and reviewed forcompliance with microbiological limits. Samples were also reviewed for general labelling requirements as set out inthe Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code). This is a snapshot survey.Background to the surveySafe drinking water is a fundamental requirement for maintaining public health and supporting healthy communities.All bottled water sold in Australia and New Zealand, regardless of whether it is a domestic or imported brand, mustadhere to safety, quality, production and labelling standards required by the Code. In addition, bottled water soldthrough international commerce is subject to the standards of Codex Alimentarius, the food standards body of theWorld Health Organization.Standard 1.6.1 of the Code specifies a maximum contaminant level, which is the highest concentration of a particularcontaminant allowed in bottled water. Maximum contaminant levels are set at levels low enough to prevent healthproblems. While no specific limits are set for Pseudomonas spp. and mould in the Code, their presence in water arepossible health concerns. These organisms are harmless in healthy people but are pathogenic in compromised people(for example, malnourished, diabetic, or immunosuppressed patients).StandardsStandard 1.6.1 of the code sets the maximum permissible levels of micro-organisms that pose a risk to human healthin packaged and mineral water. This standard states that E. coli must not be detected in 100 ml of water.The Food Act 2001 requires food businesses not to sell food that is unsafe or unsuitable for human consumption.While no specific limits are set for Pseudomonas spp., yeast or mould in Standard 1.6.1 of the Code, it does requirethat food be safe for human consumption.What foods were tested?A total of 20 samples were tested, capturing a variety of brands for retail sale in South Australia.What did we test for?All samples were sent to the IMVS Food and Environmental Laboratory in Adelaide for analysis. Samples wereanalysed for Escherichia coli spp., Pseudomonas spp., yeasts and moulds.Food Act Report Year ending 30 June 2010 page 56