The Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) has declared 23 bottled and mineral water brands unsafe for consumption following comprehensive quality tests conducted nationwide. The announcement comes after PCRWR collected and analyzed 203 samples from 21 major cities in the second quarter of 2025, as part of its regular program to monitor drinking water standards and raise public awareness.
The evaluation, carried out in compliance with the standards set by the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority, found that several popular bottled water brands contained chemical or microbiological contaminants at levels that render them unfit for drinking. The PCRWR has published the detailed findings on its official website.
Out of the brands tested, 11 were found to have dangerously high sodium levels. These brands include New Mehran, Aqua 111, Nice Pure Max, Pure Drinking Water, Logic, Himalya Cool, Natural Pure Life, Natural, Forever Bottled Drinking Water, Drinkly Pure Drinking Water, and Qudrat Water. Health experts warn that excessive sodium in drinking water can pose significant risks, particularly for individuals with high blood pressure or heart conditions.
Four brands—Atco Drinking Water, Aqua Nest, Pani, and New Mountain—were reported to contain arsenic above permissible limits. Arsenic is a toxic substance; long-term exposure increases the risk of skin disorders, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
One brand, Vey Forever, was identified with potassium levels exceeding recommended safety thresholds. While potassium is an essential nutrient, excessive amounts can be harmful for those with kidney ailments.
Microbiological contamination was also discovered in nine brands, including Noble Pure Drinking Water, Aqua 111, Clear, Wah Water, Nice Pure Max, Aqua King Bottled Water, Maa Jee, Freshin Drinking Water, and Iceland. The presence of harmful bacteria in these products can cause gastrointestinal diseases and pose serious health threats to consumers.
In light of these findings, the PCRWR has urged the public to refer to the full report on its website to verify the safety of bottled water brands before consumption. The council reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing quarterly evaluations to protect public health and maintain drinking water quality standards nationwide.
