Under pressure for months, Nestlé Waters announced it had replaced the controversial microfiltration system used at the Vergèze site in the Gard department for the production of its Perrier water. The 0,2-micron system had been deemed non-compliant by health authorities because it altered the water's "natural microbiome," in violation of mineral water regulations. A new 0,45-micron filter was installed on time, ahead of the deadline set by the prefect.
The Perrier water scandal embarrasses even the State
This technical about-face is not enough to calm the political storm. Socialist Senator Alexandre Ouizille has denounced the complicity of public authorities in what he considers to be large-scale fraud: the State is said to have approved prohibited treatments as early as 2023, despite warnings from the ARS (Regional Health Agency). Since the summer of 2024, several damning reports have revealed bacterial contamination at the Perrier site, calling into question the group's ability to meet the requirements for the natural mineral water designation.
The challenge for Nestlé is significant: retaining the "Perrier" label as a natural mineral water. However, experts commissioned by the Gard prefecture have already issued an unfavorable opinion on maintaining this name. The decision, initially expected on August 7, could be delayed due to the group's submission of a new application.
In an attempt to restore its image, Nestlé has announced it will invest €25 million over five years to improve water resource management. But for now, there is no guarantee that the prefect will validate the new filtration system's compliance with European regulations.
