10 bottled water brands 'a health risk'

 More than 10 brands of bottled water being sold in various shops pose a health risk to unsuspecting consumers as they have not been approved by the Standards Association of Zimbabwe.

This comes in the wake of a study by researchers from the University of Zimbabwe and Masvingo Polytechnic which showed that some companies were selling water with high levels of nitrites that are responsible for cancer in humans.

The experts concluded that the bottled water also contained viable bacteria and heavy metals at levels that exceed limits set by the World Health Organisation Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality.

A comparison of the list of brands approved by SAZ and those being sold in shops and by vendors in Harare's Central Business District showed that at least 10 brands were not among the 22 approved by SAZ.

SAZ certifies bottled water according to minimum standards set by the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

Three brands also have expired certification; Tanganda, Schweppes and Mukati Investments.