Nepal’s Department of Food Technology and Quality Control has halted 65 water jars prepared for sale at Bluepine Mineral Water in Gokarneshwor Municipality-8, Kathmandu, after an inspection found lapses in the purification process. The action followed consumer complaints.

Inspectors found that water was being filled into jars without operating the ultraviolet (UV) treatment machine at the time of filling. Although the plant’s reverse-osmosis and ozonation systems were operating, the department said the UV step a key purification requirement was not being used during filling.

The inspection also found that sanitation at the facility was only “normal” and needed improvement. Officials noted that the water-filling area and jar-cleaning area were located close to each other, raising hygiene concerns.

The department stopped the 65 jars under Rule 13, Sub-rule 2 of Nepal’s Food Regulations 2027. The jars had been kept ready for sale and distribution when the inspection took place

Water samples have been collected under the Food Hygiene and Quality Act 2081 for laboratory testing. The department said further legal action will be considered after the test results are received.