Packaged drinking water means water derived from surface water or underground water or sea water which is subjected to herein under specified treatments, namely, decantation, filtration, combination of filtration, aerations, filtration with membrane filter depth filter, cartridge filter, activated carbon filtration, demineralization, reverse osmosis and packed after disinfecting the water to a level that shall not lead to any harmful contamination in the drinking water by means of chemical agents or physical methods to reduce the number of microorganisms to a level beyond scientifically accepted level for food safety or its suitability: Provided that sea water, before being subjected to the above treatments, shall be subjected to desalination and related processes. It shall be filled in sealed containers of various compositions, forms and capacities that is suitable for direct consumption without further treatment.
Water is generally defined as a liquid which is shaped by the container that it is filled in and is able to have many variants of colors. It is the crucial component for all living things. For instance, humans need water for many functions such as to regulate body temperature, enhance body metabolism, and provide minerals that are essential to the body. There are many sources of water, such as surface water, aquifer, and seawater. Meanwhile, deep sea water (DSW) can also be a good water source. It is beneficial as it could supply minerals that are essential to health. DSW commonly refers to seawater that is pumped up from a depth of over 200 m.
Drinking water sold by suppliers is expected to contain good nutrient content and be safe to be consumed, because the suppliers possess a production license from the authorities. Surprisingly, some drinking water that is available in the market has been reported to have low mineral content. This is possibly due to the common process drinking water undergo such as reverse osmosis and filtration, which removes the mineral contents inside it. Mineral water, which does not undergo the extensive process needed, is completely taken from groundwater and gains mineral ions from its sources such as rocks. It is also reported to contain low minerals.
Uses and Application
There are some uses of Packaged Drinking Water are:
1. Packaged drinking water is a safe and convenient way to ensure you're getting clean water.
2. It is perfect for on-the-go situations, like when you're traveling or working out.
3. Plus, it's a great way to stay hydrated without having to lug around a water bottle.
4. There are many different brands and types of packaged drinking water, so you can find one that fits your needs and preferences.
7. the most common use of packaged drinking water is as an alternative to the standard bottled water at places such as restaurants, schools, offices, and other work environments.
8. One type of packaged drinking water offers increased pH levels for people who suffer from stomach acidity and ulcers.
Indian Market
The Indian packaged drinking water market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 15% during the forecast period of 2020-2025. The market is driven by the growing health consciousness among consumers, rising disposable incomes, and changing lifestyles.
Packaged drinking water is water from any source, which has been treated and disinfected, a process that could involve filtration, UV or ozone treatment or reverse osmosis (RO) and then packaged in bottles or pouches, either plastic or glass, for our consumption. For a product to be considered as “bottled water”, it cannot contain sweeteners or chemical additives (other than flavors, extracts or essences) and must be calorie-free and sugar-free. India’s packaged bottle water industry has been valued at Rs.60 billion in 2013, and this market is expected to reach Rs.160 billion in 2018. There are around 150 domestic Indian Bottled Water Brands in the market today.
A rise in health awareness, poor quality of tap water available, increase in tourism and the easy availability of bottled water have all contributed to the increase in the per capita consumption of bottled water in India today. The packaged water industry in the country is regulated and all bottling units have to obtain a license before they can operate. However illegal manufacturing units do thrive across the country, putting at great risk the health of the people. People can file a complaint to the regulatory authority against unauthorized water drinking plants.
Industry Major Market Players:
1. Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.
2. Coca-Cola Company.
3. Dan one Waters India Pvt. Ltd.
4. Hindustan Unilever Limited.
5. PepsiCo India Holdings Pvt. Ltd.
6. Nestlé
7. DANONE
8. Primo Water Corporation
9. FIJI Water Company LLC
10. Gerolsteiner Brunnen GmbH & Co. KG
11. VOSS WATER
12. Nongfu Spring
13. National Beverage Corp.
14. Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.
Moreover, increase in demand for packaged drinking water owing to surge in pollution levels is also driving the growth of this market.