US Authorities Found Arsenic in Armenian Mineral Water `Jermuk’

Arminfo
2007-03-09 11:59:00

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers not to
drink certain brands of mineral water "Jermuk" imported from Armenia
due to the risk of exposure to arsenic, a toxic substance and known
cause of cancer in humans.

Symptoms of acute arsenic exposure usually occur within several hours
of consumption. The most likely effects include nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea, and stomach pain. Over the period of a few days to weeks,
the kidneys, liver, skin, and cardiovascular and nervous systems could
be affected. Extended exposure could lead to cancer and death.

FDA sampled 500 milliliter (mL) green glass bottles and detected the
problem. FDA is investigating whether other sizes or packaging are
involved.

FDA testing of this water revealed 500 – 600 micrograms of arsenic per
liter. FDA’s standard of quality bottled water allows no more than 10
micrograms per liter.

There have been no illnesses reported at this time. Consumers who
drank this water and have concerns are encouraged to contact their
health care provider.

FDA will continue working to remove all such bottled water products
from the marketplace. FDA may provide additional updates as more
information becomes available.