The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced actions against a manufacturer of alkaline water based in Gujarat after laboratory tests revealed the presence of black particles, sediments, and fulvic acid. These findings have raised serious concerns regarding the safety of packaged drinking water, prompting the regulator to interfere in the wellness beverage market.

On Saturday, May 9, 2026, the FSSAI reported the confiscation of stocks valued at approximately Rs 31.61 lakh from a company located in Vadodara. Although the FSSAI did not disclose the brand name, officials noted multiple violations, including misleading packaging, inconsistent labelling, and the identification of a “blackish-brown coloration” in the water.

This situation has drawn attention to fulvic acid, a compound derived from decomposed organic matter in soil, which has become popular in various wellness supplements, detox products, and black alkaline water marketed for health benefits.

Investigation Triggered by Consumer Complaint

The investigation was initiated after a consumer complaint led to a detailed examination of the product in question. Officials uncovered sediments and black particles within the packaged water. Further laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of fulvic acid, establishing that these substances were not a natural component of the original water.

The FSSAI clarified that the addition of such black mineral substances constituted a breach of safety standards. Consequently, formal legal proceedings have commenced under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, in response to these violations.

This controversy has surfaced amidst a growing trend among urban populations towards alkaline and mineral-infused waters, which are often marketed as healthier alternatives to conventional packaged water. Black alkaline water, in particular, has found a niche in the fitness and wellness sectors.

Understanding Fulvic Acid and Its Uses

The ongoing issue has sparked curiosity about fulvic acid, a substance frequently associated with Shilajit, which holds significance in traditional Ayurvedic practices. It is a product of the decomposition of plant and organic matter and belongs to a category of compounds known as humic substances.

Fulvic acid is marketed globally as a dietary supplement in various forms, including liquids and powders, and is claimed to enhance nutrient absorption. Health professionals have indicated that fulvic acid contains trace minerals and electrolytes, purportedly aiding the body in more effective nutrient uptake.

Although preliminary studies suggest potential benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, experts emphasize the need for thorough research to substantiate these claims. Concerns regarding the regulation and classification of products containing fulvic acid have emerged as central to the current case.

Health Implications and Regulatory Classifications

While wellness brands continue to promote drinks infused with functional ingredients, experts caution that the scientific evidence for fulvic acid’s health benefits is still developing. Many claims associated with fulvic acid supplements lack large-scale clinical support.

Health specialists note that while small quantities are generally deemed safe, excessive intake or inferior-quality supplements could lead to adverse effects, such as nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort. Additionally, the lack of regulation raises concerns about possible contaminants within unverified products.

Particularly vulnerable groups, such as those with autoimmune conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals on long-term medications, should seek medical advice before considering fulvic acid supplements. This incident highlights a broader challenge facing India’s burgeoning wellness market, where distinctions between beverages, supplements, and therapeutic products can be increasingly difficult to discern.

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