Zamzam Water Warning

As Muslims observe Ramadan, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has again advised that people should consider avoiding drinking bottled water described or labelled as 'Zamzam' water.

Tests have shown that 'Zamzam' water sold in the UK may contain high levels of arsenic or nitrates, and people should be aware of the health risks associated with drinking this water. However, if anyone has occasionally drunk small amounts of 'Zamzam' water, the risk to health for adults and older children would be very low.

Infants may also be sensitive to the level of nitrate present so it is not recommended that they are given the water to drink.

Authentic water, sacred to Muslims, comes from a specific source in Saudi Arabia, and cannot, by law, be exported from Saudi Arabia for sale. Water labelled Zam Zam on sale in the UK is therefore of uncertain origin.

If you see Zamzam on sale or have concerns please contact Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 0808 156 2256 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk