A health alert has been issued in Spain after potentially dangerous bacteria was detected in samples of a bottled water brand.
The national food-safety watchdog said Pseudomonas aeruginosa was discovered in batches of Fuente Madre mineral water, a bacterium capable of causing infections.
The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) confirmed on December 3 that the warning -initially issued on November 27 and limited to the 1.5-litre format – now affects three bottle sizes, all of them with a shelf-life date of December 31, 2027.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that can lead to infections, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, people with chronic illnesses and those with weakened immune systems.
While healthy individuals are unlikely to suffer serious complications, its presence in drinking water automatically triggers a sanitary alert.
Products and batches affected
Health authorities in Castilla–La Mancha detected the contamination in the following volumes:
- 1.5-litre bottles: Batch 1 040725
- 5-litre bottles: Batch 5290425
- 8-litre bottles: Batch L 8050525
Consumers can find the batch number printed on each bottle’s label. Officials stress that none of the affected bottles should be consumed under any circumstances.
Where has the water been distributed?
According to AESAN, the contaminated lots have been sold mainly in Andalucia, Castilla–La Mancha and Extremadura.
However, authorities warn that commercial redistribution means they may also have reached shops in other regions.
Supermarkets, convenience stores and wholesalers are now withdrawing the affected products from sale, and all regional administrations have been notified through Spain’s rapid information-exchange system (SCIRI).
Authorities advise consumers to check the batch number on any Fuente Madre bottles and dispose of affected bottles immediately.
Avoid drinking the water even if it appears normal and contact a doctor if you experience fever, malaise or signs of infection after drinking from the contaminated batches.
It is not necessary to return the product to the point of purchase.
