UGANDA STANDARD  US 43
Second Edition
2008-0 9-08
 
 
Reference numbe  
r
US 43: 2008
 © UNBS 2008 
  
Packaged natural mineral waters — Specification  
 US 43: 2008 
ii © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 Compliance with this standard does not, of itself confer immunity from legal obligations 
A Uganda Standard does not purport to include all necessary provisions of a contract. Users are 
responsible for its correct application  
© UNBS 2008  
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in any 
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, in cluding photocopying and microfilm, without prior written 
permission from UNBS. 
Requests for permission to reproduce this document should be addressed to 
The Executive Director 
Uganda National Bureau of Standards 
P.O. Box 6329 
Kampala  
Uganda 
Tel: 256 414 505995 
Fax: 256 414 286123 
E-mail: unbs@infocom.co.ugUS 43: 2008 
© UNBS  2008– All rights reserved  iii
 Contents Page 
Foreword ............................................................................................................................................................iv  
1 Scope ......................................................................................................................................................1  
2 Normative References ...........................................................................................................................1  
3 Terms and definitions ...........................................................................................................................2  
4 General requirements ...........................................................................................................................4  
4.1 Authorization .........................................................................................................................................4  
4.2 Treatment of the natural mineral water ...............................................................................................4  
5 Composition and quality requirements ...............................................................................................5  
5.1 Physical characteristics .......................................................................................................................5  
5.2 Chemical composition ..........................................................................................................................5  
6 Water safety plans .................................................................................................................................6  
7 Packaging ...............................................................................................................................................8  
8 Labelling .................................................................................................................................................8  
8.1 General labelling requirements ............................................................................................................8  
8.2 Additional labelling requirements .......................................................................................................8  
8.3 Labelling prohibitions ...........................................................................................................................9  
8.4 Optional labelling ..................................................................................................................................9  
Annex A (normative)  Requirements for hygiene in the packaging of natural mineral waters ................11  
Annex B (normative)  Sampling plan for mineral water ...............................................................................22  
 
 US 43: 2008 
iv © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
                                                      Foreword 
Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is a parastatal under the Ministry  of Tourism, Trade and 
Industry established under Cap 327, of the Laws of Uganda.  UNBS is mandated to co-ordinate the 
elaboration of standards and is  
(a) a member of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and  
(b) a contact point for the WHO/FAO Codex A limentarius Commission on Food Standards, and  
(c) the National Enquiry Point on TBT/SPS Agr eements of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). 
The work of preparing Uganda Standards is carried out through Technical Committees. A Technical 
Committee is established to deliberate on standards in a gi ven field or area and consists of representatives of 
consumers, traders, academician s, manufacturers, governme nt and other stakeholders. 
Draft Uganda Standards adopted by the Technical Committ ee are widely circulated to stakeholders and the 
general public for comments. The committee reviews the comments before recommending the draft standards 
for approval and declaration as Uganda Standards by the National Standards Council.  
Committee membership1
The following organisations were represented on the Technical Committee TC 2 on Agricultural and Food Products during the preparation of this standard: 
- Britania Foods (U) Ltd. 
- Dairy Corporation 
- Department of Food science and Technology Makerere University 
- Department of Paediatrics and Ch ild Health Makerere University 
- Directorate of Water  Development 
- Food Science and Research Institute/National Agriculture Research Organisation (NARO) 
- Government Chemist 
- Ministry of Touris m, Trade and Industry 
- NC Beverages Ltd. 
- National Water and Sewerage Corporation 
- Rwenzori Beverages 
- Seven Falls Mineral Water  
- UMA Industries Ltd.  
- Uganda Consumer Protection Association 
- Uganda Klere Industries 
 
 
1 Includes members who were responsible for the development of the first edition of 1999 UGANDA STANDARD US 43: 2008
 
© UNBS 2008– All rights reserved 1
 Packaged natural mineral waters — Specification 
1 Scope 
This Uganda Standard specifies the requirements and met hods of test for packaged natural mineral waters 
offered for human consumption. This standard applies to  natural mineral water packaged in plastic bottles, 
glass bottles, poly bags and other acceptable packaging material. 
2 Normative References 
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated 
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced 
document (including any amendments) applies. 
US 7, General standards for labelling of pre-packaged foods  
US 28, Code of practice for hygiene in the food and drink manufacturing industries 
US 45, General standards for food additives  
US 201, Drinking (potable) water — Specification 
US ISO 5664, Water quality — Determination of ammonium — Distillation and titration method 
US ISO 5666,  Water quality — Determination of mercury 
US ISO 5667-1, Water quality — Sampling — Part 1: Guidance on the design of sampling programmes 
US ISO 5667-2, Water quality — Sampling — Part 2: Guidance on sampling techniques 
US ISO 5667-3, Water quality — Sampling — Part 3: Guidance on preservation and handling of water samples 
US ISO 5667-5,  Water quality — Sampling — Part 5: Guidance on sampling of drinking water from treatment 
works and piped distribution systems 
US ISO 5667-11, Water quality — Sampling — Part 11: Guidance on sampling of groundwaters  
US ISO 5961 , Water quality - Determination of cadmiu m by atomic absorption spectrometry 
US ISO 6333,  Water quality — Determination of manganese — Formaldoxime spectrometric method  
US ISO 6703-1,  Water quality — Determination of cyanide — Part 1: Determination of total cyanide  
US ISO 7393-1-1,  Water quality — Determination of free chlorine and total chlorine — Part 1: Titrimetric 
method using N,N-diethyl-1,4- phenylenediamine  
US ISO 7887, Water quality — Examination and determination of colour  
US ISO 7888 , Water quality — Determination of electrical conductivity US 43: 2008 
2 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 US ISO 7890-3 , Water quality — Determination of nitrate — Part 3: Spectrometric method using sulfosalicylic 
acid
US ISO 8288, Water quality — Determination of cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, cadmium and lead — Flame 
atomic absorption spectrometric methods 
US ISO 9174, Water quality — Determination of chromium — Atomic absorption spectrometric methods  
US ISO 9308-2, Water quality — Detection and enumeration of colifor m organisms, thermotolerant coliform 
organisms and presumptive Escherichia coli — Part 2: Multiple tube (most probable number) method 
US ISO 9965,  Water quality — Determination of selenium — Atomic absorption spectrometric method (hydride 
technique)
US ISO 9390, Water quality — Determination of borate — Spectrometric met hod using azomethine-H  
US ISO 10304-1 , Water quality — Determination of dissolved fluoride,  chloride, nitrite, orthophosphate, 
bromide, nitrate and sulfate ions, using liquid chromatography of ions — Part 1: Method for water with low 
contamination
US ISO 10359-2,  Water quality — Determination of fluoride — Pa rt 2: Determination of inorganically bound 
total fluoride after digestion and distillation  
US ISO 10523 , Water quality — Determination of pH 
US ISO 11885, Water quality — Determination of 33 elements by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission 
spectroscopy  
US ISO 11969 , Water quality — Determination of arsenic — Atomic absorption spectr ometric method (hydride 
technique) 
US ISO 6461-2, Water quality — Detection and enumeration of the spores of sulfite-reducing anaerobes 
(clostridia) — Part 2: Method by membrane filtration 
US ISO 16266, Water quality — Detection and enumeration of Pseudomonas aeruginosa — Method by 
membrane filtration 
3 Terms and definitions 
For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions shall apply. 
3.1 
packaged natural mineral water (conta inerized natural mineral water) 
natural mineral water that has been packaged sealed and is intended for human consumption. 
3.2 
natural mineral water 
water that with regard to the source:  
a) is characterized by its content of certain mineral salts and their relative proportions and the presence 
of trace elements or other constituents; 
b) is obtained directly from natural or drilled source s from underground water-bearing strata for which all 
possible precautions shall be taken within the protec ted perimeters to avoid any pollution of , or 
external influence on, the chemical and phy sical qualities of natural mineral water ; 
c) has constancy of composition and stability of its discharge and its temperature, taking into account  
cycles of minor natural fluctuations; US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 3
 d) is collected under conditions, which guarantee it s original bacteriological purity and chemical 
composition of essential components; 
e) is not subjected to any treatment; other than physical treatment described in 4.2.2; and 
f) is packaged close to the point of emergence or source with particular hygienic precautions. 
3.3 
source of natural mineral water 
point at which natural mineral water is tapped 
3.4 
container 
any bottle, carton, can or other container to be filled wi th natural mineral water, properly labelled and intended 
for sale 
3.5 
adequate 
sufficient to accomplish the intended purpose of this standard 
3.6 
cleaning 
removal of soil, food residues, dirt, grease or other objectionable matter 
3.7 
contamination 
occurrence of any objectionable matter in the product 
3.8 
disinfection 
reduction, without adversely affecting the natural mineral water, by means of  hygienically satisfactory chemical 
agents and/or physical methods, of t he number of microorganisms to a level that will not lead to harmful 
contamination of natural mineral water 
3.9 
establishment 
any building(s) or areas in which natural mineral water is handled and collected and the surroundings under 
the control of the same management 
3.10 
handling of natural mineral water  
any manipulation with regard to collecting, treating, bo ttling, packaging, storing, transport, distribution and sale 
of natural mineral water 
3.11 
food hygiene  
all measures necessary to ensure the safety, soundness  and wholesomeness of natural mineral water at all 
stages from its exploitation and processing until its final consumption 
3.12 
packaging material  
any containers such as cans, bottles, cartons, boxes, case s or wrapping and covering material such as foil, film, 
metal paper and wax paper 
3.13 
pests 
animals capable of directly or indirect ly contaminating natural mineral water US 43: 2008 
4 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 3.14 
aquifers  
solid permeable mass of rocks (layer) containing natural mineral water 
3.15 
spring 
natural mineral water discharging genuinely from the ground 
3.16 
naturally carbonated natural mineral water 
natural mineral water, which is naturally carbonated from source 
3.17 
non-carbonated natural mineral water 
mineral water, which by nature; and after possible treatment and packaging, does not contain free carbon 
dioxide in excess of the amount necessary to keep  the hydrogen carbonate salts present in the water 
dissolved 
3.18 
decarbonated natural mineral water 
mineral water, which after possible treatment and  pa ckaging has less carbon dioxide than at emergence 
3.19 
competent authority 
official authority charged by the government with the control of water hygiene, including setting and enforcing 
regulatory water hygiene and quality requirements 
4 General requirements 
4.1 Authorization 
Natural mineral water shall be only that which is recognized and authorized as such by the competent 
authority from the place in which the natural mineral water has emerged. 
4.2 Treatment of the natural mineral water 
4.2.1 Natural mineral water shall not be subjected to any  treatment other than phy sical treatment described 
in this standard. 
4.2.2  Natural mineral water may be treated to separate unsuitable constituents such as compounds 
containing iron, manganese, sulfur or arsenic, by decant ation and/or filtration, if necessary, accelerated by 
previous aeration including the use of ozone-enric hed air provided that such treatment does not have 
disinfectant action or generate the formation of tr eatment residues that may hav e harmful effect on public 
health. 
4.2.3  Natural mineral water shall not be treated by use of chemical substances and io nizing radiation except 
the use of UV radiation. 
4.2.4  The treatment referred to under 4.2.1 - 4.2.3 above may only be carried out on condition that the 
mineral content of the water is not m odified in its essential constituents, which give the water its properties. 
4.2.5  Natural mineral waters shall not be transported in bulk containers for packaging or for any other 
process before packaging. US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 5
 5 Composition and quality requirements 
5.1 Physical characteristics 
5.1.1  Natural mineral water shall not have offensive tast e or odour and shall be free of any foreign matter. 
5.1.2  The colour of natural mineral water shall not exceed 15 true colour units. 
5.1.3  Turbidity of natural mineral water shall not exceed 5 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU). 
5.1.4  Natural mineral water shall not have any s ediment or suspended matter during its shelf life. 
5.2 Chemical composition  
5.2.1 Health related limits for certain substances 
Natural mineral water shall contain not more than the amounts of the substances indicated in Table 1. 
Table 1 — Requirements for limits of inorganic contaminants in mineral water 
Substance Limit 
(mg/L) Methods of test 
Ammonia as NH 3, max. 0.5 US ISO 5664 
Antimony, max 0.005 US ISO 11885 
Arsenic as As, max. 0.01 US ISO 11969 
Barium as Ba++, max. 0.7 US ISO 11885 
Borate as B, max. 5 US ISO 11885 
Cadmium as Cd, max. 0.003 US ISO 5961 
Chromium as Cr, max. 0.05 US ISO 9174 
Copper as Cu++, max. 1.0 US ISO 8288 
Cyanide as Cn-, max 0.01 US ISO 6703-1 
Free Chlorine as Cl 2, max. Not detected US ISO 7393 
Lead as Pb, max. 0.01 US ISO 8288 
Manganese as Mn++, max. 0.5 US ISO 6333 
Mercury as Hg, max. 0.001 US ISO 5666 
Fluoride as F-, max 5.0 US ISO 10359-2 
Nitrate as NO 3-50 US ISO 7890-3 
Nitrite as NO 2-, max. 0.02 US ISO 10304-1
Selenium as Se, max. 0.01 US ISO 9965 
Nickel as Ni, max. 0.02 US ISO 8288 
 
NOTE There has been increasing recogn ition that fluoride causes large scal e health effects through drinking-water 
exposure. Exposure to high levels of fluoride, which occurs naturally, can lead to mottling of teeth and, in severe cases, 
crippling skeletal fluorosis. Contribution from drinking-water to overall intake of fluoride is an important factor in preventi ng 
dental caries. Even with very low fluoride content there is a moderate to high risk of dental caries. The most important 
source of fluoride in drinking water is naturally occurring. In  treated water where technology is used to reduce the level of 
fluoride a level of 1.5 mg/l is set. In natural mineral water where technology may not be deployed to remove fluoride 
adequate labelling is essential. US 43: 2008 
6 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 5.2.2 Organic contaminants 
Natural mineral water shall conform to the requirements for organic contaminants indicated in Table 2. 
Table 2 — Requirements for limits of organic contaminants in mineral water 
Substance Limit 
Benzene, max. 0.005 mg/L 
Chlorinated hydrocarbons, max. 0.005 mg/L 
Dioxin, max Not detectable 
Mineral oil, max Not detectable 
Organic matter, max. 10 mg/L (as O 2) 
Pesticides and PCBs, max Not detectable 
Phenols, max Not detectable 
Polycyclic aromatic hy drocarbons, max. 0.2 µg/L 
Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, max. Not detectable 
Surfactants (reacting with methylene blue), max. 0.2 mg/L 
Total trihalomethanes, max. 0.1 mg/L 
 
5.2.3 Radioactive matter  
Natural mineral water shall conform to the requirements of radioactive matter indicated in Table 3. 
Table 3 — Requirements of radioactive matter in natural mineral water 
Substance Limit, Bq/L 
Total Beta activity (except K40 and H3), max*1  
Total Alpha activity, max. 0.5  
*
The contribution of potassium-40 to beta activity shall be calcul ated using beta activity of 27.6 
Bq/g of stable potassium and subtracted from total beta activity. If beta activity levels are higher 
than 1 Bq/Ll after adjusting for potassium-40 beta activity due to tritium shall be determined and 
shall not exceed 100 Bq/L.. 
 
6 Water safety plans 
6.1 Natural mineral water systems operators shall develop, implement and maintain a water safety plan 
taking into consideration the potential risks to the safe ty of the water from the source to the consumer. 
6.2 A water safety plan shall consist of three key components:  
a) system assessment to determi ne whether the natural mineral water supply chain (up to the point of 
consumption) as a whole can deliver water of  a quality that meets health-based targets.  US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 7
 b) identifying control measures in natural mineral wa ter system that will collectively control identified 
risks and ensure that the health-based targets are met; and 
c) management plans describing actions to be taken du ring normal operation or incident conditions and 
documenting the system  assessment (including upgrade and improvement), monitoring and 
communication plans and supporting programmes.  
6.3 A water safety plan shall include:  
a) measures to protect the source of nat ural mineral water from risks of pollution 
b) measures to ensure all installations intended for the production of natural mineral water exclude any 
possibility of contamination. For this purpose and in particular: 
i) the installation for collection, the pipes and the reservoirs shall be made from materials 
suited to the water and in such a way as to pr event the introduction of foreign substances 
in water; 
ii) the equipment and its use for production, especially installation for washing and 
packaging, shall meet hygienic requirements; 
c) appropriate operational monitori ng system including monitoring parameters that can be measured and 
for which limits have been set to define the operati onal effectiveness of the activity; frequency of 
monitoring and  procedures for corrective action th at can be implemented in response to deviation 
from limits. If, during production it is found that the water is polluted, the producer shall stop all 
operations until the cause of pollution is eliminated. 
d) a verification plan to ensure that individual co mponents of the natural mineral water system, and 
system as a whole is operating safely.  
e) the observance of the above pr ovisions shall be subject to the periodic checks in accordance with 
national requirements 
6.4 During marketing, natural mineral water shall be of such quality that it will not present a risk to the 
health of the consumer. Natural mineral water shall conf orm to the microbiological requirements given in Table 
5 below. 
Table 5 — Microbiological requirements for natural mineral water 
Micro-organisms Limit Methods of test 
Total viable counta per mL, at 20 oC -22 oC for 72 h on 
agar-agar or agar-gelatine mixture, max 100 US ISO 6222 
Total coliform bacteria in 250 mL Shall be absent 
Escherichia coli  in 250 mL  Shall be absent US ISO 9308-2 
Spore-forming sulphite reducing anaerobes in 250 mL Shall be absent US ISO 6461-2 
Pseudomonas aeoruginosa,  fluorescence in 250 mL Shall be absent US ISO 16266 
Streptococcus faecalis  in 250 mL Shall be absent US ISO 7899-2 
 a The sampling for total viable colony count shall be carried out within 12 h of filling or of packaging.  
Microbiological tests shall be carried out within 12 h of sampling, the samples having been kept at 4 oC ± 1 
oC for the period prior to testing.  
 
Note At source, natural mineral water should not normally exceed 20 cfu/mL at 20 oC -22 oC in 72 h and 5 cfu per 
mL at 37 oC in 24 h. These may be used only as a guide and not as a requirement.  US 43: 2008 
8 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 7 Packaging 
Natural mineral water shall be packed in hermetically sealed food grade containers suitable for preventing the 
possible adulteration or contamination of water. 
The containers shall not contaminate or adulterate the product. In addition, the containers shall not impart 
foreign flavours or foreign odours to the product. The c ontainers shall be delivered to the filling plant in sealed 
packaging. 
At the time of filling, all containers sh all be clean and sound. Bottles shall be  free from chips,  cracks and other 
defects. Metal containers shall be free from corrosion and internal scratches and other lacquer imperfections. 
Closures shall be clean at the time of capping or sealing. Crown caps shall be fitted internally with a solid cork 
or composition cork disc or with an acceptable plastic disc. 
Containers to be used for the product shall not be used to  store ingredients, raw materials or other products or 
preparations, and such containers shall not be used by workers for drinking purposes. 
All containers shall be sealed imm ediately after they have been filled. 
Unfilled and filled containers shall be  inspected on a continuous basis, either by means of electronic 
equipment maintained in perfect working order, or  by means of appropriately trained and supervised 
personnel. 
8 Labelling 
8.1 General labelling requirements 
8.1.1  In addition to the requirements of US 7,  the following provisions shall apply: 
a) the name of the product shall be natural mineral water.   
b) the location of the source and the name of the source of natural mineral water shall be declared. 
c) the following designations shall be used where applicable: 
i) “ Naturally carbonated natural mineral water”  may be used only if the content of carbon 
dioxide is the same as at emergence; 
ii) ”Non-carbonated natural mineral water”  may be used only if by nature the natural mineral 
water does not contain free carbon dioxide; 
iii) “Decarbonated natural mineral water” shall be used if the content  of carbon dioxide in the 
natural mineral water is less than that at emergence; 
iv) “Natural mineral water fortified with carbon dioxide from the source”  shall be used if the 
content of carbon dioxide is more than that at emergence and the added carbon dioxide is 
from the same source as the natural mineral water. 
v) “Carbonated natural mineral water”  shall be used if there has been an addition of carbon 
dioxide from another origin. 
8.1.2 The net contents shall be declared by volume in accordance with the Weights and measures Act. 
8.2 Additional labelling requirements 
8.2.1  The following terms shall appear on the label as part of, or in close proximity, to the name of the 
product or in an otherwise prominent posi tion where the conditions specified apply: US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 9
 a) “May be laxative” , where the product contains more than 600 mg/L sulphate other than calcium 
sulphate; and 
b) “Name”  (such as spring water or any other appropriate name,  which will convey the true nature of the 
product) and “Location of the source” , where the name and address of the producers is different from 
the location of the source. 
8.2.2  If a natural mineral water has been submitted to a treatment in 4.2, the treatment shall be declared on 
the label. 
8.2.3  The analytical composition giving characteristics to the product shall be declared on the labelling. 
8.2.4  If the product contains more than 1 mg/L of fluoride, the following term shall appear on the label as 
part of, or in close proximity to, the name of the product or in an otherwise prominent position: " Contains 
fluoride ". In addition, the following sentenc e should be included on the label: " The product is not suitable for 
infants and children under the age of seven years " where the product contains more than 2 mg/L fluorides. 
8.2.5  If the product contains less than 1000 mg/L total dissolved solids (salts) an appropriate descriptive 
term in close proximity of the name of the product, wh ich will distinguish the product from those containing 
more than 1000 mg/L total dissolved solids shall appear on  the label as part of, or in close proximity to, the 
name of the product or in an otherwise prominent position 
8.2.6  If the product contains more than 250 mg/L free ca rbon dioxide an appropriate descriptive term in 
close proximity of the name of the product, which will distinguish the product from those containing less than 
250 mg/L free carbon dioxide shall appear on the label as part of, or in close proximity to, the name of the 
product or in an otherwise prominent position. 
8.3 Labelling prohibitions 
8.3.1  No claims concerning medicinal (preventive, alleviat ive or curative) or other beneficial effects relating 
to the health of the consumer may be made in resp ect of the properties of the product covered by the 
standard. 
8.3.2  The name of the locality, hamlet or specified place shall not form part of the trade name unless it 
refers to a natural mineral water collected at the place designated by that trade name. 
8.3.3  Any statement or pictorial device, which may create confusion in the mind of the public or in any way 
mislead the public about the nature, origin, compositi on and properties of natural mineral waters put on sale 
shall not be used on the label. 
8.4 Optional labelling 
The following terms, descriptive of the particular proper ties of the product, may appear on the label as part of, or 
in close proximity to, the name of the product or in an otherwise prominent position, provided that conditions 
specified are adhered to: 
• "Alkaline", where the product contains more than 600 mg/L CHO 3; 
• "Acidulous", where the product contains more than 250 mg/L free carbon dioxide; 
• "Saline", where the product contains more than 1000 mg/L NaCl; 
• "Contains Fluorine", where the prod uct contains more than 1 mg/L F; 
• "Contains Irons", where the product contains more than 5 mg/L Fe; 
• "Contains Iodine", where the product contains more than 1 mg/L I; and US 43: 2008 
10 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 • "May be Diuretic", where the product contains more than 1 000 mg/L total dissolved solids or 600 
mg/L HCO 3 US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 11
 Annex A 
(normative) 
 
Requirements for hygiene in the packaging of natural mineral waters 
A.1 Sources of natural mineral water 
A.1.1 Authorization 
Any spring, well or drilling intended for the collection of natural mi neral water shall be approved by a 
competent authority having jurisdiction for the region. 
A.1.2 Determination of the genesis of natural mineral water 
As far as it is methodologically possible in each case , a precise analysis shall be carried out on the origin of 
natural mineral waters, the period of their residence in  the ground before being collected and their chemical 
and physical qualities. 
A.1.3 Perimeter of protection 
If possible areas wherein natural mineral water might be polluted or its chemical and physical qualities 
otherwise deteriorated should be deter mined by a hydrologist. Where indica ted by hydrogeological conditions 
and considering the risks of pollution and physical, chemical and biochemical reactions, several perimeters 
with separate dimensions may be provided for. 
A.1.4 Protective measures 
All possible precautions shall be taken within the protec ted perimeters to avoid any pollution, of or external 
influence on, the chemical and physical qualities of natural mineral water 
Regulations for the disposal of liquid, solid or gaseous waste, the use of substanc es that might deteriorate 
natural mineral water (for example, by  agriculture) as well as for any possibility of accidental deterioration of 
natural mineral water by natural occurrences such as a change in the hydrogeological conditions shall be 
complied with. 
 Particular consideration shall be gi ven to the following potential pollutant s: bacteria, viruses, fertilizers, 
hydrocarbons, detergents, pesticides, phenolic compounds, toxic metals, r adioactive substances and other 
soluble organic or inorganic substances.  Even where nat ure provides apparently sufficient protection against 
surface pollution, potential hazards shall be taken into consideration, such as mining, hydraulic and engineering 
facilities etc. 
A.2 Hygiene prescriptions for coll ection of natural mineral water 
A.2.1 Extraction 
The withdrawal of natural mineral water (from springs, galleries, genuine or drilled wells) shall be performed in 
conformity with the hydrogeological conditions in such  a manner as to prevent any other than the natural 
mineral water from entering or, should there be pumping facilities, prevent any extraneous water from entering 
by reducing the supply.  The natural mineral water th us collected or pumped shall be protected in such a way 
that it will be safe from pollution whether caused by natural occurrence or actions or neglect or ill will. US 43: 2008 
12 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 A.2.2 Materials 
The pipes, pumps or other possible devices coming into  contact with natural mineral water and used for its 
collection shall be made of such material as to guarantee t hat are original qualities of natural mineral water will 
not be changed. 
A.2.3 Protection of the extraction area 
In the immediate surroundings of springs and wells, pr ecautionary measures shall be taken to guarantee that 
no pollutant whatsoever could enter the extraction area.   The extraction area shall be inaccessible to non-
authorized people by providing adequate devices (for example, enclosure).  Any use not aiming at the 
collection of natural mineral water shall be forbidden in this area. 
A.2.4 Exploitation of natural mineral water 
The condition of the extraction facilitie s, areas of extraction and perimeter protection as  well as the quality of 
the natural mineral water shall periodically be checked.  To control the stability of the chemical and physical 
particulars of the natural mineral water derived, beside s the natural variations, auto matic measurements of the 
typical characteristics of water shall be carried out and notified (for example, electrical conductance, 
temperature, content of carbon dioxide) or frequent partial analysis shall be done. 
A.2.5 Maintenance of extraction facilities 
A.2.5.1 Technical aspects 
Methods and procedures for mainta ining the extraction facilities sha ll be hygienic and not be a potential 
hazard to human health or a source of contamination to  natural mineral water. From the hygiene standpoint, 
servicing of the extraction installations shall meet th e same standards as those required for the bottling or 
treatment. 
A.2.5.2 Equipment and reservoirs 
Equipment and reservoirs used for extraction of natural mineral water shall be constructed and maintained in 
order to minimize all hazards to human health and to avoid contamination. 
A.2.5.3 Storage at the point of extraction 
The quantity of natural mineral water stored at the point of extraction shall be as low as possible.  The storing 
shall furthermore guarantee protection a gainst contamination or deterioration. 
A.3 Transport of natural mineral water 
A.3.1 Means of transport, piping and reservoirs 
Any vehicle, piping or reservoir used in the processing of natural mineral water from its source to the bottling 
facilities, the latter included, shall  conform to the nec essary requirements and be made of inert material such 
as ceramic and stainless steel which prevents any deter ioration, be it by water, handling, servicing or 
disinfection; it shall allow easy cleaning. 
A.3.2 Maintenance of vehicles and reservoirs 
Any vehicle or reservoir shall be properly cleaned and if  necessary disinfected and kept in good repair so as 
not to present any danger of contamination to natural mineral water and of deterioration of the essential 
qualities of natural mineral water. US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 13
 A.4 Design and facilities for natural mi neral waters processing establishment  
A.4.1 Location 
Establishments shall be located in areas, which are free from objectionable odours, smoke, dust or other 
contaminants and are not subject to flooding. 
A.4.2 Roadways and areas used by wheeled traffic 
Such roadways and areas serving the establishment, wh ich are within its boundaries or in its immediate 
vicinity, shall have a hard paved surface suitable for w heeled traffic.  There shall be adequate drainage and 
provision shall be made for protection of the extraction  area in accordance with A.4.3.2 where appropriate and 
to allow for cleaning.  Adequate road signals may be provided to call the attention of road users to the 
existence of natural miner al water extraction area. 
A.4.3 Building and facilities 
A.4.3.1 General  
A.4.3.1.1  Buildings and facilities shall be of  sound construction in accordance  with the provisions of A.2.3 
and maintained in good repair. 
A.4.3.1.2  Rooms for recreation, for storing or packaging of raw material and areas for the cleaning of 
containers to be reused shall be apart from the bo ttling areas to prevent the end product from being 
contaminated.  Raw and packaging materials and any other additions, which come into contact with natural 
mineral water, shall be stored apart from other material. 
A.4.3.1.3  Adequate working space shall be provided to allow for satisfactory performance of all operations. 
A.4.3.1.4  The design shall be such as to permit easy and adequate cleaning and to facilitate proper 
supervision of natural mineral water hygiene. 
A.4.3.1.5  The buildings and facilities shall be designed to provide separation by partition, location or other 
effective means between those operations,  which may cause cross-contamination. 
A.4.3.1.6  Buildings and facilities shall be designed to facilitate hygienic operations by means of a regulated 
flow in the process from the arrival of the natural mineral water at the premises to the finished product, and 
shall provide for appropriate temperature conditions for the process and the product. 
A.4.3.1.7  In natural mineral water handling areas all overhead structures and fittings shall be installed in 
such a manner as to avoid contamination directly or i ndirectly of natural mineral water and raw materials by 
condensation and drip, and shall not hamper cleaning ope rations. They shall be insulated where appropriate 
and be so designed and finished as to prevent the accumula tion of dirt and to minimize condensation, mould 
development and flaking. They shall be easy to clean. 
A.4.3.1.8  Living quarters, toilets and areas where animals ar e kept shall be completely separated from and 
shall not open directly to natural mineral water handling areas. 
A.4.3.1.9  Where appropriate, establishments shall be so designed that access can be controlled. 
A.4.3.1.10  The use of material, which cannot be adequately cleaned and disinfected, such as wood, shall be 
avoided unless its use would not be a source of contamination. 
 US 43: 2008 
14 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 A.4.3.2 Handling, storing and bottling areas 
A.4.3.2.1 Floors 
Where appropriate, floors shall be of waterproof, non- absorbent, washable, non-slip and non-toxic materials, 
without crevices, and shall be easy to clean and disinfect. Where appropriate, floors should slope sufficiently 
for liquids to drain to trapped outlets. 
A.4.3.2.2 Walls 
Where appropriate, walls should be of waterproof, non-absorbent, washable and non-toxic materials and should be light coloured. Up to a height appropriat e for the operation they should be smooth and without 
crevices, and should be easy to clean and disinfect. Where appropriate, angles between walls, between walls and floors, and between walls and ceilings should be sealed and smoothened to facilitate cleaning. 
A.4.3.2.3 Ceilings 
These shall be so designed, constructed and finished as  to prevent the accumulation of dirt and minimize 
condensation, mould development and flaking, and shall be easy to clean. 
A.4.3.2.4 Windows 
Windows and other openings shall be so constructed as to avoid accumulation of dirt and those which open 
should be fitted with screens.  Screens should be easily movable for cleaning and kept in good repair.  Internal 
windowsills, if present, should be sl oped to prevent use as shelves. 
A.4.3.2.5 Doors 
Doors shall have smooth, non-absorbent surfaces and, where appropriate, be self-closing and close fitting. 
A.4.3.2.6 Stairs, lift cag es and auxiliary structures 
Examples of these structures such as platforms, ladders , chutes shall be situated and constructed so as not to 
cause contamination to food. Chutes shall be constructed with inspec tion and cleaning hatches. 
A.4.3.2.7 Piping 
Piping for natural water lines shall be independent of potable and non-potable water. 
A.4.3.3 Canalization, drainage lines 
Canalization and drainage and used water lines as we ll as any possible waste storage area within the 
protected perimeter shall be built and maintained in such a manner as not to presen t any risk whatsoever of 
polluting aquifers and springs. 
A.4.3.4 Fuel storage area 
Any storage area or tank for the storing of fuels such as coal or hydrocarbons s hall be designed, protected, 
controlled and maintained in such a manner as not to present a risk of aquifers and springs being polluted during the storage and manipul ation of these fuels. US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 15
 A.4.4 Hygiene facilities 
A.4.4.1 Water supply 
A.4.4.1.1  Ample supply of potable water under adequate pressure and suitable temperature shall be 
available with adequate facilities for its storage, wher e necessary, and distribution with adequate protection 
against contamination. 
A.4.4.1.2 Natural mineral water, potable water, non potable water for steam production or for refrigeration 
or any other use shall be carried in separate lines with no cross connection between them and without any 
chance of back siphonage. It would be desirable that these lines be identified by different colours. Steam used 
in direct contact with natural mineral water and natural mineral water contact surfaces shall contain no 
substances, which may be hazardous to health or may contaminate the food. 
A.4.4.2 Effluent and waste disposal 
Establishments shall have an efficient effluent and waste disposal system, which shall at all times be maintained in good order and repair. All effluent lines (i ncluding sewer systems) shall be large enough to carry 
full loads and shall be so constructed as to avoid contamination of potable water supplies. 
A.4.4.3 Changing facilities and toilets 
Adequate, suitable and conveniently located changing facilities and toilets shall be provided in all 
establishments. Toilets shall be so designed as to ensure  hygienic removal of waste matter. These areas shall 
be well lighted, ventilated and where appropriate heated, and  shall not open directly to natural mineral water 
handling areas. Hand washing facilities with warm or hot  and cold water, a suitable hand-cleaning preparation, 
and with suitable hygienic means of drying hands, shall be provided adjacent to toilets and in such a position 
that the employee will have to use them when returning to the processing area.  Where hot and cold water are 
available mixing taps shall be provided.  Where paper to wels are used, a sufficient number of dispensers and 
receptacles shall be provided near each washing facility. Care shall be taken that these receptacles for used paper towels are regularly emptied. Taps of a non-hand operatable type are desirable. Notices shall be posted 
directing personnel to wash their hands after using the toilet. 
A.4.4.4 Hand washing facilities in natural mineral water processing areas 
Adequate and conveniently located facilities for hand washing and drying shall be provided wherever the 
process demands. Where appropriate, facilities for hand disinfection shall also be provided. Warm or hot and 
cold water shall be available and taps for mixing the two shall be provided. There shall be suitable hygienic 
means of drying hands.  Where paper towels are used,  a sufficient number of dispensers and receptacles 
shall be provided adjacent to each washing facility. T aps of a non-hand operatable type are desirable. The 
facilities shall be furnished with properly trapped waste pipes leading to drains. 
A.4.4.5 Disinfection facilities 
Where appropriate, adequate facilities or cleaning and disinfection of working implements and equipment shall 
be provided.  These facilities shall be constructed of corrosion resistant  materials, capable of being easily 
cleaned, and shall be fitted with suitable means of su pplying hot and cold water in sufficient quantities. 
A.4.4.6 Lighting 
Adequate natural or artificial lighting shall be provided  throughout the establishment. Where appropriate, the 
lighting shall not alter colours and the intensity shall not be less than: 
• 540 lux (50 foot candles) at all inspection points; 
• 220 lux (20 foot candles) in work rooms; and US 43: 2008 
16 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 • 110 lux (10 foot candles) in other areas. 
Light bulbs and fixtures suspended over natural minera l water in any stage of production shall be of a safer 
type and protected to prevent contamination of natural mineral water in case of breakage. 
A.4.4.7 Ventilation 
Adequate ventilation shall be provided to prevent ex cessive heat, steam condensation and dust and to 
remove contaminated air. The direction of the airflo w shall never be from a dirty area to a clean area. 
Ventilation openings shall be provided with a screen or other protecting enclosure of non-corrodible material. 
Screens shall be easily removable for cleaning. 
A.4.4.8 Facilities for storage of  waste and inedible material 
Facilities shall be provided for the storage of waste and inedible material prior to removal from the 
establishment. These facilities shall be designed to prev ent access to waste or inedible material by pests and 
to avoid contamination of natural mineral water, po table water, equipment, buildings or roadways on the 
premises. 
A.4.5 Equipment and utensils 
A.4.5.1 Materials 
All equipment and utensils used in natural mineral wate r handling areas and which may contact the natural 
mineral water shall be made of material which  
a) does not transmit toxic substances, odour or taste,  
b) is non-absorbent,  
c) is resistant to corrosion and  
d) is capable of withstanding r epeated cleaning and disinfection.  
Surfaces shall be smooth and free from pits and crevices. The use of wood and other materials, which cannot be adequately cleaned and disinfected, shall be avoided  except when their use would be a source of 
contamination. The use of different ma terials is exercised in such a way that contact corrosion that can occur 
shall be avoided. 
A.4.5.2 Hygienic design, construction and installation 
All equipment and utensils shall be designed and constructed so as to prevent hazards and permit easy and thorough cleaning and disinfection. 
A.5 Hygiene requirements for the stablishment 
A.5.1 Maintenance 
The buildings, equipment, utensils and all other physical fa cilities of the establishment, including drains, shall 
be maintained in good repair and in an orderly condition.  As far as practicable, rooms shall be kept protected 
from steam, vapour and surplus water. 
A.5.2 Cleaning and disinfection 
A.5.2.1 Cleaning and disinfection shall meet the requirements of this standard. US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 17
 A.5.2.2 To prevent contamination of natural mineral wa ter, all equipment and utensils shall be cleaned as 
frequently as necessary and disinfecte d, whenever circumstances demand. 
A.5.2.3 Adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent nat ural mineral water from being contaminated 
during cleaning or disinfection of rooms, equipment or utensils, by water and detergents or by disinfectants and 
their solutions. Detergents and disinfectants shall be su itable for the purpose intended and shall be acceptable to 
the official agency having jurisdiction. Any residues of these agents on a surface, which may come in contact 
with natural mineral water, shall be removed by thorough rinsing with water, before the area or equipment is again used for handling natural mineral water. 
A.5.2.4 Either immediately after cessation of work for the day or at such other times as may be appropriate, 
floors, including drains, auxiliary structures and walls of  natural mineral water handling areas shall be thoroughly 
cleaned. 
A.5.2.5 Changing facilities and toilets shall be kept clean at all times. 
A.5.2.6 Roadways and yards in the immediate vicinity of and  serving the premises shall be kept clean. 
A.5.3 Hygiene control programme 
A permanent cleaning and disinfection schedule shall be dr awn up for each establishment to ensure that all 
areas are appropriately cleaned and that critical areas, equipment and material are designated for special 
attention. An individual, who shall preferably be a perm anent member of the staff of the establishment and 
whose duties shall be independent of production, shall be appointed to be responsible for the cleanliness of 
the establishment. He shall have a thorough understand ing of the significance of contamination and the 
hazards involved. All cleaning personnel shall be well trained in cleaning techniques. 
A.5.4 Storage and disposal of waste 
Waste material shall be handled in such a manner as to avoid contamination of natural mineral water or 
potable water. Care shall be taken to prevent access to waste by pests. Waste shall be removed from the natural mineral water handling and other working areas as often as necessary and at least daily.  Immediately 
after disposal of the waste, receptacles used for stor age and any equipment, which has come into contact with 
the waste, shall be cleaned and disinf ected. The waste storage area shall also be cleaned and disinfected. 
A.5.5 Exclusion of animals 
Animals that are uncontrolled or that could be a hazard to health shall be excluded from establishments. 
A.5.6 Pest control 
A.5.6.1 There shall be an effective and continuous progra mme for the control of pests. Establishments 
and surrounding areas shall be regularly examined for evidence of infestation. 
A.5.6.2 Shall pests gain entrance to the establishment, er adication measures shall be instituted. Control 
measures involving treatment with  chemical, physical or biological agents shall only be undertaken by or 
under direct supervision of personnel who have a thor ough understanding of the potential hazards to health 
resulting from the use of these agents, including those hazards which may arise from residues retained in the natural mineral water, such measures shall only be carried out in accordance with the recommendations of the official agency having jurisdiction. 
A.5.6.3 Pesticides shall only be used if other precautionary  measures cannot be used effectively. Before 
pesticides are applied, care shall be taken to safeguar d natural mineral water equipment and utensils from 
contamination. After application, c ontaminated equipment and utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned to remove 
residues prior to being used again. US 43: 2008 
18 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 A.5.7 Storage of hazardous substances 
A.5.7.1 Pesticides or other substances, which may present  a hazard to health, shall be suitably labelled 
with a warning about their toxicity and use. They shall be stored in locked rooms or cabinets used only for that 
purpose and dispersed and handled only by authorized and properly trained personnel or by persons under 
strict supervision of trained person nel. Extreme care shall be taken to avoid contamination of natural mineral 
water. 
A.5.7.2 Except when necessary for hygienic or pr ocessing purposes, no su bstance which could 
contaminate natural mineral water shall be used or  stored in natural mineral water handling areas. 
A.5.8 Personal effects and clothing 
Personal effects and clothing shall not be deposi ted in natural mineral water handling areas. 
A.6 Personnel hygiene and health requirements 
A.6.1 Hygiene training 
Managers of establishments shall arrange for adequate and continuous training of all natural mineral handlers 
in hygienic handling of natural mineral water and in per sonal hygiene so that they understand the precautions 
necessary to prevent contaminat ion of natural mineral water. 
A.6.2 Medical examination 
Persons who come into contact with natural mineral wa ter in the course of their work shall have a medical 
examination prior to employment if the official agency having jurisdiction,  acting on medical advice, considers 
that this is necessary, whether because of epidemio logical considerations or the medical history of the 
prospective natural mineral water handler. Medical exam ination of natural mineral water handlers shall be 
carried out at other times when clinica lly or epidemiologically indicated. 
A.6.3 Communicable diseases 
The management shall take care to ensure that no pers on, while known or suspected to be suffering from, or 
to be a carrier of a disease likely to be transmitted thro ugh food or while afflicted with infected wounds, skin 
infections, sores or with diarrhoea, is permitted to work in any natural mineral water handling area in any 
capacity in which there is any likelih ood of such a person directly or indi rectly contaminating natural mineral 
water with pathogenic micro-organisms. Any person so affected shall immediately report to the management. 
A.6.4 Injuries 
Any persons who has a cut or wound shall not continue to handle natural mineral water or natural mineral 
water contact surfaces until the injury is completely prot ected by a waterproof coveri ng which is firmly secured, 
and which is conspicuous in colour. Adequate first-aid facilities shall be provided for this purpose. 
A.6.5 Washing of hands 
Every person, while on duty in a natural mineral water handling area, shall wash his hands frequently and 
thoroughly with a suitable hand cleaning preparation under running water. Hands shall always be washed before commencing work, immediately after us ing the toilet, after handling contaminated material and whenever else 
necessary. After handling any material, which might be  capable of transmitting disease, hands shall be washed 
and disinfected immediately. Notices requiring hand washing shall be displayed. There shall be adequate supervision to ensure complianc e with this requirement. US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 19
 A.6.6 Personal cleanliness 
Every person engaged in a natural mineral water handling area shall maintain a high degree of personal 
cleanliness while on duty, and shall at all times while so  engaged, wear suitable protective clothing including 
head covering and footwear, all of which shall be cle anable, unless designed to be disposed of and shall be 
maintained in a clean condition consistent with the natu re of the work in which the person is engaged. Aprons 
and similar items shall not be washed on the floor. When natural mineral water is manipulated by hand, any 
jewellery that cannot be adequately disinfected shall be removed from the hands. Personnel shall not wear 
any insecure jewellery when engaged in handling of natural mineral water. 
A.6.7 Personal behaviour 
Any behaviour, which could result in contamination of natur al mineral water, such as eating, use of tobacco, 
chewing (for example, gum, sticks, bet el nuts, etc) or unhygienic practices su ch as spitting, shall be prohibited 
in natural mineral water handling areas. 
A.6.8 Visitors 
Precautions shall be taken to prevent visitors to natural mineral water handling areas from contaminating the 
product. These may include the use of protective clothi ng. Visitors shall observe the provisions recommended 
in paragraph A.5.8, A. 6.3, A.6.4 and A.6.7. 
A.6.9 Supervision 
Responsiblity for ensuring compliance by all personnel wi th all requirements of A.6.1 to A.6.8 inclusive shall 
be specifically allocated to competent supervisory personnel. 
A.7 Hygienic processing requirements for the establishment 
A.7.1 Raw material requirements 
To guarantee a good and stable quality of natural mineral wa ter, certain criteria shall be monitored regularly, 
namely, 
a) spring discharge, temperature of the natural mineral water. 
b) appearance of the natural mineral water. 
c) odour and taste of the natural mineral water. 
d) conductance of natural mineral water or any other adequate parameter. 
e) microbiological flora. 
A.7.2 Compliance with the standard 
Shall there be a perceptible lack in meeting the standards, the necessary corrective measures are 
immediately to be taken. 
A.7.3 Treatment 
A.7.3.1 The treatment may include decantation, filtrati on, airing and where necessary application of off 
takes of carbon dioxide. 
A.7.3.2 Processing shall be supervised by  technically competent personnel. US 43: 2008 
20 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 A.7.3.3 All steps in the production process, including pa ckaging, shall be performed without unnecessary 
delay and under conditions which will prevent the possi bility of contamination, deterioration, or the 
development of pathogenic and spoilage micro-organisms. 
A.7.3.4 Rough treatment of contai ners shall be avoided to prevent th e possibility of contamination of the 
processed product. 
A.7.3.5 Treatment such as necessary controls shall be such as to protect against contamination or 
development of a public health hazard and against deterior ation within the limits of good commercial practice. 
A.7.4 Packaging material and containers 
A.7.4.1  All packaging material shall be stored in a cle an and hygienic manner. The material shall be 
appropriate for the product to be packed and for the ex pected conditions of storage and shall not transmit to 
the product objectionable substances beyond the limits acceptable to the official agency having jurisdiction. 
The packaging material shall be sound and shall provid e appropriate protection from contamination. Only 
packaging material required for immediate use s hall be kept in the packing or filling area. 
A.7.4.2 Product containers shall not have been used for an y purpose that may lead to contamination of 
the product. In the case of new contai ners if there is a possibility that they have been contami nated, they shall 
be cleaned and disinfected.  When chemicals are used fo r these purposes, the container shall be rinsed as 
prescribed under A. 5.2.3. Containers shall be well drained after rinsing. Used and, when necessary, unused 
containers shall be inspected immediately before filling. 
A.7.5 Filling and sealing of containers 
A.7.5.1  Packaging shall be done under conditions that pr eclude the introduction of contaminants into the 
product. 
A.7.5.2 The methods, equipment and material used for sealing shall guarantee a tight and impervious 
sealing and shall not damage the containers nor deteriora te the chemical bacteriological and organoleptic 
qualities of natural mineral water. 
A.7.6 Packaging of containers 
The packaging of containers shall protect the latter from contamination and damage and allow appropriate 
handling and storing. 
A.7.7 Lot identification 
Each container shall be permanently marked in code or in clear to identify the producing factory and the lot. A 
lot is quantity of natural mineral water produced under identical conditions, all packages of which shall bear a lot number that identifies the production during a particular time, interval, and usually from a particular "line" or 
other critical processing unit. 
A.7.8 Processing and production records 
Permanent, legible and dated records of pertinent proces sing and production details shall be kept concerning 
each lot. These records shall be retained for a period that exceeds the shelf life of the product. Records shall also be kept of the initial distribution by lot. 
A.7.9 Storage and transport of the end product 
The end-product shall be stored and transported under su ch conditions as will preclude contamination with 
and/or proliferation of micro-organisms and protect against deterioration of the product or damage to the container. During storage, periodic inspection of the end product shall take place to ensure that only natural US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 21
 mineral water, which is fit for human consumption, is dispatched and that end-product  specifications shall be 
complied with. US 43: 2008 
22 © UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved
 Annex B 
(normative) 
 
Sampling plan for mineral water 
B.1 General requirements of sampling 
In drawing, preparing, storing and handling samples, the following precautions and directions shall be 
observed as far as possible: 
a) samples shall be drawn in original sealed bottle/container and kept in protected places not exposed to 
damp air, dust or soot; and 
b) Each bottle/container in original shall be s ealed and marked with full details of sampling. 
B.2 Scale of sampling 
B.2.1 The quantity of packed mineral water of the same ty pe belonging to the same batch of manufacture and 
packed in a day, shall constitute a lot. 
B.2.2 For ascertaining the conformity of the material to the requirements of the specification, samples shall be 
tested from each lot separately. 
B.2.3 The number of bottles to be selected from a lot shall depend on the size of the lot and shall be according 
to Table B.1. 
Table B.1 — Scale of sampling 
Number of containers in the lot  Sample size  
Up to 5000 3 
5001 to 10000 5 
10001 to 15000 7 
15001 and above 9 
 
The bottles shall be chosen at random from the lot.  In order to ensure the randomness of selection, 
procedure given in ISO 4905, Methods for random sampling , shall be followed. 
B.2.4 Initially the number of cartons equal to the number of bottles to be taken from the lot (according to 
Table B.1) shall be chosen at random. These cartons t hus selected shall be opened and the bottles in these 
cartons examined visually for the condition of packing, external appearance and the fill.  The lot shall be 
considered satisfactory for inspection of other characteristics given in the specification, if all the bottles in the 
cartons opened are found satisfacto ry for these ch aracteristics. 
B.2.5 In case of any defective bottle is found accordin g to B.2.4, twice the number of cartons shall be 
opened and the bottle examined for these characteristics.  If no defective bottle is found, the lot shall be 
considered satisfactory of inspection of other characteristics given in the specification. US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008 – All rights reserved 23
 B.3 Preparation of test samples 
B.3.1 From each of the cartons opened according to B.2.4,  three bottles shall be taken from its different 
layers so as to obtain three times the required nu mber of bottles in the sample (see Table B.1). 
B.3.2 In case the number of cartons to be opened is acco rding to B.2.4, the number of cartons equal to the 
number of bottles in the sample shall be taken at ran dom from these cartons and t hen the required number of 
bottles picked up according to B.3.1. 
B.3.3 The sample bottles selected as in B.3.1 or B.3.2 shall be divided at random into three equal sets and 
labelled with all the particulars of sampling. One of thes e sets of sampled bottles shall be for the purchaser, 
another for the vendor and the third for the referee. 
B.3.4  The referee sample shall consist of a set of samp le bottles marked for this purpose and shall bear the 
deals of the purchaser and the supplier.  These shall be kept at a place agreeable to the purchaser and the 
supplier so as to be used in case of a dispute between the two. 
B.4 Criteria for conformity 
The lot shall be declared as conforming to the requirements of the relevant specification if all the parameters 
are satisfied. 
 US 43: 2008 
© UNBS 2008– All rights reserved 24
 Certification marking 
Products that conform to Uganda standards may be  marked with Uganda National Bureau of Standards 
(UNBS) Certification Mark shown in the figure below.  
The use of the UNBS Certification Mark is gove rned by the Standards Act, and the Regulations made 
thereunder. This mark can be used only by those licens ed under the certification mark scheme operated by 
the Uganda National Bureau of Standards and in co njunction with the relevant Uganda Standard. The 
presence of this mark on a product or in relation to a product is an assurance that  the goods  conform to the 
requirements of that standard under a system of supervision, control and  testing in accordance with the 
certification mark scheme of the Uganda National  Bureau of Standards. UNBS marked products are 
continually checked by UNBS for conformity to that standard.  
Further particulars of the terms and conditions of  licensing may be obtained from the Director, Uganda 
National Bureau of Standards.  
 
 US 43: 2008 
 
ICS nn.nnn.nn  
Price based on 29 pages 
© UNBS 2008– All rights reserved