French Government Accused of Aiding Nestlé in Water Regulation Violations

Investigations reveal alleged complicity between state officials and Nestlé to bypass safety standards for bottled water production.

Reports from Le Monde and Radio France allege that Nestlé used illegal filtration methods for its bottled water, raising health and safety concerns.
Government officials reportedly ignored multiple warnings and recommendations from health agencies to suspend Nestlé's operations in France.
Documents suggest extensive lobbying by Nestlé, including meetings with top government officials, to secure regulatory exemptions.
A 2023 report by the health directorate highlighted microbiological risks in Nestlé's water due to non-compliant filtration methods.
The Élysée and Matignon deny direct involvement, while Nestlé faces a judicial investigation for consumer deception initiated in late 2024.