September 01, 2008 - As Muslims observe Ramadan, the Agency is reminding consumers to avoid drinking Zam Zam water of uncertain origin, as it may contain high levels of arsenic.
Zam Zam water is sacred to Muslims. Genuine Zam Zam water comes from a specific source in Saudi Arabia and, under Saudi law, cannot legally be exported from that country for commercial sale. Any water that is labelled as Zam Zam in the UK is therefore of uncertain origin.
The possible risks
Tests carried out on water labelled as Zam Zam water in the UK over the past few years has indicated the presence of arsenic at almost three times the legal limit, which could contribute to increasing people’s risk of cancer.
Although, in practice, the occasional drinking of small amounts of water would be a very low risk to health, based on the levels found previously, the Agency is again advising consumers not to drink any water on sale labelled as Zam Zam water.
If consumers find any water on sale that is labelled as Zam Zam, they should contact the local authority enforcement office at their local council so they can take appropriate action.