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FDA warns public vs. devices that can make tap water 'alkaline,' 'oxygenated'


The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the consuming public not to fall prey to vendors of equipment or devices that would change tap water or bottled water into “alkaline” or “oxygenated” water.

In an advisory issued Friday, the FDA said claims that devices being sold can transform tap water into "alkaline" or "oxygenated" shall be "substantiated through valid clinical trials."

"Consumers are advised not to fall prey to these unscrupulous vendors and peddlers. Drinking alkaline, oxygenated or ionized water does not change the blood pH level," the FDA said.

The agency emphasized that the sale of purification devices that allegedly produce water known as “alkaline water” or “oxygenated water” and make therapeutic claims without a Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) is a violation of Republic Act No. 9711, otherwise known as the FDA Act of 2009.

"Vendo-type outlets or refilling stations, and those engaged in the manufacture, importation and distribution of water with therapeutic claims shall secure a License to Operate [LTO] from FDA before applying for a CPR," it said.

The FDA also warned all companies engaged in the business of supplying drinking water in containers with specific claims, such as “alkaline water” or “oxygenated water” to secure LTO from FDA and apply for a CPR.

The FDA Act of 2009 (RA 9711) prohibits selling, offering for sale, distribution, advertisement, and promotion, among other marketing and advertisement activities, of unregistered health products.

"All local Government Units (LGUs) and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) are requested to ensure that this kind of products are not sold or made available in localities or areas of jurisdiction," it said.

The FDA also urged the public to check if a product is registered with the agency by logging in at its website and typing the name of the product in the search bar. —Ted Cordero/KG, GMA News

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