FDA warns public vs misleading promos on alkaline, oxygenated water

Health authorities warn consumers against falling for what they called "misleading" claims and promotional ploys on so-called alkaline and oxygenated water.

The Food and Drug Administration noted the proliferation of stalls in malls offering devices that would change tap or bottled water into "alkaline" or "oxygenated" water.

"Vendors make declarations and promises to potential buyers that alkaline or oxygenated water removes every known chronic disease condition, acts as strong antioxidant, slows the aging process, and promotes greater absorption of nutrients. They also claim that alkaline water is rich in oxygen and that increased amount of oxygen boosts physical performance," the FDA said in an entry on the Department of Health's Facebook account.

However, the FDA's Advisory No. 2014-010 pointed out drinking such water does not necessarily improve one's health.

"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," it said.

It also pointed out therapeutic claims made on drinking water must be substantiated through valid clinical trials.

Because of this, it said the sale of devices that produce alkaline or oxygenated water without a Certificate of Product Registration violates RA 9711, the FDA Act of 2009.

"Vendo-type outlets or re-filling stations, and those engaged in the manufacture, importation and distribution of water with therapeutic claims should secure a License to Operate from the FDA before applying for a CPR," it added. — LBG, GMA News