Key Findings

Based on the overall test findings, Rail Neer is the top performer. Next in ranking are McDowell’s and Bisleri. Rail Neer is also the value-for-money brand – it costs Rs 15 a litre, as against the general price of Rs 20 per litre. Except for Bailey, Aquafina, A4X and Royal Blue, all other brands were found to be meeting the requirements of Indian Standard. Aquafina, Royal Blue, Bailley and A4X had total colony count (of bacteria) higher than the maximum permissible limit set by Indian Standard. P. aeruginosa bacteria were also found in these four. Yeast and mould count was found in Aquafina. None of the brands was found surpassing the maximum permissible limit for various minerals, toxic substances and residual pesticides. In physical tests (colour, TDS, turbidity, pH), all brands met the requirement set by Indian Standard.