BOSTON -The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) issued a warning on Wednesday, March 20, against the consumption and purchase of bottled water from Simpson Spring Company, based in Easton.
Consumers are strongly advised to avoid Simpson Spring water and dispose of any existing products by draining the water and recycling the containers because of excessive levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) detected in their products.
PFAS, a group of synthetic chemicals found in various consumer and industrial products since the 1940s, have been linked to several health risks. The DPH’s discovery is a result of ongoing monitoring efforts, which include testing bottled water for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
Tests conducted at Simpson Spring’s facility on February 21 and March 11, 2024, revealed PFAS levels above Massachusetts’ drinking water standards. Simpson Spring has halted its bottling operations and disconnected vending machines as per DPH’s directive.
DPH also cited violations in Simpson Spring manufacturing practices. Residents are urged to refrain from using Simpson Spring water until further updates are provided. DPH’s Food Protection Program will continue to monitor the situation and work with Simpson Spring to correct the violations.
