The suspension of production and distribution of “Tannourine” brand water was lifted on Saturday afternoon by the Ministry of Public Health, five days after it was put in place due to a risk of contamination by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine said at a press conference that after complaints were posted on social media about a possible problem with Tannourine water, an epidemiology team “took six samples from the Lebanese market.”
“These were then sent to Rafic Hariri Hospital, an accredited laboratory. Three of them revealed contamination,” the minister continued.
“We later collected eleven additional samples directly from the factory, one of which contained the same bacteria,” he added.
“Further analyses were carried out on the water source, storage tanks, and other products available on the market. All these tests came back clean and free of bacteria. The company also addressed the technical observations that were raised. As a precautionary measure, we had decided on a temporary suspension.”
On X, MP Strida Geagea wrote: “After following the press conference held by Public Health Minister Dr. Rakan Nassereddine, I wish to express my sincere thanks and deep appreciation for the sense of national responsibility and integrity he demonstrated in his rigorous handling of the Tannourine case. This public health matter concerns all Lebanese, as it directly affects their health and safety.”
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