Russia's "Chestny Znak" state marking system has suspended both online and offline retail sales of the Armenian mineral water brand "Jermuk." The decision comes amid concerns over potential health risks associated with a specific batch of the product currently in the Russian market.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, Revaz Yusupov, Deputy Director General of the Center for Research in Perspective Technologies, confirmed that approximately 338,000 bottles currently in circulation have been blocked until inspections are completed. The restrictions were implemented following a request to Rospotrebnadzor, Russia's consumer rights watchdog, to prevent potential harm to citizens. Officials noted that violations of mandatory safety requirements were detected in the products.
This is not the first instance of safety concerns involving the Armenian brand. In 2024, approximately 2.5 million bottles were withdrawn from the market following a poisoning incident in North Ossetia, where vinegar acid was discovered in a bottle instead of mineral water. The current suspension applies to products with specific production dates, and authorities have emphasized that the water will not reach consumers until a full safety verification is finalized. Such incidents often lead to stricter quality control measures for imported beverages in the region to ensure public safety and compliance with sanitary standards.