Poland Spring, a widely recognized bottled water brand owned by Primo Brands (formerly Nestlé Waters North America), has been embroiled in a long-running lawsuit alleging false labeling and deceptive marketing practices. Plaintiffs contend that the famous “100% Natural Spring Water” label is misleading, arguing that the water does not actually come from natural springs as advertised.
Poland Spring Water Lawsuit
Background of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit was initially filed in 2017 by a group of consumers from several states, including Maine, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. They claim that not one drop of Poland Spring water sold in the United States originates from an authentic natural spring.
Plaintiffs further allege that the actual source known as “Poland Spring” in Maine had run dry decades before Nestlé acquired the brand in 1992. Instead, the water sold is alleged to be sourced from man-made springs, groundwater wells, and surface water such as ponds or reservoirs, which do not meet the legal definition of spring water according to the FDA.
Main Allegations
- False Advertising: Marketing Poland Spring water as “100% Natural Spring Water” and “Natural Spring Water” is deceptive and causes consumers to pay premium prices under false pretenses.
- Deceptive Labeling Practices: Use of branding and imagery suggests pristine natural origins that do not align with the water’s actual source.
- Consumer Fraud: Alleging that consumers were misled into believing they were purchasing a higher-quality product.
Legal Proceedings and Court Ruling
In January 2025, U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Alker Meyer denied the motion to dismiss the lawsuit, allowing the case to continue. The judge recognized unresolved factual questions about whether Poland Spring qualifies as spring water under state and federal laws, keeping claims alive in multiple states.
Meyer cited expert testimony that pointed to Nestlé’s use of artificial springs and surface water, raising genuine issues about the accuracy of the spring water claims on the bottles.
Company Response
Primo Brands, which acquired Poland Spring after Nestlé’s sale of its bottled water business, has maintained that the water is sourced from numerous natural springs and that their labeling complies with FDA regulations.
The company emphasizes its commitment to transparency and defending against allegations it considers meritless, asserting that state agencies have authorized the sale of Poland Spring as spring water.
Previous Related Lawsuit
Poland Spring faced a similar lawsuit in 2003, which was settled with Nestlé offering approximately $8 million in consumer discounts and more than $2 million in charitable donations. This settlement addressed claims that labels misleadingly suggested the water came from untouched wilderness when the source was closer to developed areas.
Consumer Implications
- Consumers should be aware of the ongoing litigation and scrutinize product labeling claims.
- Alternatives like filtered tap water or home filtration systems may offer cost-effective and environmentally friendly options.
- Those believing they were misled by Poland Spring marketing might explore legal avenues as cases develop further.
Conclusion
The Poland Spring water lawsuit represents a significant consumer protection challenge in the premium bottled water industry. It highlights questions about transparency, truth in advertising, and regulatory compliance related to food and beverage labeling.
The case continues to unfold in multiple jurisdictions and serves as a reminder of the importance of substantiated claims and ethical marketing practices for trusted brands.
