Parliament has passed in first reading changes to the Food Act that affect bottled mineral water. The bill was put forward by the Council of Ministers.

The aim is to bring Bulgarian law fully in line with the EU's Mineral Waters Directive 2009/54/EC. The European Commission has opened infringement procedure 2020/4042 against Bulgaria, and the changes address its criticism.

The law adds two new terms: "deposit" and "groundwater body". A new regulation will follow, setting the requirements for bottled natural mineral water, spring water and table water for drinking. The law must ensure the rule "one source - one commercial description".

The changes also cover the approval of the ways these waters are treated. The requirements, deadlines, procedure and documents needed will now be set out clearly, in line with the general rules of the law on limiting administrative regulation.

MPs also clarify the wording on the health certificate for exports of bottled water. Bulgarian health authorities will issue the certificate, and its type and content must meet the requirements of the country that imports the water.

The Health Act is also being amended. The changes concern health certificates for exports of Bulgarian products and goods that matter for people's health. The idea is to make the rules in this area the same.

According to the government's explanatory notes, the changes should protect the life, health and interests of consumers. They should also ensure that EU law and Bulgarian rules on fewer harmful substances in the production, processing and distribution of food are applied.

The authors of the bill also expect less red tape and better service for business and the public.