Massachusetts DPH: Don’t Drink Simpson Spring Until Further Notice

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued an advisory warning people not to consume water that comes from Easton-based Simpson Spring due to contamination.

According to the DPH, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS contamination, was found in water bottled and distributed by the company.

The advisory relates not only to bottled water, but also to the water available at Simpson Spring self-serve water vending machines.

“Consumers are urged not to consume any Simpson Spring products until further notice,” the DPH said in a release.

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Simpson Spring also operates the oldest soda bottling operation in the country, dating back to 1878. The water used in both the drinking water and sodas comes from the spring itself.

The DPH collected water samples from the Easton facility on February 21 and collected samples that confirmed the high level of PFAS on March 11.

“PFAS are a group of manufactured chemicals used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s,” the DPH said. “Current scientific research suggests that exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes.”

According to the DPH, Simpson Spring said on March 1 “that it would voluntarily cease bottling operations temporarily and disconnect its vending machines until the issue is resolved.”

If you do have Simpson Spring water in your home or business, the DPH says you should pour the water down the drain and recycle any plastic container.

The company's website appeared to be offline Wednesday evening.