Samut Songkhram authorities raided two sites producing “fake coconut water” by mixing plain water with scent additives. Officials collected samples to test for heavy metal or hazardous chemical contamination. If found unsafe, the highest level of prosecution will be pursued immediately to set an example.
On 8 April 2026, a reporter reported that at 2:00 p.m. on 7 April 2026, at the 4th floor meeting room of the Samut Songkhram Provincial Hall, Mr. Chayachai Saeng-in, Governor of Samut Songkhram, urgently convened relevant agencies to follow up on the issue of counterfeit coconut water.
Mr. Chayachai revealed that the province has stepped up food safety measures and is seriously cracking down on counterfeit coconut water. There is a proactive policy to protect consumers, especially concerning “coconut water,” which is an important economic product and a source of pride for Samut Songkhram residents.
Following investigations and recent field inspections on 2 April 2026, officials searched two targeted “coconut processing” sites. Both failed to meet GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards, violating the Food Act of 1979 (B.E. 2522) and the law regarding permits for hazardous health-related businesses. Legal action has been taken accordingly.
Regarding product safety, officials found water mixed with flavor additives to mimic the taste and aroma of coconut water. Samples were sent to the Department of Medical Sciences for testing heavy metal or hazardous chemical contamination. If results confirm health hazards, the province will immediately pursue the highest legal penalties, including imprisonment and fines, to serve as a deterrent.
Mr. Chayachai added that Samut Songkhram has been continuously laying a sustainable foundation since late 2025, inspecting more than 15 coconut processing sites and encouraging new operators to properly comply with the standards of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
However, due to challenges in differentiating between “genuine coconut water” and “fake coconut water,” which remains a technical and legal issue nationwide, the province has closely coordinated with the FDA and the Department of Medical Sciences to develop accurate testing methods and establish unified standards for law enforcement.
To build public confidence, Samut Songkhram province affirms it will not ignore the problem and will take decisive legal action against irresponsible operators to protect public health and preserve the reputation of “Samut Songkhram coconut water.”
For operators, the province requests honest business practices. Those seeking to improve production standards properly will receive full support from relevant agencies, including production facilities, GMP standards, food safety, chemical testing, operating licenses, factory standards, price regulation, and cultivation guidance, with consultations and assistance offered to collectively elevate “Samut Songkhram coconut water” as a clean, safe product trusted by consumers worldwide.
If the public observes any suspicious illegal activity, they can report it to the Samut Songkhram Damrongtham Center at 1567 or 034-711678, or via the Traffy Fondue application for Samut Songkhram.