The Environmental Health Department (EHD) is currently investigating a complaint concerning bottled water branded as Gericó Water, which was imported aboard the Dominican vessel Don Augustin P that arrived in South Caicos on September 17, 2025.
The complaint, which reported a foul odor emanating from the product, has been assessed and found to have merit. According to the vessel’s cargo manifest, a total of 1,200 cases of Gericó Water were imported. At this time, the Department cannot confirm how many of these cases may be affected.
As a precautionary measure, EHD is advising all residents of South Caicos who purchased Gericó Water from the vessel to immediately discontinue use if a foul odor is detected and bring the product directly to the Environmental Health Department Office in South Caicos.
To determine the extent of the issue, the department will be collecting random samples from the affected inventory for testing at the National Public Health Laboratory.
The EHD remains committed to safeguarding public health and will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
Additionally, the department wishes to clarify that an advisory currently circulating via WhatsApp in South Caicos was not authorized for release. The message was an internal draft prepared for review that was inappropriately shared while the investigation is still ongoing. Official statements issued by the Environmental Health Department, such as this press release, are the only verified sources of information.
For additional information or guidance, please contact the Environmental Health Department at 338-6231 / 338-2143 / 338-2144.
