A public health warning has been issued against the consumption of coconut water that is being sold in recycled bottles.

The Meat and Food Hygiene Section of the Mayor and City Council is calling on citizens to desist from purchasing coconut water that has been placed in recycled bottles, a press release from the Public Relations Division said.

A series of inspections conducted in Georgetown by the health inspectorate revealed that the practice was prevalent around the city markets, the release added.  Moreover, the process involved in pouring coconut water into bottles was very unhygienic and can be hazardous to the health of the consumers.

Meanwhile, a meeting was held with coconut vendors and it was agreed that all coconut stalls should be five feet above the ground. It was also agreed that all stalls must be kept in a very clean condition and free from refuse and all coconut vendors should be properly uniformed.

According to the release, any coconut vendor who is found in breach of the agreement would be fined or prohibited from conducting such business in the city.