Scotland’s food watchdog is advising people not to drink the Macb brand of water as a “precaution”.

Customers had raised concerns over the smell and taste of the water, which is manufactured in Macduff, Aberdeenshire.

The Food Standards Scotland (FSS) said it was aware of an incident and an investigation was under way.

Macb said it had been made aware of a “quality issue” with its strawberry and kiwi flavour drink, but stressed it was not a food safety issue.

A spokesperson for the company said:

“We are aware of a quality issue relating to our Macb strawberry and kiwi still flavoured water in 1.5l and 330ml bottles, with a best before end date of August 2018.

“Please be assured that whilst the drink may be have a strong odour and be unpleasant to taste, this is not harmful and our other Macb bottle sizes and flavours are unaffected.

It added: “We apologise to anyone who has received a bad experience with any of our drinks and once again we would like to reassure customers that this is not a food safety issue and the product is harmless.”

The FSS has advised people not to drink the brand in the meantime.

It said: “Food Standards Scotland is aware of an investigation involving Macb strawberry & kiwi flavoured bottled water following reports by consumers of feeling unwell after drinking it, and is liaising with the food business and relevant enforcement authorities.

“Macb has voluntarily instigated a withdrawal of some of their products from sale. We will continue to work with the business regarding this investigation and further information will be issued as soon as it becomes available.

“In the meantime, as a precautionary measure, we would advise consumers not to drink Macb water.”