Consumers have been advised not to drink a batch of Macb flavoured water after a string of complaints about the taste and smell of the product.

Food Standards Scotland has issued the warning over strawberry and kiwi bottled water as a precaution after receiving numerous complaints.

Cott Beverages, which produces the spring water at its facility in MacDuff, Aberdeenshire, said it had launched a full investigation into the incident.

One Facebook user contacted the firm after complaining the product "smelled like paint thinner".

Food Standards Scotland 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."

A spokesman for Macb said: "We are aware of a quality issue relating to our Macb Strawberry & 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.

"We take our responsibility as a quality soft drink manufacturer very seriously and we are removing affected products from sale.

"If you believe you have an affected bottle please email our dedicated customer care team at customercare@cott.co.uk.

"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."