ASSESSMENT OF QUALITY OF LOCALLY PRODUCED SACHET WATER IN ULI AND IHIALA MUNICIPAL AREAS OF ANAMBRA STATE, SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The shortage of potable water has forced the public dependence on packaged sachet drinking water, popularly called “pure water”. This widespread acceptance introduced a lucrative business where corners are sometimes cut in its production, treatment and packaging. The aim of this study was to assess the physical and bacteriological quality of sachet water sold in Uli and Ihiala area of Anambra State, Nigeria.
 MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 10 samples were analysed, a batch of 5 purchased at the point of production and another 5 from vendors. The membrane filter technique was used for the total coliform count and total heterotrophic count.
 RESULTS: Turbidity values fell below the WHO standard of 5 NTU. All samples were colourless and odourless, all but two (A and D) were tasteless. All samples showed presence of bacteria with total heterotrophic count ranging from 33.5 – 60.0 cfu/ml and total coliform 2.0 – 5.0 cfu/ml. Organisms isolated include Bacillus spp., Klebsiella spp., E. Coli, Pseudomonas spp., Salmonella spp., Citrobacter spp. and Staphylococcus spp. E. Coli was present in only one sample (E). A corresponding decrease of bacterial isolates was observed in batches A to B, Bacillus spp. and Klebsiella spp. was however present in both batches. Probably due to the ability of these organisms to survive on little nutrient, also the decline can be attributed to effect of temperature and possible exposure to ultraviolet light rays.
 CONCLUSION: All the water samples analysed were contaminated, as coliform detected exceeded the WHO standard for drinking water. We recommend routine quality assessment of sachet manufacturing factories and closure of unlicensed factories/ companies where applicable