Abstract
The aim of this exploratory research and comparative numerical pilot study was to investigate any significant differences in the microbiological content of tap and bottled water through the measurement of risk indicator parameters including Enterococci, Escherichia coli (E. coli) and colony-forming units (CFUs). This study to investigate storage conditions and compare consumer options of public water supply and bottled water using microbiological limits was carried out for public health research. This was a unique pilot study to Northern Ireland with global relevance due to the increase in the bottled water market and the need to address the lack of consumer awareness regarding storage and microbiological content. No E. coli or Enterococci were found in any of the 31 tap or bottled water samples. Three unrefrigerated bottled water samples exceeded the threshold in Colony Counts 22°C & 37°C (degrees Celsius) and failed in line with Drinking Water Directive guidelines. This indicated a link between storage conditions and microbiological quality. No link between prices or microbiological quality was indicated. This research recommends the creation of a regulator for the bottled water industry, the need for clearly labelled microbiological content and daily testing. Water suppliers such as Northern Ireland (NI) Water should promote the quality of tap water. Recommendations are also outlined for consumers. There is no statistically significant difference in the microbiological quality of tap and bottled water in Northern Ireland despite marketing claims.
Highlights
This exploratory research study arose from the water industry in the field of public health engineering
The fact Colony Count was higher at 22 ̊C than at 37 ̊C indicates no direct link between temperature and microbiological quality
The main conclusions drawn from this research were: Storage conditions of bottled water may pose a risk to microbiological quality
Summary
This exploratory research study arose from the water industry in the field of public health engineering. McDermott crease in the bottled water market and consumer awareness of the microbiological content of potable water is raised. Through a unique comparative numerical pilot study, it was determined if storage conditions affected any significant microbiological differences between tap water and bottled water in Northern Ireland, see Figure 1. Conflicting evidence exists between the bottled water industry marketing strategies and water samples analyses. European Union (EU) Drinking Water Directive 80/778/EEC (European Economic Community) states risk indicator parameter limits which are contradictory with test results. Awareness of proper storage techniques and microbiological content of potable water must be raised so that consumers can make an informed decision and safe choice regarding drinking water. Existing knowledge was deemed insufficient providing a valid rationale for this research
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