Sachet Water Samples Research Articles

Determination of Shelf Life of Packaged Water in Selected Water Packaging Factories, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria

Water is critical for human survival. Therefore, its quality and safety are non-negotiable, especially in packaged forms like sachets and bottles. However, when human beings consume unsafe water, they become prone to waterborne diseases which could result in deaths. Therefore, this study investigated the shelf life of packaged water from four selected water packaging factories in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria, labeled samples A, B, C and D. Selected physicochemical and microbial analyses were carried out on water samples monthly for three months according to American Public Health Association standards, to assess any changes over the three months. Results indicated that while most samples met the World Health Organization (WHO) minimum standards for drinking water quality, still notable variations were observed as the months of analyses progressed. Sachet water samples exhibited more significant reduction in physicochemical and microbial quality compared with bottled water samples. This study concludes that sample A recorded the best results comparatively. Also, shelf life of sachet water is relatively shorter compared with bottled water, with a suggested storage period of three months under typical room and tropical conditions to ensure safety and quality. These findings emphasize the need for more quality control measures, better storage practices and frequent factory monitoring to ensure safety of packaged drinking water. The study recommends that regulatory agencies better enforce existing water packaging guidelines, while packaging factories should also adopt improved packaging and handling processes to enhance shelf life of their products.

Physicochemical and bacteriological assessment of the polyethene packaged sachet water (popularly called “pure water”) as a major source of drinking water in Sagamu, Ogun State, Southwest, Nigeria

This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical and bacteriological characteristics of polyethylene-packaged sachet water, commonly known as "pure water," produced and distributed in the Sagamu local government area of Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria. The research involved analyzing sachet water samples from various producers, sources, and distributors to assess their quality. Samples were collected randomly from six different locations/towns within Sagamu Local Government and subjected to physicochemical and bacteriological analysis. The findings were compared with the permissible limits established by reputable organizations such as WHO, EPA, Canada, and NIS. The results indicated that most parameters fell within the acceptable range set by WHO, EPA, Canada, and NIS. However, the pH levels of the sachet water samples (ranging from 4.73 to 6.10) were found to be acidic, deviating from the expected range of 6.5 to 10.5. Additionally, while the Total Heterotrophic Bacteria count and Enteric Bacteria count were slightly lower than the permissible limits, with Total Enteric Bacteria ranging from 300 to 480 cfu/100ml (permissible limit <500cfu/100ml) and Enteric Bacteria ranging from 280 to 380 cfu/100ml. Recommendations derived from the study include advocating for water-producing industries to establish their raw water sources in contamination-free zones, encouraging the involvement of well-equipped private and government hospitals in monitoring and reporting on the water quality of packaging industries, promoting the provision of safe piped water by credible individuals within communities, and emphasizing the role of regulatory bodies like SON and NAFDAC in continuously assessing the production and packaging standards of drinking water across communities.

Preliminary assessment of <i>Moringa oleifera</i> seed as a flocculation agent for purification of drinking water

Sachet and borehole water are the major sources of drinking water for many in Nigeria. However, there are still concerns about drinking water purity in Nigeria. This study was conducted to determine the parasites associated with sachet and borehole drinking water and to determine the efficacy of Moringa oleifera seed in the flocculation treatment of sachet and borehole water. A total of 75 sachet water from 15 brands, and 10 different borehole water samples were collected from the study area. Moringa seed was processed and maceration was done to extract the active ingredients. Of the 75 sachet water samples from 15 brands examined, none had any parasites. However, all the brands contained varying degrees of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). Brand N had the highest (147.1mg/L), while Brand G had the least (4.62mg/L). After treatment, the TDS values of all the water samples were reduced by more than 50% in each of the brands. There was no significant association in the particle load among the sachet water brands (P>0.05, P=0.141). All 10 borehole water samples examined also contained varying degrees of TDS. The highest level of TDS in the study (635.4mg/L) and Ova of Ascaris lumbricoides was observed in sample E. After treatment, the TDS values of all the water samples were reduced. Also, ova of A. lumbricoides was no longer observed in the sample E. In this study, M. oleifera seed has demonstrated a high level of efficacy as a flocculation agent for the purification of drinking water. Therefore, we recommend further studies to determine how the seed could be used safely as a household and industrial water flocculant.

Microbial Quality and Mineral Content of Water Consumed in Ho Municipality of Volta Region, Ghana

Background: Water quality and safety are fundamental to human development and well-being. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the bacteriological and mineral content of water in Ho, the capital city of the Volta Region of Ghana.
 Methods: Sachet, bottled, and tap water were sampled from January to February in 2019 due to the high rate of consumption and their presumed quality which were taken at random from five different locations throughout the municipality. Water quality assessment protocols were utilized to ascertain the bacteriological as well as mineral contents of the samples, whilst ANOVA was used to determine statistical difference and significance at p<0.05.
 Results: The maximum Heterotrophic Plate Count for tap water was 9.95±0.64×105 Colony Forming Unit (CFU)/ml, for sachet water was 7.46±0.09×106 CFU/ml, and for bottled water was 1.10±0.56×105 CFU/ml, all obtained on nutrient agar. For MacConkey agar, maximum growth was 2.94±0.03×106, 9.42±1.67×106, and 2.31±0.77×105 CFU/ml for tap, sachet, and bottled water, respectively. The Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate Agar indicated maximum growth of 1.84±0.34×103, 5.72±0.06×106, and 5.50±2.12×104 CFU/ml for tap, sachet, and bottled water, respectively.
 The physical parameters such as pH, turbidity, color, and conductivity were within the recommended limits set by the Ghana Standards Authority. However, tap water recorded the highest turbidity, bottled water recorded the highest and least pH and turbidity, respectively. Moreover, the mineral analysis revealed high levels of phosphate (PO₄³⁻), chloride (Cl-), and sodium (Na) in bottled water, and total iron (Fe) was relatively high in several tap and sachet water samples, the latter item also recorded the highest for ammonia (NH3).
 Conclusions: Overall, the tap, sachet, and bottled water samples exhibited varied levels of microbial, and mineral contents whilst the physical parameters were relatively within the recommended levels. The sachet and tap

A Comparative Assessment of the Physicochemical and Microbiological Qualities of Some Drinking Water Sources in Diobu, Portharcourt, Nigeria

Diseases caused as a results of drinking contaminated water pose a severe risk to the public's health. In the current study, various drinking water sources in Diobu, Port Harcourt, were evaluated and their microbiological and physicochemical characteristics were compared. Drinking water samples were collected from a borehole and a sachet (packaged) source. Physicochemical and bacteriological investigations were conducted using standard analytical techniques. The results of physiochemical parameters revealed that sachet water samples had higher pH values than borehole water. The borehole water samples had a mean pH of 4.37±1.21 which was much lower than the W.H.O.- recommended range (6.5-8.5). The study’s Total Suspended Solids readings were within the permissible limits of 30.0 mg/l. The borehole samples had the highest concentration of 6.5±4.31mg/l, while the sachet water samples had the lowest concentration of 2.5±1.5 mg/l. Total Dissolved Solids ranged between 15.8±13.5mg/l in sachet water and 55.6±33.4 mg/l in samples from boreholes. The Electrical Conductivity values were recorded as 33.5±28.4 µScm-1 in sachet water and 136.6±73.9 µScm-1 in borehole water. The mean total alkalinity value in sachet water was 0.57±0.29 mg/l whereas in borehole water, it was 3.29±1.39 mg/l. For sachet water and borehole water, the levels of water hardness ranged from 1.95±0.84 mg/l to 10.67±3.21 mg/l, respectively. The range of biological oxygen demand was < 1±0.00 (for sachet water) to 2.13±13 (for borehole water). Dissolved oxygen levels ranged from 1.72±0.70 mg/l in sachet water to 1.95±0.62 mg/l in borehole water. Chemical oxygen demand levels ranged from 2.38±1.18mg/l (Sachet water) to 11.31±9.49 (Borehole water) while Turbidity ranged from <1±0.00 NTU (Sachet water) to 1.1±0.64 NTU (Borehole water). Except for Chemical Oxygen Demand, there was no difference in the values that were observed that was significant at P≥ 0.05 in this study. The mean total bacterial counts ranged from 2.0 x 104 CFU/ml in sachet water to 9.0 x104 CFU/ml in borehole water, demonstrating high levels of contamination in the borehole water from human contamination. Comparatively to the other water sources, sachet water had the lowest overall bacterial and coliform levels. However, because the bacteriological values for total coliform counts was above the WHO threshold of zero per 100 ml, they did not comply with international standards. Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Escherichia coli were the pathogenic bacteria of public health significance that were isolated from the diverse water samples. Five distinct isolates of fungi, including Penicillium spp., Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Trichoderma spp., and Mucor spp., were found. In comparison to borehole water, which had the most bacterial pollutants, sachet water tests had the fewest. It is advised that the water sources be treated before being used for any domestic purposes as the water sources in this research area are not suitable for human consumption.

Assessment of sachet water quality in Kumasi, Ghana

This study assessed the physicochemical and microbiological quality of sachet drinking water samples in Kumasi, a major city in Ghana. Samples were collected from various sources within the city. Physicochemical properties, including pH, total dissolved solids, and concentrations of calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium ions, were analyzed following established protocols. Additionally, fluoride concentration was determined. The assessment criteria for water quality were based on the World Health Organization’s and the Ghana Standards Authority’s recommended standards for drinking water. The samples were also subjected to microbial analysis to detect the presence of E. coli and coliforms, and to evaluate microbial quality. The findings indicated that most physicochemical properties of the samples met the World Health Organization’s standards for safe drinking water, except for the slightly acidic pH. Total dissolved solids and the concentrations of calcium, sodium, potassium, fluoride and magnesium ions were within acceptable ranges. Strong positive correlations were observed among various physicochemical parameters of sachet water. However, microbial analysis revealed that 67% of the samples were contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms, including E. coli and coliforms, indicating poor microbiological quality. While sachet water samples generally meet physicochemical safety standards, addressing microbial quality is essential to ensure the safety of drinking water in Kumasi.

Transfer of Bisphenol A and Trace Metals from Plastic Packaging to Mineral Water in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

The consumption of packaged water is growing rapidly in both urban and rural centres in Burkina Faso. Bisphenol A (BPA) and trace metals are among the compounds used in the manufacture of plastic packaging, and their presence in water can pose a health risk to consumers due to their alleged toxicity. Therefore, this study explores the transfer of these compounds from plastic packaging to mineral water in Sudano-Sahelian climatic conditions. Ten samples of packaged sachet water commercialised in Ouagadougou were studied. An absence of BPA in the borehole water used to produce packaged water has been shown. The transfer of BPA into mineral water increases with storage temperature. The BPA that appears in packaged water degrades over time. BPA concentrations ranged from 0 to 0.38 mg/L after two weeks of storage, 0 to 0.8 mg/L after four weeks of storage and 0 to 0.35 mg/L after 8 weeks of storage. Analysis of the trace metals showed steadily increasing concentrations from the second to the sixth weeks, with concentrations ranging from 0 to 9.7 µg/L for cadmium and from 0 to 0.13 mg/L for iron in the sachet water samples.

Effects of Methanolic Turmeric Extract, Alum on E. coli in Borehole & Sachet Water PH.

The aim of this research were to determine the antibiogram and effects of methanolic turmeric extract and alum on Escherichia coli in some borehole and sachet water in Rivers State respectively. The various concentrations (100mg/ml,50mg/ml,25mg/ml and 12.5mg/ml) of these combinations, methanolic turmeric extract, Alum, MTE+ Alum were tested respectively for antibacterial activity on some strains of E. coli isolated from borehole and sachet water samples. These were compared with an antibiotic standard, using chloramphenicol as a positive control. Antibacterial activity was assessed using disc diffusion method (DDM) respectively. Of these combinations, methanolic turmeric extracts in synergism with Alum (MTE+Alum) exhibited the lowest mean diameter of inhibitory zone (DIZ) values of 5.0-20.0mm and Alum exhibited the largest mean of inhibitory zone (DIZ) values of 8.0-20.0mm on the test organism using disc diffusion method (DDM) respectively. There was no inhibitory zone with MTE+Aum at 12.5 concentration whereas (DIZ) values for methanolic turmeric extract ranged from 8.0-16.0mm by DDM. The susceptibility of combinations were more pronounced against CP064383 E. coli (20.0mm), CP089272 E. coli (14.0mm), AF099077 E.coli (14.0mm) and LG142154 E.coli (18.0mm) respectively. This results revealed that chloramphenicol inhibited the largest DIZ values. However, the activity of chloramphenicol revealed that purified and tested antibiotic should be used as the drug of choice for treatments. And the synergistic effects of methanolic turmeric extract plus Alum was effective against all strains of E.coli with concentration of 100mg/ml and can be used as second line of treatment against infections caused by E.coli. E. coli isolates with a prevalence of 100% were obtained as the test organisms. Susceptibility pattern of the test isolates showed 100% susceptibility to Gentamycin,75% by chloramphenicol, Ciprofloxacin and Vancomycin. They were resistant to Cefotaxime (75%) and Cotriazole (25%) respectively. Multiple antibiotic resistance index for test isolates revealed 3(75%) of four E.coli strains was >0.2.The results for total heterotrophic bacterial count showed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the mean counts sampling locations Ikwerre, Obio/Akpor and Phalga. Faecal Coliform Count revealed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the mean counts with sachet water having the highest values of (2.77±0.14, 2.76±0.09 and 2.77±0.17) Log10CFU/ml while borehole water revealed least counts of (1.46±1.29, 0.79±1.18 and 1.86±1.44) Log10CFU/ml. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the potentials of Alum, MTE in synergism with alum as choice of treatment caused by E. coli in water samples from the study area.

DRINKING WATER PREFERENCE AND MICROBIOLOGICAL CONTENTS OF SELECTED, LOCALLY CONSUMED SACHET WATER AT SINKOR, LIBERIA

This research assesses the microbiological quality and reasons for brand preference among consumers of sachet water samples in Sinkor area, Monrovia, Liberia. The study looked at the bacterial profile of sachet water in Sinkor, Monrovia, and considers factors that determined individuals’ preference of each water brand. A survey consisting of questionnaires was administered to 102 respondents in order to determine the several parameters, while the bacteriological quality assessments of sachet water samples were determined by the Most Probable Number (MPN), and pH value was determined by the pH meter. Five mostly patronized water brands were involved. Results showed that the order of factors considered before choosing a brand is in the following order: good taste> clean appearance>good packaging> odorlessness while they detested water brands based on same factors in the following order: bad odor> bad taste>possession of color or particles > rough packaging>lacks expiry date on the container. In addition to these, microbiological profile revealed that all of the sachet water samples analyzed fulfill WHO requirements. Monitoring bodies in charge of drinking water in the study area must be encouraged to maintain standards.

Assessment of levels and health risk of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) in selected sachet water packaged from groundwater resources in Ogun State, Nigeria

BackgroundSachet water is a source of affordable drinking water for low-income socioeconomic class. However, contamination by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) could pose severe adverse health risk to consumers. ObjectiveThe present study aimed at assessing the levels and health risk of PTEs in selected sachet water samples packaged from groundwater resources in Ogun State, Nigeria. MethodsA total of 140 bags of selected sachet water brands were purchased and analysed for eleven PTEs (some of which are rarely reported in Nigeria) using inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrophotometer. Recovery experiment was conducted to validate the performance of the used analytical instrument. Blank samples were also run to cancel the matrix effect of the analysing reagents, and to calculate the limit of detection. PTE data were evaluated for simple descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS for Windows. Health risk assessment was conducted for hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI) and cancer risk (CR). ResultsChromium (Cr) was the highest observed PTE in sachet water from Asero (707±1102 µg L−1), Isolu (363±374 µg L−1) and Makun-Shagamu (359±204 µg L−1) sites. The concentrations of Cr were higher than the permissible limit of the World Health Organization in 63% of the sachet water samples. Furthermore, the average contents of lead (Pb) and thallium (Tl) were observed at higher concentrations than the acceptable limits. The HQs exceeding the permissible threshold of 1.0 were observed for silver (Ag), aluminium (Al), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), Cr and Tl in 29% of the sachet water consumed by adults and children; indicating adverse health effects. The CRs of Cd and Cr at all the sampling locations, and As at few sites were higher than the acceptable limit of 1 × 10−4; suggesting possible development of cancer by the consumers. ConclusionThe high levels and health risk estimates of PTEs in the sachet water samples suggested unsafe for consumption. Periodic monitoring of PTEs in sachet water from the study area is recommended.

Assessment of Microplastics Contamination in River Water, Bottled Water, Sachet Water and Branded Table Salt Samples in Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria

Microplastics (MPs) < 5 mm-sized are regarded as global environmental contaminants. This study analyzes MP concentrations in the Kaduna River (raw water), treated water from two conventional water treatment plants, brands of bottled water, and food-grade salts available in Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria using standard methods. Data obtained show that levels of MPs ranged from 25 to 36 particles L-1 in treated water, and to 153 particles L-1 in raw water. While samples of bottled water contained 1.4 to 3.7 particles L-1 and samples of table salt contained 0.13 to 0.27 particles g-1. Water and salt samples contained five different types of polymers, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate. Additionally, MPs were divided into three groups based on their physical characteristics. In both raw and treated water, fragments were clearly more prevalent; in samples of bottled water and table salt, fragments and fibers predominated. Microplastics in bottled water pose a medium pollution risk, according to pollution risk indices. The estimated daily intake was generally minimal, indicating little harm from daily consumption, but it also demonstrates that children have a larger intake of microplastics than adults. Leaching from the packing material was identified as the MPs' primary source. This study fills the knowledge gap in the area of emerging microplastic pollution of water sources, drinking water, and food-grade salt.

Bacterial Contamination Levels and Brand Perception of Sachet Water: A Case Study in Some Nigerian Urban Neighborhoods

Sachet water (SW) is a major source of drinking in most Nigerian homes, thus making it a possible conveyance medium for health risks due to contamination if persist rather than for replenishment of the body. This study collected SW from three busy neighborhoods in South-West Nigeria and investigated for the presence of indicator bacteria (Escherichia coli (E. coli), Total Coliform (TC), Total Heterophilic Bacteria (THB), Staphylococcus (Staph)) and some physio-chemical parameters (total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and salinity). Multi-variable and exploratory statistical methods were applied to the results to determine correlations between bacterial contamination levels and perceived brand reputation. Bacteriological tests with raw SW samples appeared too numerous to count (TNC) and thus required serial dilutions. After seven-fold serial dilutions, results obtained revealed that SW brands with good reputations had no TC and E. coli and was statistically significant with groupings of other SW brands (χ2 = 12.28; p < 0.05 and χ2 = 37.96; p < 0.05). Additionally, SW brands with poor reputations had mean values of TC (19.7×108 cfu/mL; 14×108 cfu/mL 1.15×108 cfu/mL) and E. coli (18.2×108 cfu/mL; 38.7×108 cfu/mL,32.4×108 cfu/mL) exceeding the threshold value of zero set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Only one sample from a poor reputation brand tested positive for Staphylococcus and was not statistically significant (χ2 = 5.2191; p = 0.074). Principal Component Analysis (PCA)/Factor Analysis (FA) revealed that most of the SW had fecal contamination was the major source. Therefore, this study suggests that periodic cleaning of distribution lines, location-specific treatment, and other quality control (QC) measures should be enforced to reduce water security risk for SW consumption in the region.

Comparative Analysis of the Microbial Content of Some Drinking Water Sources in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria

Introduction: The short falls in the distribution of treated pipe borne water leads to resort to alternative sources of drinking water. Comparative analysis of sachet, bottle and tap water supply sources in Port Harcourt Metropolis Rivers State, Nigeria, was conducted by applying culture dependent methods in order to examine their qualities.
 Methodology: Ten (10) samples comprising 4 bottle water samples from Rumuodara (zone B), Elekahia (zone C), Orogbum (zone G), and Mgbuoba (zone I), 4 sachet water samples from Rumukurushi (zone A), Borokiri (zone M), Rumuepirikom (zone J), Mgbuoshimiri (zone K), and 2 tap water samples from Rivers State University hostels NDDC and C were analyzed using standard analytical techniques.
 Results: Twenty-seven (27) bacterial isolates identified in 5 of the 10 water samples were 12 (45%) Escherichia coli, 8 (30%) Streptococcus species, 4 (15%) Klebsiella species and 3 (10%) Staphylococcus aureus respectively. Total Plate Count on sachet water samples ranged from 0.1 to 1.2 cfu/ml while that of the tap water was 2.0 to 2.9 cfu/ml. In sachet water, Staphylococcus aureus ranged from 0.1 to 0.2 cfu/ml, where as 1.2 cfu/ml colonies was recorded for Streptococcus species. In tap water Escherichia coli ranged from 0.3 cfu/ml to 1.8 cfu/ml, whereas 0.4 to 0.8 cfu/ml was recorded for Streptococcus species and Klebsiella species respectively.There was no bacteria growth in the bottle water.
 Conclusion: The findings show that the drinking water sources did not meet the approved acceptable limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) for drinking water though there was no growth of indicator organisms in the samples and no difference in the physicochemical variables. It is recommended that sachet and tap water supply in Port Harcourt Metropolis be properly treated before human consumption and other domestic purposes.

Parasitic and bacterial contamination of sachets water sold at Ngwo, Enugu State, Nigeria

Water is an essential part of human nutrition. It is readily available in sachets with little or no interest in the quality by the producers. This study focused on the isolation and identification of parasites and bacteria contaminating sachet water sold at Ngwo, Enugu State, Nigeria. Twenty-one sachets of water were collected randomly from seven different brands sold within the community. The parasites were identified using sedimentation technique while bacteria were isolated from water cultured in Nutrient, MacConkey, and Eosin Methylene Blue Agar media. The physicochemical parameters analysed were total dissolved solids, pH, chloride, total hardness, and nitrite. Two-way analysis of variance was employed to analyse the data for bacteria and parasites identified. Of the twenty-one sachet water samples examined, 13(61.9%) were positive for parasites. Two parasite species [Cysts of Entamoeba histolytica 4(19.0%) and Giardia lamblia 9(42.8%)] were identified. The total viable bacteria count ranged from 4(6.5%) to 10(16.1%) colonies in 1ml of water whereas the total Coliform count ranged from 4(6.5%) to 6(9.7%) in 1ml of water with sample F having the highest value of both total viable bacterial count and total Coliform count. The percentage of the total viable bacterial count recorded was 75.8% while the total Coliform count was 24.2%. There was a significant difference in the distribution of bacteria among different brands of water samples (p<0.05) but not in parasite distribution (P<0.05). Bacillus spp 10(29.4%) had the highest occurrence whereas Micrococcus spp 3(8.8%) had the least which was not significant (P>0.05). The physicochemical parameters fell within the recommended limit set by the World Health Organization for drinking water except for the pH value of two brands which was below the stipulated limit. The presence of coliform and other microbes in the samples could have unhealthy implications for consumers when consumed. There is a need for regular and periodic monitoring of the water quality before and after production.

Effects of Prolonged Storage Condition on the Physicochemical and Microbiological Quality of Sachet Water and Its Health Implications: A Case Study of Selected Water Brands Sold within Samaru Community, Northwest Nigeria

The aim of this research is to investigate the effect of long-term storage conditions on the physicochemical and microbial quality of selected sachet water brands sold within the Samaru community and its health implication for consumers. Three brands of sachet water were subjected to different storage conditions and were analyzed for microbial and physicochemical parameters at intervals of 3 weeks for a period of 3 months, based on procedures and standard methods of APHA (2005). The highest pH means concentration was recorded in sachet water samples used for control (7.14 ± 0.24) while EC, TDS, BOD, and calcium (336.67 ± 73.69 µS/cm, 168.33 ± 34.89 mg/L, 1.87 ± 0.39 mg/L and 2.97 ± 0.19 mg/L) were recorded in the sachet water samples stored on the floor. A total number of 15 fungal species and 4 bacteria species were identified from the three selected brands of sachet water examined. Aspergillus niger and Penicillium spp. have the highest species occurrence of 25% among the fungus identified while Proteus Sp. recorded the highest species occurrence (50%) among the bacteria isolated. Sachet water samples stored on the floor have the highest abundances of microbial species of five and six. All the physicochemical parameters were within the stipulated limits set by the World Health Organization and the Nigeria Standard for Drinking Water Quality, but fail microbial tests due to the presence of pathogens such as Aspergillus, Candida, Vibro, Yersinia, etc., that can cause a wide range of life-threatening system infections in a patient with mild immune-deficiency. Being under prolonged storage and the type of storage conditions can encourage the regrowth of microbial in packaged water under favorable environmental conditions, to levels that may be harmful to humans.

Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Drinking Water from the Greater Accra Region, Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study, December 2021-March 2022.

With safely managed water accessible to only 19% of the population in Ghana, the majority of its residents are at risk of drinking contaminated water. Furthermore, this water could be a potential vehicle for the transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. This study assessed the presence of bacteria and the antibiotic resistance profile of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in drinking-water sources using membrane filtration and Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion methods. A total of 524 water samples were analyzed for total coliforms, total heterotrophic bacteria, E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Samples included sachets, bottled water, tap water, borehole and well water. Most of the sachet and bottled water samples were within the limits of Ghana’s standards for safe drinking water for the parameters tested. Over 50% of tap and borehole water was also free of E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Overall, of 115 E. coli isolates from tap and ground water samples, most were resistant to cefuroxime (88.7%), trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (62.6%) and amoxicillin–clavulanate (52.2%). P. aeruginosa isolates were most resistant to aztreonam (48%). Multidrug resistance was predominantly seen among E. coli isolates (58%). Evidence from this study calls for routine antimicrobial resistance surveillance in drinking water across the country and additional treatment of water sources at household levels.

Assessment of sachet water quality in Ado-Ekiti and Environ

A comprehensive Laboratory assessment involving the physical and chemical analysis of nylon packed sachet water popularly known as pure water within the Ado-Ekiti metropolis in Ekiti state has been carried out. This is in view of the increasing number of the sachet water production factory due to growing population of the people within the metropolis and the need to generally investigate them to know the ones good and safe for domestic consumption. A total of fifteen (15) sachet water samples from different location within Ado-Ekiti, the area of study were collected and analyzed. The test was carried out using the pH comparator, turbidimeter, Lovibond comparator, and the caliform test for pH, turbidity, colour test respectively. The ionic concentration was also determined by adding some reagents and exposing it to the source of light. The result of the analysis shows that he sample has a pH value ranging from 5.11-7.52, Alkalinity 16-160, Electrical conductivity 29-417 ys/cm, Turbidity of the water sample ranges from 5.3-9.3, the total dissolve solid (TDS) ranges between 9.0 to 107mg/l/. The range of few ions like Iron (Fe), Sulphate (SO42-), Chloride (Cl) and Nitrate (NO3-) analyzed in mg/l ranges between 0.1-1.0, 182-256, 14.58-29.15 and 48-71 respectively. The result of the analysis falls within the permissible limit and conforms with the standard recommended by NAFDAC, WHO and UNICEF.

Potability of some selected sachet water sold in Bwari area Council Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria along the production and distribution chain

Potability of water is the degree to which water is safe and clean. This study focuses on the potability of some selected sachet water sold in Bwari area council of FCT Nigeria. Samples of sachet water of 4 different brands were collected at random, and then subjected to bacterial assessment and antibiotics susceptibility. Most probable number technique were employed for the detection of coliforms and spread plate technique for bacteria loads. A total of 138 isolates were obtained from this study. Seventy-three (73) isolates were obtained from the source of water while 10 isolates were obtained from the sachet water collected from the factories just after production process. Hand swab of the factory workers showed a total of 24 isolates while 15 and 16 isolates were obtained from the distributors. This shows microbial recontamination after treatment processes along the distribution chain. The highest number of bacteria isolated was 44 isolates and this was obtained from brand D. Brand A and B both had 33 isolates while brand C had 28 isolates which represented the least number of bacteria isolated. The microorganism isolated from the four brands analyzed were not significantly difference (p≥ 0.05). Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus spp was the most frequently isolated bacteria. All the brands of sachet water analyzed were below the drinking water standards set by WHO and are of doubtful quality. Care must be taken as these product moves from production sites to consumers. There is also need for regular monitoring of the production process by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control.

Assessment of Physicochemical Quality of Abattoir-Effluent Impacted Iyi-Etu River and other Water Sources at the Amansea Livestock Market Settlement, Anambra State, Nigeria

The pollution load and anthropogenic pressure on different water sources may be reflected in the physicochemical quality evaluation of drinking water sources. This study was undertaken to evaluate the physicochemical quality of the Iyi-Etu River and other water sources such as well and borehole used by the Amansea livestock market settlement for drinking and domestic purpose. A total of 96 (36 river, 12 well, 12 borehole, 12 effluent, and 24 sachet water samples) samples were collected from these sources over 12 months. The water samples were collected using a composite sampling technique and temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids were measured onsite in triplicates using a water quality meter. Temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids recorded in this study ranged as follows: 23.8-32.6 ˚C, 5.2-8.6, 3.9×101 to 3.8×103 µS/cm and 1.9×101 to 1.9×103 mg/L respectively. The mean pH and temperature of all sample types were within WHO standard guidelines for drinking water. All sample types except well and effluent samples were within the limit of WHO guidelines for electrical conductivity of drinking water. Measurements of EC and TDS were lower upstream (112.2 µS/cm; 56.5 mg/L) than downstream 1 (203.3 µS/cm; 108.2 mg/L) and downstream 2 (197.1 µS/cm; 98.1 mg/L). These figures reveal the possible contamination of the Iyi-Etu River with abattoir effluent coming from the Amansea abattoir that is near the river. The Iyi-Etu River and well water are contaminated with different sources of contamination and serve as a public health hazard to all those using it for drinking and or domestic purposes.

Microbiological examination of bottled and sachet water sold and consumed in Nnewi Metropolis, Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria

Microbiological examination of bottled and sachet water sold and consumed in Nnewi metropolis, Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria was carried out to assess their microbiological qualities. The bottled and sachet water were bought from various sales outlets in Nnewi, Nnobi, Ichi and Ozubulu towns. Overall 45 samples belonging to 15 different brands (5 bottled table and 10 sachet water) were analyzed for their microbiological quality using standard microbial methods in triplicates of each brand. The biochemical characteristics of the isolates were studied and results showed varied degrees of microbial load which indicated Pseudomonas spp., Klebsiella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., Salmonella spp., Enterobacter spp. and Citrobacter spp. Of all the 15 sachet water brands analyzed, 40 % failed to meet the WHO drinking water standard of ten coliform per 100 mL, making them unsuitable for human consumption, but all the bottled water samples were of potable quality. The bottled water samples had more microbiological quality than the sachet water samples. The contaminated sachet water samples are not fit for human consumption. Causes of contamination of the water samples and recommendations for improving their microbiological quality were highlighted.