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

Abstract

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.