Comparative Analysis of Microbial Load and Physicochemical Parameters in Sachet and Bottle Water Sold Around Madala Zuba Axis Nigeria

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in semi-urban areas like Madalla-Zuba where packaged sachet and bottled water are the primary sources of drinking water. This study conducted a comparative analysis of microbial load and physicochemical parameters of sachet (pure) and bottled water sold around the Madala–Zuba axis. Twenty-five samples (15 sachet and 10 bottled water brands) were randomly collected and analyzed using standard microbiological and physicochemical methods. Results revealed that 12 out of 15 sachet water brands met World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standards for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) guidelines for physicochemical properties, although several samples showed acidic pH values below recommended limits. The microbiological analysis found no Coliforms and Escherichia Coli in the sachet water samples, making them microbiologically safe. In contrast, two bottled water brands (Dzuba and Yneb) recorded microbial contamination, with isolates including Enterobacter aerogenes, Shigella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These findings highlight inconsistencies in packaged water quality, and challenge the assumption that bottled water is always safer than sachet water in this study showing better microbial safety compared to some bottled water brands. The study underscores the need for continuous monitoring, strict regulatory enforcement, and improved production practices to safeguard public health and ensure consumer confidence in packaged drinking water.