Quality Assessment of Sachet and Bottled Water Products in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State

Sachet and bottled water have become primary sources of drinking water for millions of Nigerians in urban centres, yet the quality of these products frequently falls short of regulatory standards. This study assesses the physicochemical and microbiological quality of twenty sachet and ten bottled water brands available in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, North East Nigeria. Parameters evaluated include pH, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, turbidity, alkalinity, hardness, nitrate, chloride, arsenic, lead, and total coliform count. Analyses were conducted following the American Public Health Association standard methods and compared against NAFDAC and WHO guidelines. Results show that the majority of sachet water brands were within acceptable limits for most physicochemical parameters, though four brands displayed total dissolved solids and hardness values above guideline thresholds. Microbiological testing revealed that three sachet water brands contained detectable total coliform counts, indicating possible post-production contamination from inadequate sealing or improper storage by retailers. All bottled water brands met physicochemical standards, though one brand showed trace arsenic levels above the NAFDAC recommended maximum. The findings identify specific quality control lapses in the sachet water sector and recommend strengthened enforcement of NAFDAC production standards, regular market surveillance, and consumer education on proper storage and handling of packaged water. Keywords: sachet water, bottled water, Maiduguri, physicochemical quality, microbiological safety