Bacteriological Quality of Sachet Water Sold in Kano Metropolis, Kano State

Sachet water, popularly known as pure water, serves as the primary drinking water source for millions of low-income Nigerians, yet concerns about its microbiological safety persist. This study evaluated the bacteriological quality of sachet water produced and sold in Kano metropolis, Kano State, in the North West geopolitical zone of Nigeria. A total of 100 sachet water samples representing 20 different brands were randomly purchased from street vendors and analyzed using the membrane filtration technique and multiple tube fermentation method. Total coliform count, fecal coliform, and heterotrophic plate count were determined according to the American Public Health Association (APHA) standard methods. Results showed that 47 percent of tested brands exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits for total coliforms. Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were among the organisms isolated. Brands produced in unregistered facilities showed significantly higher contamination rates compared to National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) registered brands. The findings raise serious public health concerns regarding the regulatory oversight of sachet water production in Kano State. Strengthened enforcement of NAFDAC regulations, routine microbiological testing of sachet water by state public health authorities, and consumer awareness campaigns are urgently recommended. Keywords: sachet water, bacteriological quality, Kano, coliform, drinking water safety.