Determination of Physicochemical Parameters and Bacteriological Quality of Sachet Water in Kano Metropolis

Sachet water, commonly referred to as pure water, constitutes the primary source of drinking water for urban and peri-urban populations across North West Nigeria. Despite its widespread consumption, concerns persist about inconsistent quality control in its production. This study determined the physicochemical parameters and bacteriological quality of sachet water samples collected from registered and unregistered producers in Kano metropolis. Forty samples, comprising twenty from NAFDAC-registered producers and twenty from unregistered producers, were analysed for pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, chloride, sulphate, nitrate, total hardness, and bacteriological parameters including total coliform count and Escherichia coli presence. Registered producer samples met all physicochemical standards for drinking water in all tested parameters. Unregistered producer samples showed pH values outside the acceptable range of 6.5 to 8.5 in eight cases and elevated turbidity in twelve cases. Total coliform bacteria were absent from all registered producer samples but detected in sixty percent of unregistered samples. Escherichia coli, indicating faecal contamination, was found in seven unregistered sachet water samples. Total dissolved solids and conductivity values for unregistered producer samples were significantly higher than registered counterparts. These results confirm a substantial quality gap between regulated and unregulated sachet water production in Kano and underline the urgent need for regulatory enforcement, surprise inspection programmes by NAFDAC, and consumer education about identifying NAFDAC-registered products.

Keywords: sachet water, physicochemical quality, bacteriological quality, NAFDAC, Kano metropolis