Physicochemical Determination, Microbial Load, and Health Risks of Some Sachet Water Brands Sold in the Kumasi Metropolis.

Abstract

Sachet water is a primary source of drinking water for many urban dwellers in Kumasi metropolis. However, concerns about sachet water quality and safety persist. This study assessed the physico-chemical and microbial quality of sachet water brands sold within Kumasi Metropolis, as well as the levels of selected heavy metals. A total of 105 sachet water brands were collected from eight different locations (L1–L8) and analyzed in the laboratory. pH, TDS, EC, turbidity, nitrates, chlorides, and fluorides were the physico-chemical parameters investigated. Heavy metal analysis focused on Mn, As, Fe, Cd, Pb, Cu, and Hg. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) was used for the determination of heavy metal concentrations, while pH and electrical conductivity were measured using a pH meter (HI 9125), turbidity with a turbidimeter (HI 88703), and TDS using (TDS Multimeter). Microbial analysis was conducted to determine the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in the sachet water brands. The results indicated that the pH of the sachet water samples ranged from 6.60 to 7.14, which falls within the WHO recommended range (6.5–8.5). TDS values ranged from 4.06 to 46.45 mg/L, and electrical conductivity ranged from 11.18 to 111.10 μS/cm, which were within acceptable limits (1000 mg/L, 1400 μS/cm respectively). Turbidity values were below the WHO threshold of 5 NTU, indicating clarity of the water. Cl-, Fl-, and NO3- levels were also within WHO safety limits. Microbial analysis confirmed that all samples were free from E. coli contamination, suggesting proper hygienic handling during packaging. The heavy metal analysis indicated that Mn, Fe, Pb, and Cd were detected in some samples, however, all were within WHO permissible limits. As and Hg were either not present or not detected with the method employed in the sachet water brands. The study highlights the need for regular monitoring and stricter quality control measures in sachet water production to ensure compliance with national and international drinking water standards.