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International Journal of Food Science and Agriculture

ISSN Print: 2578-3467 Downloads: 207648 Total View: 2912379
Frequency: quarterly ISSN Online: 2578-3475 CODEN: IJFSJ3
Email: ijfsa@hillpublisher.com
Article Open Access http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/ijfsa.2023.03.003

Evaluation of Physicochemical and Microbial Qualities of Bottled Water Samples Vended Around a University in the South-East, Nigeria

N. L. Nwanagba1, A. N. Ukom1, H. O. Okudu2, J. N. Okoli2, I. L. Okparauka3, C. P. Muoghalu1, O. A. Olaoye1,*

1Department of Food Science and Technology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria.

2Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria.

3Science Laboratory Technology Biochemistry Unit, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Uwana, Afikpo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

*Corresponding author: O. A. Olaoye

Published: January 30,2023

Abstract

This study evaluated the quality of four (4) different bottled water samples being sold in one of the environs of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, a University in the South East, Nigeria. Standard methods were used in assessing the physicochemical and microbiological qualities of the water samples. Results showed that coliforms and fungi were not detected in the samples, hence comply with world health organization (WHO) requirement for drinking water. However, total bacteria counts ranged from 1.54 to 2.08 log CFU/ml, deviating slightly from requirement of WHO. Results of the physicochemical parameters were within the WHO acceptable limits, with the exception of alkalinity (140.35-145.23 mg/l) and phosphorous (0.79-0.94 mg/l) which were above the permissible limits of 50mg/l and zero respectively. In conclusion, some of the physicochemical quality attributes of the bottled water samples did not conform with the WHO requirement for drinking water, making the current finding of public health significance to consumers of bottled water in the University. Strict adherence to quality control measures should be observed by manufacturers of the bottled water to help improve quality and protect public health.

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How to cite this paper

Evaluation of Physicochemical and Microbial Qualities of Bottled Water Samples Vended Around a University in the South-East, Nigeria

How to cite this paper:  N. L. Nwanagba, A. N. Ukom, H. O. Okudu, J. N. Okoli, I. L. Okparauka, C. P. Muoghalu, O. A. Olaoye. (2023) Evaluation of Physicochemical and Microbial Qualities of Bottled Water Samples Vended Around a University in the South-East, Nigeria. International Journal of Food Science and Agriculture7(1), 16-20.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/ijfsa.2023.03.003