ABSTRACT
To solve the problems of scarcity and pollution of safe drinking water, the Nigeria populace retorted to the drinking of sachet water. Recent observations, studies and experiences brings to questioning the safety of these sachet water which is popularly called “pure Water”. The aim of the study is to comprehensive bacteriological assessment of hawked sachet water sold in in University of Benin, Ugbowo Campus, Benin City Edo State. The objectives of the project are: to assess the bacteriological quality of sachet water sold by street vendor within the University of Benin, Ugbowo Campus, Benin City, to compare the Chemo-physical and biological parameters of sachet water within the University of Benin, Ugbowo Campus, Benin City when compared to both the WHO and NSDWQ standards, to identify potential sources of contamination in the sachet water supply chain and to recommend interventions to improve the quality of sachet water and reduce the risk of waterborne diseases. A total of eight (8) samples consisting of “Etop water, Noble rich water, Adodocin water, Mudaye water, Microlux water, Uncle Sam water, Uniben water and Elizag water” were collected randomly from 8 locations in Benin city. The samples were collected in duplicates from each shop. 100ml of water from each sachet was poured into the filter membrane of the membrane filter, and then filtered through. This was done twice for each sachet. The filters from each sachet were then placed on Nutrient Agar plates and incubated at 370C for 24hours. The plates were then observed for cultural and morphological characteristics. After successful growth of microorganisms, the colonies were counted with a colony counter and the results per dilution count were recorded. The cultural characteristics were observed and recorded these include the color, shape, size, texture, elevation and margin. Using a streak method, bacteria were isolated from the nutrient medium and sub-cultured into a fresh nutrient medium to get a pure culture of the organism. After inoculation, the plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours and observed for bacterial growth. The phenotypic characterization of all isolates studied was performed and compared to phenotypic data of known ix organisms described in Bergey’s Manual of Systematic Bacteriology. Some biochemical and differential tests were performed to identify bacterial isolates with the help of Bergey’s Manual. The susceptibility of the isolated strains to most antibiotics is promising; however, the emergence of resistance to certain antibiotics highlights the need for vigilant monitoring and prudent antibiotic use.
