ESSENTIAL ELEMENT COMPOSITIONS OF SELECTED BOTTLED AND SACHET WATER COMMONLY SOLD IN BENIN CITY

ABSTRACT

Essential elements are needed in drinking water as they contribute to the proper functioning of the body systems. Most consumers however do not take this into account when purchasing water to quench their taste. The study conducted to determine the concentrations of essential elements (Sodium, Magnesium, Zinc and Potassium) in commonly sold table and sachet water brands in Benin-City. Five bottled water brands (coded, A, B, C, D, and E) and two different sachet water brands (brands X and Y) were used. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) was used to analyze the water samples for detection of sodium (Na), potassium (K), zinc (Zn), and magnesium (Mg). The results showed that brand C had a high concentration of, Sodium (Na): 2.04±0.007 mg/l, Magnesium (Mg): 1.95±0.006 mg/l and Potassium (K): 5.28±0.007 mg/l among the bottled water sampled. Low concentrations of Sodium (Na) 1.35±0.007 mg/l) was detected in Brand A with Brand B recorded the least concentration for magnesium (3.50 ±0.006 mg/l). While Brand E had the least concentrations for both zinc (0.037±0.007 mg/l) and potassium (2.17±0.007 mg/l). Among the two sachet water sampled brand Y had a higher concentration of all the essential elements analyze (sodium (1.83±0.007 mg/l), magnesium (0.01±0.007 mg/l), zinc (3.15±0.007 mg/l) and potassium (5.27±0.057 mg/l)) compared to brand X. The result of the questionnaire survey showed most people understand the importance of critical nutrients and their function in preserving health and hydration, with a sizable amount are willing to pay more for water that contain essential element.