Assessment of Heterotrophic Bacteria Contamination in Selected Sachet Water Sold in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the microbiological and physicochemical properties of five sachet-packed water samples (labelled A to E), sold in Estako West LGA of Edo State, Nigeria, through the analysis of total heterotrophic bacteria count (HBC), pH, and turbidity. Nutrient agar was used in the study which adopted pour plate technique. The result of the HBC indicated sample B exhibited the highest bacterial load (4.5 × 10² cfu/ml) and turbidity (8 NTU), followed by samples E, A, D, and C, which had progressively lower bacterial counts and turbidity levels. While all bacterial counts were within the acceptable limits for drinking water (below 500 cfu/ml), sample B's elevated HBC and turbidity indicate potential contamination or suboptimal hygiene practices. The pH values ranged from 5.1 (sample B) to 5.8 (sample E), with all samples being slightly acidic. The acidity may have contributed to bacterial growth, particularly in sample B. Turbidity levels were highest in sample B (8 NTU), exceeding the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended limit of 5 NTU for drinking water, raising concerns about the presence of suspended particles or microbial contamination. These findings depicts the importance of stringent water treatment processes and regulatory oversight to ensure the safety and quality of sachet-packed water.