Evaluation of Coliform Plate Count as an Indicator of Sachet Water Quality Sold in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State

Student: Rachael Okoduwa (Project, 2025)
Department of Microbiology
Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigates the coliform bacteria contamination of five sachet-packed water samples (labelled A to E), sold in Estako West LGA of Edo State, Nigeria. Eosin methylene Blue agar (EMB) was used in the study which adopted pour plate technique. The result of the coliform bacteria count indicated sample B exhibited the highest bacterial load (4.3 × 101 cfu/ml) and turbidity (8 NTU), followed by samples C, E, A, and D, which had progressively lower bacterial counts and turbidity levels. Sample B's elevated CBC indicate fecal contamination and 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.

Keywords
EVALUATION OF COLIFORM PLATE COUNT INDICATOR SACHET WATER QUALITY SOLD
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