Microbiological and Physicochemical analysis of Water

1. Microbiological and physiochemical analysis of five different sachet
water sold in Nassarawa L.G.A., Kano State
Project Proposal by
HASSANA ZAKARI ALKALI
(ID: 1552)
Supervised by: Dr. Musa Innocent
March 2024

2. Introduction
 Sachet water, colloquially known as "pure water," is a
ubiquitous source of drinking water in Nigeria due to its
convenience and affordability (Olajide et al., 2017).
 In regions like Nassarawa L.G.A, where access to clean water
is limited, sachet water plays a crucial role in meeting the
hydration needs of the population, particularly in urban
areas (Nwachukwu et al., 2019).
 Water quality analysis is essential for safeguarding public
health by ensuring that drinking water meets safety
standards and regulations (WHO, 2011).
 Monitoring and assessing water quality parameters such as
microbiological contamination and physiochemical
properties help identify potential health risks and guide
interventions to improve water treatment processes and
distribution systems (Gad, 2018).

3. Statement of Problem
 There is a dearth of comprehensive data regarding the microbiological and physiochemical quality of
sachet water sold in Nassarawa L.G.A, which hinders the assessment of its safety for consumption.
 The consumption of contaminated sachet water may pose significant health risks to the residents of
Nassarawa L.G.A, including waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever.
 There may be disparities in the microbiological and physiochemical quality of sachet water among
different brands sold in Nassarawa L.G.A, leading to varying levels of safety and suitability for
consumption.
 Limited regulatory oversight and enforcement mechanisms may contribute to inadequate quality
control measures in the production and distribution of sachet water, exacerbating the risk of
contamination.
 Poor water quality can have far-reaching implications for public health, particularly in densely
populated urban areas like Nassarawa L.G.A, where access to safe drinking water is essential for
preventing waterborne diseases and promoting overall well-being.

4. Significance of the Study
 The significance of the study lies in its
potential to address critical gaps in knowledge
regarding the microbiological and
physiochemical quality of sachet water in
Nassarawa L.G.A, Kano.
 By comprehensively analyzing the safety and
suitability of this widely consumed drinking
water source, the study can inform
policymakers, water suppliers, and the
community about potential health risks and
guide interventions to improve water quality.
 Additionally, findings from this research can
contribute to the development of evidence-
based strategies for ensuring access to safe
drinking water and protecting public health in
similar urban areas across Nigeria and
beyond.

5. Objectives of the research proposal
1 Evaluate Microbiological Quality
Assess the presence of bacteria,
fungi, and other microorganisms in
the water samples.
2 Analyze Physiochemical Properties
Examine the pH, turbidity, color, odor,
and other chemical characteristics of
the water.
3 Identify Contamination Sources
Determine potential sources of
contamination and assess their
impact on water quality.
4 Compare with Regulatory
Standards
Compare the findings with local and
international water quality standards
for safe consumption.

6. Methodology and Study Design
Sampling Techniques
The research will employ both
random and systematic
sampling techniques to
ensure a representative
selection of sachet water
samples.
Each technique will be
meticulously designed to
avoid bias and capture the
diversity of available
products. The sampling area
will cover various locations
within Nassarawa L.G.A of
Kano.
Research Method
The study will utilize a blend
of qualitative and quantitative
research methods to
comprehensively analyze the
microbiological and
physiochemical properties of
the sachet water samples.
Interviews, surveys, and
scientific experiments will be
conducted to gather data for
the research.
Study Design
A cross-sectional study
design will be used to assess
the sachet water samples at a
specific point in time,
providing valuable insights
into their quality and safety.
The study will also
incorporate analytical
laboratory experiments to
investigate the characteristics
of the water products.

7. Methodology and Study Design

8. Sampling and Data Collection
Procedures
1 Site Selection
Identify diverse areas within Nassarawa L.G.A to ensure representation.
2 Sampling Method
Randomly select sachet water samples from different vendors and sources.
3 Data Collection
Record detailed information about the date, time, and location of each sample.

9. Microbiological analysis of sachet water
samples
The microbiological analysis involves
examining the water samples for the presence
of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses,
and protozoa.
It aims to determine the microbial
contamination level and assess the
suitability of the water for consumption.

10. Physiochemical analysis of sachet water
samples
During the physiochemical analysis,
parameters such as pH, turbidity, and
conductivity will be measured to assess the
overall quality of the sachet water samples.

11. Data analysis and interpretation
Component Analysis
Microbiological findings Quantitative and qualitative assessment
Physiochemical properties pH, turbidity, and conductivity assessment
Comparison with standards Regulatory and international quality benchmarks

12. Expected outcomes and potential
implications
1
Improved Water Quality
Enhanced public health
2
Regulatory Compliance
Impact on industry standards
3
Consumer Awareness
Educational impact on water consumption

13. Conclusion
• Evaluation of alternative water sources: Assessing the
feasibility of alternative sources like borehole water and water
purification systems.
• Public awareness campaigns: Implementing education
programs to promote safe water practices and increase consumer
awareness.
• Policy recommendations: Providing evidence-based
recommendations to improve water quality standards and
regulations.

14. References
Olajide, T., Afolabi, O., & Omonigbehin, E. (2017). Sachet water quality and brand preference in urban areas of
Ogun state, Nigeria. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2017, 6010890.
https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/6010890
Nwachukwu, M. I., Olayemi, I. K., & Adebowale, O. (2019). Bacteriological and physicochemical assessment of
sachet water in Akinale, Ogun state, Nigeria. Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management, 23(9),
1583-1591. https://doi.org/10.4314/jasem.v23i9.18
World Health Organization (2011). Guidelines for drinking-water quality (4th ed.). World Health Organization.
https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/publications/2011/dwq_guidelines/en/
Gad, A. H. (2018). Impact of water quality on public health: A case study of some villages in Menoufia Governorate,
Egypt. Journal of American Science, 14(6), 114-126.