Biological and Chemical Quality of Sachet-Packaged Water in Togo: Public Health Risk Analysis in the Urban and Peri-urban Areas of Atakpamé, Togo

Water is vital for human health, yet many regions struggle to provide safe drinking water that meets WHO drinking water quality (GDWQ). Since the 2000s, there has been a proliferation of sachet-packaged water in Togo, commonly called "Pure Water”. It is perceived as a safer alternative to tap water and is highly appreciated by the local population due to its affordability and availability. Therefore, this study aims to assess the health risks associated with water consumption in Atakpame by analyzing microbiological and physico-chemical parameters. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining field surveys and laboratory analyses to evaluate compliance with standards. The survey revealed that over 70% of factories have an unhealthy environment, with inadequate employee hygiene practices, highlighting severe public health concerns. The physicochemical assessment highlighted issues of over-demineralization, with significant cations such as calcium (≤ 17 mg/L) and magnesium (≤ 7.8 mg/L) nearly absent. This raises concerns about the nutritional quality of the water but also suggests that current purification methods may excessively strip beneficial minerals for human health. A comparative study of samples at T0 and T30 showed germ growth during storage. Awareness-raising among the population, improved production practices, and employee training can mitigate the various health risks. Addressing these challenges is essential for protecting public health in Atakpame and ensuring that sachet-packaged water remains a safe and reliable source of hydration for communities across Togo.