Determination of the Shelf Life of Packaged (Sachet and Bottled) Water in Bells University Community

Packaged water in sachets and bottles intended for public consumption should be sourced from municipal water supply systems, boreholes, wells of sanitary quality, safe for drinking. Yet, many Nigerian communities consume unclean water leading to outbreak of waterborne diseases and deterioration of public health. Therefore, this study assessed the shelf life of packaged water in Bells University of Technology, Ota to protect the health of staff and students. Samples (bottled and sachet water) were obtained from the University's Consult and analyzed for physico-chemical parameters in the Central University laboratory. Analyzed over three months, 12 samples (6 each of bottled and sachet water) were assessed. Parameters were tested according to American Public Health Association (APHA) standards, while results were compared with World Health Organization (WHO) standards for drinking water quality. Average results in mg/l included; pH (7.53), Electrical conductivity (114), Turbidity (0.04), Nitrate (0.28), Phosphate (0.033), Calcium (0.051), Magnesium (0.018), Potassium (0.048), Hardness (119), Colour (0.03), Sodium (0.76), Manganese (0.05), Lead (0.005), Aluminum (0.04), Biochemical oxygen demand (0.005), Iron (0.004), Taste (Unobjectionable) and Odour (Unobjectionable). Although fit for consumption, some samples exhibited varying physico-chemical levels, thereby requiring further treatment.