Biochemical Investigation of Sachet Water Sold in Garki Market, Abuja: Heavy Metals, Microbial Load, and Health Implications

Biochemical Investigation of Sachet Water Sold in Garki Market, Abuja: Heavy Metals, Microbial Load, and Health Implications

Abstract

Sachet water, popularly known as “pure water,” serves as a major source of drinking water for urban dwellers in Nigeria, including residents of Abuja. However, improper production, packaging, and storage conditions often compromise its quality. This study investigated the biochemical quality of sachet water sold in Garki Market, Abuja, focusing on heavy metal contamination, microbial load, and potential health risks. Water samples were collected randomly from different brands and analyzed for lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) concentrations using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Microbial analysis assessed total bacterial and coliform counts through standard plate and most probable number (MPN) methods. Results revealed that some sachet water brands contained elevated levels of lead and cadmium beyond WHO permissible limits, as well as microbial contamination indicative of poor hygiene during production and handling. The findings suggest a potential risk to public health, emphasizing the need for stricter regulatory enforcement, routine monitoring, and consumer awareness to ensure the safety of sachet water in Abuja.

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Access to clean and safe drinking water remains a fundamental public health challenge in many developing countries, including Nigeria. The rising demand for portable and affordable drinking water has fueled the growth of sachet water production across urban areas. In Abuja, sachet water is consumed daily by thousands of residents due to its affordability and convenience. However, concerns about its safety persist, especially regarding contamination with heavy metals and microorganisms.

Sachet water may become contaminated during production, packaging, or distribution. Environmental factors such as industrial emissions, poor sanitation, and inadequate waste disposal can increase the concentration of toxic metals like lead and cadmium in water sources. Similarly, poor hygienic practices during filtration and sealing processes promote microbial growth. When consumed, these contaminants can cause biochemical disturbances and chronic health issues, including liver and kidney dysfunctions, gastrointestinal infections, and neurological problems.

Evaluating the biochemical quality of sachet water sold in major markets such as Garki provides valuable insight into consumer safety and environmental hygiene. This study therefore investigates the presence of heavy metals and microbial load in sachet water brands and discusses their health implications on the local population.

1.1 Statement of the Problem

Despite the perceived safety of sachet water, several reports across Nigeria indicate contamination by pathogens and toxic metals. The increasing dependence on sachet water in Abuja means that any contamination poses a serious public health risk. Unfortunately, many small-scale producers operate without adequate quality control or regulatory supervision. Garki Market, a densely populated commercial area, represents a critical distribution point for several sachet water brands. Determining the biochemical quality of these products is essential for assessing consumer safety and guiding public health interventions.

1.2 Aim and Objectives of the Study

Aim:
To investigate the biochemical quality of sachet water sold in Garki Market, Abuja, with a focus on heavy metals, microbial contamination, and related health implications.

Objectives:

1. To determine the concentrations of selected heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Fe, and Zn) in sachet water samples.

2. To assess the microbial load, including total bacterial and coliform counts, in the samples.

3. To compare observed contaminant levels with World Health Organization (WHO) drinking water standards.

4. To evaluate the potential health risks associated with consumption of contaminated sachet water.

5. To recommend measures for ensuring better quality control and public safety.

1.3 Significance of the Study

This study provides essential data on the biochemical and microbiological quality of sachet water in Abuja. The findings will help public health authorities, regulatory agencies, and producers understand the risks associated with poor-quality water. Moreover, it will raise consumer awareness about the need for careful selection and handling of sachet water. By linking heavy metal exposure and microbial contamination to potential health outcomes, the research also contributes to policy development on water safety standards in Nigeria.

1.4 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on sachet water samples sold in Garki Market, Abuja. Analyses include heavy metal determination (lead, cadmium, zinc, and iron) and microbial load evaluation (total bacterial and coliform counts). Only sachet water brands readily available in the market during the study period were considered. The research emphasizes biochemical and microbiological assessments without extending into sensory or physicochemical evaluations such as taste or turbidity.

1.5 Research Questions

1. Are sachet water brands sold in Garki Market contaminated with heavy metals or microorganisms?

2. Do the detected contaminant levels exceed WHO standards for drinking water?

3. What are the possible health implications of consuming contaminated sachet water?

4. How can producers and health authorities ensure compliance with safe production practices?

1.6 Hypotheses

• H₀: Sachet water sold in Garki Market, Abuja, does not contain heavy metals or microbial contamination above WHO permissible limits.

• H₁: Sachet water sold in Garki Market, Abuja, contains heavy metals or microbial contamination exceeding WHO permissible limits.

1.7 Justification of the Study

In many Nigerian cities, sachet water serves as the primary source of drinking water for both low- and middle-income households. Continuous monitoring of its quality is therefore critical to preventing disease outbreaks and chronic toxic exposure. Abuja’s status as the Federal Capital Territory makes it a reference point for public health regulation. By focusing on Garki Market, this study highlights the need for stronger enforcement of hygiene standards in water production and packaging.