Heavy Metals and Physicochemical Assessment of Some Selected Sachet Water Around Sokoto Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Sachet water is commonly consumed as portable water in almost every part of
Nigeria including Sokoto state in Northern part. Present study, assessed levels
of heavy metals and physicochemical properties in five brands of sachet water.
Levels of Lead, Cadmium, Chromium, Iron, Zinc and Manganese were
determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The pH of the
samples was measured using pH Meter. Taste, colour and odour were analyzed
using senses of taste, sight, and smell respectively. Samples B, C, D and E
were found to contained high Cadmium levels (mg/L) 0.0048, 0.0127, 0.0130
and 0.0061 respectively. Samples A, C and E were found to contained high
mean levels (mg/L) of Chromium 0.0837±0.0645, 0.1674±0.0171 and
0.1116±0.0214 respectively, compared to WHO and SON limit. samples D and
E have high Iron levels (mg/L) of 0.4642±0.0128 and 0.4642±0.0128
respectively compared to WHO and SON limit. All the water samples analyzed
in this study have elevated levels of Manganese compared to SON and WHO
limit. Similarly. All the water samples analyzed have pH below the SON and
WHO recommended limit except sample A. the water samples analyzed were
found to be tasteless, odorless and colorless. We found some sachet water to
contained heavy metals above the limit set by regulatory bodies, and
consumers may be exposed to hazards. Water samples intended for drinking
purposes should be treated to reduce the levels of heavy metals present in
them to the levels that are not harmful to the human body.