ASSESSMENT OF SACHET WATER QUALITY AND CONSUMER PREFERENCES IN IKPOBA OKHA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENIN CITY, NIGERIA
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Abstract
Sachet water plays a vital role in providing accessible and affordable potable water to low-income populations, particularly due to its widespread accessibility. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of sachet water and investigate consumer preferences within the selected local government area. Using a convenience sampling approach, 100 questionnaires were randomly administered across various locations to capture consumer insights. A mixed-methods approach, combining descriptive and experimental analyses, was employed to ensure a robust assessment of both qualitative and quantitative data. The study effectively evaluated the physicochemical properties of three leading sachet water brands available in the area, offering a comprehensive overview of their quality and consumer acceptance. The analysis revealed that the pH levels of all sachet water samples ranged from 6.98 to 7.0, aligning with the permissible limits established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Similarly, other physicochemical parameters, including electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, salinity, and total suspended solids were all within the acceptable standards set by WHO. These findings demonstrate that the examined sachet water brands conform to internationally recognized safety benchmarks. However, the study underscores the critical need for enhanced quality control measures within the sachet water industry to ensure the protection of public health. It recommends routine regulatory inspections, mandatory medical screening for producers, and transparent reporting of violations. Furthermore, the study contributes to the broader discourse on equitable access to safe drinking water, emphasizing the pivotal role of consumer education and public awareness in promoting informed choices and improving health outcomes.
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