SACHET ECONOMY, STOMACH WOES: INVESTIGATING THE GASTROINTESTINAL RISKS OF DRINKING WATER IN PLASTIC SACHETS IN ENUGU

Abstract

In many Nigerian cities, including Enugu, the consumption of drinking water packaged in plastic sachets—commonly known as “pure water”—has become a widespread solution to unreliable municipal water supply, particularly for low- and middle-income populations. However, concerns regarding its microbiological safety and potential gastrointestinal (GI) health risks persist. This study investigated the GI risks associated with sachet water consumption in Enugu. Using a cross-sectional descriptive design conducted between January and April 2025, we analyzed 100 sachet water samples for microbiological quality and surveyed 386 adult consumers regarding consumption patterns and self-reported GI symptoms. Results revealed that 39% of sachet water samples exceeded permissible limits for total coliforms, 28% tested positive for Escherichia coli, 12% contained Salmonella spp., and 9% contained Shigella spp., while 45% exhibited high heterotrophic plate counts. Over half of surveyed consumers (55.4%) reported GI symptoms—including diarrhea (41.2%) and abdominal cramps (36.5%)—within the preceding six months. Statistical analysis identified high sachet water consumption (>5 sachets/day), purchase from street vendors, and low education levels as significant predictors of GI symptoms (p < 0.05). The findings underscore the urgent need for improved regulatory oversight, consumer education, and infrastructure investment to mitigate GI health risks linked to sachet water consumption in Enugu.