Assessment of some physical and chemical properties of the group of locally bottled drinking water brands sold in the markets in Mukalla city- Yemen

Abstract

This study aimed to determine some physical and chemical properties of some locally made types of bottled drinking water circulating in the markets in Mukalla and compare them with the Yemeni standard specifications. 18 random samples of bottled drinking water from different companies were randomly selected during the period from December 2020 to June 2021 from markets in the city. The samples were kept in a cool, well-ventilated place and away from sunlight until the time of analysis. Analyzes were carried out to determine: Calcium (Ca²⁺), Magnesium (Mg²⁺), Sodium (Na⁺), Potassium (K⁺), Chloride (Cl^-), Sulfate (SO₄^2-), TDS, and pH. The samples were investigated in laboratory at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Marine Biology, Hadhramout University, by known scientific methods. The Yemeni national standards were adopted as a standard to assess the samples. The results showed that the concentration of: Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Cl^-, SO₄^2-, TDS and pH in all samples did not exceed the maximum limits set by Yemeni standards. Regarding Na⁺ and K⁺, the results showed that 89% of the Na⁺ samples and 94% of the K⁺ samples failed to meet the Yemeni standards, and this may lead to long-term health risks for humans. This study concluded with presenting of some recommendations and proposals that would improve and develop the bottled drinking water industry.