A PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF MICROBIOLOGY, FACULTY OF SCIENCE, ADEKUNLE AJASIN UNIVERSITY, AKUNGBA-AKOKO, ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT The microbiological quality of packaged drinking water is a critical public health concern, as contaminated water remains a potential vehicle for the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms. This study carried out a comparative analysis of microbial loads in table water obtained from roadside vendors and mall outlets to evaluate their safety for human consumption. Standard microbiological methods were employed: Nutrient Agar was used for the isolation of total heterotrophic bacteria, MacConkey Agar for the detection of coliforms, and Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) Agar as a confirmatory medium for water indicator organisms such as Escherichia coli. Samples of bottled water were aseptically collected from randomly selected roadside vendors and established mall outlets. After incubation and growth, distinct colonies were enumerated, and microbial counts were recorded. The results revealed that water samples purchased from roadside vendors exhibited significantly higher microbial loads compared to those obtained from mall outlets. Roadside bottled water showed the presence of coliforms and higher colony-forming units (CFUs), indicating possible contamination during handling, storage, or distribution. Conversely, mall-outlet samples generally demonstrated lower microbial loads and fell within acceptable safety limits. This study concludes that table water sold by roadside vendors poses a greater microbiological risk than water obtained from mall outlets. The findings highlight the need for stricter regulatory monitoring, improved handling practices, and consumer awareness on the importance of purchasing table water from certified and controlled outlets to minimize health risks associated with microbial contamination.