Abstract

Bacterial biofilms have been linked with protracted and recurring human infections, and considering that biofilms shed microorganisms into their environment it becomes pertinent to examine their role in waterborne diseases through consumption of treated packaged water. To evaluate the consortia of bacteria in packaged water for the ability to form biofilms. Using membrane filtration technique polythene sachet and pet bottles water randomly collected were examined for bacterial contamination and biofilm forming ability of isolated bacteria. A pH range of 5.0-8.5 was at 25°C while 32% had residual chlorine of less than 0.6 mg/L. Eighty-two percent of the 130 bottled water brands and 71% of the 170 sachet water conformed to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Biofilm formation was demonstrated in 70% of the 112 bacterial isolates. This study identifies the presence of a biofilm-forming microorganism in packaged water sold within Lagos metropolis.

Key word: Bacteria, membrane filtration, bottle water, sachet water, biofilms.