Evaluation of Chemical Quality in Selected Brands of Bottled Drinking Water from Tajura, Libya

Abstract

In modern society, the consumption of bottled water has become increasingly popular due to concerns over the quality of tap water. In the face of increasing scrutiny over the quality of bottled water and its health implications, the aim of this investigation is to evaluate the chemical quality of collected brands of bottled drinking water available in Tajura, Tripoli- Libya.  This research focuses on physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and the concentrations of essential ions such as sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), and sulfate (SO₄²⁻), using standard techniques in laboratory.The electrical conductivity (EC) measurements ranged from 114 μs/cm to 193 μs/cm, while the total hardness varied between 16.03 mg/L and 60.01 mg/L. The pH levels were found to be between 6.01 and 7.16. Potassium concentrations ranged from 0.47 to 2.02 mg/L, calcium levels from 3.21 to 9.61 mg/L, and magnesium content from 0.94 to 11.6 mg/L. Additionally, bicarbonate levels ranged from 17.1 to 30.6 mg/L, and sulfate concentrations varied from 5.1 to 10.2 mg/L.The findings were meticulously compared to both Libyan specifications and standards and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines to determine compliance and safety standards.The results of all parameters indicated that every bottled water brand complied with safety standards established for public health regulations and policies. This study will contribute to the development of effective strategies aimed at ensuring that all individuals have access to clean and safe drinking water