Physicochemical quality of the three most consumed bottled mineral water brands in Moçâmedes, Namibe, Angola
Keywords:
agua mineral embotellada, calidad del agua, agua subterránea, parámetros fisico-químicos, MoçâmedesAbstract
In Moçâmedes, consumption of bottled mineral water is high due to limitations in the public water supply, raising concerns regarding the quality of the brands on sale. This study assessed the physico-chemical quality of the most widely consumed brands of bottled mineral water in the municipality of Moçâmedes, comparing the laboratory results with the limits established by the World Health Organisation and Angolan legislation. A descriptive, cross-sectional study with an analytical-laboratory component was conducted, using questionnaires and physico-chemical analyses of water samples. The parameters assessed included temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, residual chlorine, total iron and total hardness. The results demonstrated compliance with health-related standards for most parameters. However, iron concentrations exceeded the WHO aesthetic guideline value (0.3 mg/L) in two brands, whilst residual chlorine (0.18 mg/L) was detected in one sample. The water samples analysed showed low mineralisation and low hardness, indicating relatively protected groundwater sources. Overall, the waters assessed were of adequate physico-chemical quality for human consumption. Periodic monitoring and improvements in labelling practices are recommended.Downloads
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Copyright (c) 2026 Adelino Felizardo Canivete-Malheiro, Agostinho Francisco Cachapa, Martins Kamota-Abel, Wedeingue Egidio Daniel-Hach, Akaz Malasssa-Bumba, Isaac Fernando Gomes-Bumba, Tchimanda Simeão Imbo-Ndjamba, José João Matchala
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