Sachet water poses health risk-Dr. Sunkari warns

Dr Emmanuel Sunkari, a Medical Geologist and a lecturer at Obuasi School of Mines, has advised sachet water producers to clearly state the expiry date of the water on the water sachets to prevent consumers from drinking expired water.

He explained that the "Best Before 3 months", written on the sachets, does not indicate the production date. He mentioned that the expiration date of the water should show on the sachet.

Speaking to Info Radio, he stressed that some of the sachet waters are not well treated, leading to the cause of diseases in the consumers.

Dr Sunkari also cautioned producers and retailers of sachets water to store the water in a hygienic place and keep the water away from the sun.

"The Ghana Statistical Service has reported that the pure water we drink may contain human feces. Most of the boreholes we rely on for water are located in our homes, where we use the water for bathing, washing dishes, and other purposes. Sachet water manufacturers also source their water from these boreholes."

He explained that most sachet water in the market does not have specific dates of manufacture and expiration. According to him, the "best before three months" label usually written on the sachet of water does not provide information on the actual expiration date of the water.

He warned that some consumers may drink the water after six months of expiration, which could have negative health implications.

He cautioned farmers to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers on crops because they are polluting the water bodies and also causing diseases to unborn babies when pregnant women drink the water.

Dr Sunkaari added that the intake of polluted water causes stomach pains and cancer to the consumer. He advised that water producers should always treat the water to protect them from diseases.