TEST RESULTS

FOR MICROBIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY Microbiological contamination of water has long been a matter of concern to the public. Many infectious microorganisms found in the environment – such as shigella, E. coli, vibrio, salmonella, coliform, S. aureus, faecal streptococci, yeast and mould, V. cholerae, V. parahaemolyticus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa – can contaminate the water supplied to us. These microorganisms can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach cramps. In healthy adults, these illnesses are usually mild and do not last long. In infants, children, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems, these illnesses can be more severe.

The results of our tests, conducted as per the requirements set out by Indian Standard, are reproduced here. • Aquafina, Bailley, Royal Blue and A4X failed to meet the microbiological requirements – hence they are not safe for consumption. Total viable colony count was found to be high in all four brands. Also, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was detected in these brands. • Yeast and mould was found in Aquafina.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause a range of infections but rarely causes serious illness in healthy individuals without some predisposing factor. It predominantly colonises damaged sites such as burn and surgical wounds, the respiratory tract of people...