Comparative Evaluation Of The Physicochemical Properties Of Spring And Mineral Waters Marketed In Algeria

Abstract

Water, the cornerstone of human life, deserves sustained attention. As an essential element for hydration, hygiene, cooking, and food production, its quality directly influences public health. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly monitor indicators such as turbidity, pH, and the presence of pathogenic bacteria or chemical pollutants. These controls allow for the rapid detection of any contamination and the implementation of necessary corrective measures to guarantee clean and safe drinking water. The constant vigilance of health authorities and the involvement of citizens in preserving this vital resource are thus essential to ensuring sustainable access to quality water. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical quality of water resources, primarily from coastal and central Algeria, intended for consumption. To this end, twenty water samples were collected from retail markets. The results of the physico-chemical analyses showed that all the samples had values ​​in accordance with the Algerian national standards relating to the quality of drinking water with the exception of bicarbonates from the resources of Mesaad, Ovital, Ayris, Ifri, Togi, Taya, Menbaa, Medjana, Qniaa, Arwa, Guerrioun, Besbassa, El kantara, Toudja, Ain bouglez, Tazliza, Guedila, Mansourah and Messerghin. In this study, the Water Quality Index (WQI) for eleven physicochemical parameters (pH, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, K⁺, Na⁺, HCO₃^-, Cl^-, NO₂^-, NO₃^-, SO₄^2-, and SR) was used to assess the drinking water quality of groundwater resources in northern, central, and eastern Algeria during the period from January to April 2025. The majority of these water resources are of excellent quality, with the exception of the Ain Bouglez resource, which was of Moderate quality due to its low calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate content, which reduced the water's mineral content.