Quality criteria analyzed in bottled mineral waters sold in the five regions of Brazil: a descriptive review

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an increase in the sale of bottled mineral water in Brazil. This is due to the reliability that mineral water can offer the consumer, especially in relation to quality and safety. In this context, this study carried out a bibliographical survey of works related to the physical-chemical and microbiological quality of bottled mineral waters sold in different Brazilian states. Studies in Portuguese were reviewed, from 2016 to 2022, which addressed pH, turbidity, conductivity, total hardness, chloride and microbiological, in 500 mL and 20 L containers. Data from samples collected in twelve states in Brazil. In total, twenty-four works were selected. pH and microbiological analyzes were the most representative (58.3% of studies) and turbidity analysis was the least representative (16.6% of studies). More than half of the samples presented pH below the ideal range. Although most of the analyzes are in accordance with current Brazilian legislation, almost a third of the samples analyzed showed contamination by total coliforms, with emphasis on the state of Minas Gerais and 20 L bottles that presents the highest percentages. This study demonstrates the need for continuous monitoring of the quality of mineral water sold in Brazil, in addition to greater inspection by the competent bodies.