(ORDO News) — A recent study by scientists at Loma Linda University (LLU) identified microbial contamination in common drinking water sources in the eastern Coachella Valley, including soda fountains at fast food restaurants. The study found that 41% of water samples taken from these fountains contained total coliforms, which serve as an indicator of water contamination.
The researchers carried out molecular analysis of the water samples and found traces of genetic material from bacteria such as Salmonella spp, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Because of the findings, the study authors recommend that soda fountain owners regularly clean and flush their machines to prevent water contamination.
The study, titled “Analysis of Microbial Contamination in Drinking Water from Vending Machines and Fast Food Restaurants in the Eastern Coachella Valley, California,” is believed to be the first of its kind to evaluate the quality of water from soda fountains, water vending machines, swabs, and tap water in the eastern part of Coachella Valley. Thomas Haile, Ph.D., M.S., a postdoctoral fellow at LLU and lead author of the study, discussed the significance of the study.
The researchers collected a total of 72 water samples from soda fountains, water vending machines and tap water sources in the eastern Coachella Valley. They measured physicochemical parameters on site and returned the samples to the laboratory for further analysis using traditional culture methods and molecular analysis.
The analysis revealed the presence of biofilms – organized communities of organisms that are widespread in nature and pose a serious problem in various conditions. In some cases, the amount of bacteria present in samples from the fountain exceeded the maximum permissible levels set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The study authors stressed the importance of addressing the presence of pathogens in drinking water, saying it is a serious public health issue that cannot be ignored.
Based on their findings, the researchers suggest that biofilms may form over time in water supplies, particularly in the plastic pipes that carry water to fast food fountains and water vending machines. They also noted that if not properly maintained, soda fountain filtration systems cannot effectively prevent water contamination.
The East Coachella Valley is an environmental justice area that includes the city of Coachella and the unincorporated communities of Thermal, Oasis, Mecca and North Shore. These communities are home to mostly Latino families, including migrants and farmworkers, who face challenges accessing safe drinking water.
Dr. Haile stressed the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance of water dispensers to prevent water contamination. He said: “By regularly cleaning and rinsing these dispensers, we can significantly reduce the risk of microbial contamination of drinking water sources.”
Dr. Charles Gerba, a microbiologist at Arizona State University, emphasized the need for good hygiene when servicing water dispensers. He said: “People should be aware that these dispensers can become contaminated and should be cleaned regularly to prevent potential health risks.”
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News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
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