FMIPA UI Examines Effectiveness of Bottle Cap Seals in Protecting Drinking Water from Dust and Microbial Contamination

Depok, May 21, 2025. Researchers from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) of the University of Indonesia (UI) through the Special Work Unit of the Applied Science Laboratory (UKK LST) conducted a study on the role of bottle cap seals in maintaining the hygiene of packaged drinking water (AMDK) against potential contamination from the surrounding environment.

According to the Head of the Chemistry Laboratory of FMIPA UI, Dr.rer.nat. Agustino, S.Si., M.Sc., although the AMDK production process has followed strict sanitation standards, the risk of cross-contamination remains during the distribution and storage process, especially during exposure in open spaces.

"Several microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus niger are known to survive on the surface of inanimate objects for quite a long time. Staphylococcus aureus, for example, can survive up to four days on the surface of stainless steel. This shows the potential risk that can also occur on the surface of plastic bottles," explained Agustino.

In this study, the team used a simulation approach that represents real environmental conditions such as grocery stores, terminals, and minimarkets, as well as extreme laboratory tests. Drinking water bottles with and without protective seals were tested after being exposed to dust and microorganisms for 1 to 6 hours. The main focus of the test was on the accumulation of dust particles, bacterial colonies, and mold on the bottle cap and neck area.

The test results showed that the presence of a bottle cap seal significantly reduced the level of contamination. Under extreme laboratory conditions, the seal showed high effectiveness in preventing the entry of dust and microorganisms. These findings reinforce the importance of innovation in AMDK packaging design to ensure product safety until it reaches consumers.

This study is also a real example of the application of scientific research in the industrial and public health sectors. UI Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Prof. Dr. Hamdi Muluk, M.Sc., said that this kind of research shows UI's scientific contribution that has a direct impact. "This research shows how a scientific approach can provide practical solutions to challenges in society, in line with UI's mission as an excellent and impactful institution," he said.

FMIPA UI is committed to continuing to develop applied research that can answer real problems and provide direct benefits to the wider community, especially in the fields of food security and environmental health.