Role of microbes in smell/taste complaints

The project will focus on identifying smell and taste complaints, and determining the extent to which microorganisms may be the cause. Molecular methodologies such as qPCR will be used to detect “smell/taste” microorganisms. Ultimately, this will result in a test protocol that drinking water utilities can use for smell and taste complaints in drinking water distribution systems, drinking water treatment plants, and untreated surface waters.

Activities

The project consists of four principal activities:

1. A survey at the drinking water utilities of parameters linked to smell and taste complaints.
2. The identification of microorganisms involved in the production of smell and taste molecules by applying qPCR protocols and a metagenomic study.
3. Establishing and testing a test protocol for water samples when there are smell and taste issues.
4. Making the test protocol, including all laboratory protocols, available to the drinking water utilities and the drinking water laboratories.

Objectives

1. A broad overview of the current status of the smell/taste problem.
2. Quantitative qPCR methods for the detection and quantification of microorganisms that produce smells and tastes.
3. A test protocol with the analyses required to identify smell and taste issues in drinking water resulting from microbes.
4. Proof of principle with respect to the capacity of the test protocol to detect and interpret smell/taste problems in the drinking water distribution system, clean water, treatment and untreated surface water.