.Microbiology Of Retailed Powdered Milk Sold In Umuahia:- Samuel, Favour N

ABSTRACT

Five samples of powdered milk collected from retailed shops in the market were analysed for microbial quality. The milks were tested for total aerobic count (TAC), coliform counts and various foodborne pathogens. TACs ranges from 2.98 x 10° to 3.64 x 10° cfu/ml. Escherichia coli were detected in 25% of the samples. Bacillus cereus was confirmed in 27% of the samples. Staphylococcus aureus was detected in 27% of the samples. Lactobacillus was detected in 15.5% of the samples. fumigatus, and mucor sp was observed for the fungi isolates. An apparent relationship between high aerobic count detection of coliforms and presence of food- borne pathogens was observed. These findings suggest that most of the powdered milk sold by retailers may constitute sources of bacterial food poising, consequently public health hazards. The need for improvement and maintenance of good hygienic practices by food handlers in this country is emphasized