Handling Of Milk Research Articles

Reduction in bacterial culture positivity rates at a human milk bank facility of a tertiary care hospital: a quality improvement initiative

BackgroundHuman milk banks (HMBs) offer the best feed for neonates after mother’s own milk (MOM), especially when MOM is insufficient. Although HMBs are founded on standard protocols, contamination and wastage...

The paradox of safe milk supply by small-scale dairy farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa: insights based on current practices in Malawi

Abstract This research paper aimed to assess milking and milk handling practices among small-scale dairy farmers and to determine the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in raw and processed liquid milk in Malawi. A total of 113 dairy farmers were interviewed across three agroecological zones of Malawi. Eighty-seven (87) processed and raw milk samples were collected from selected food stores and dairy farms and tested for E. coli. Ninety-five percent of small-scale dairy farmers had at most 2 milking cows, with a daily average milk production of less than 10 l. Sixty-nine percent cleaned milking utensils using untreated water, and the farmers had no refrigerators. Eighty-eight percent held raw milk for over 6 h at room temperature. E. coli was found to be widely distributed in raw milk (76%) and pasteurized milk (75%), averaging 5.38 ± 1.82 and 2.47 ± 1.02 log cfu ml−1, respectively. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Malawian small-scale dairy farmers employ poor milking and post-milking practices, which compromise the socioeconomic environment of small-scale dairy farmers.

Hygienic Production Practices and Microbiological Quality of Sheep Milk in Ararso District of Jarar Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

This study was conducted to evaluate the hygienic production practices and microbiological quality of sheep milk in Ararso district of Jarar Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia. A stratified sampling strategy was used to choose 180 households specifically for this investigation. A total of 60 pooled raw sheep milk samples (each containing 200 mL) were collected from the udders and milk handling equipment of selected milk producers in the research area. The samples were examined to determine microbiological quality. The data were gathered via a questionnaire, field observation, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The vast majority of respondents in pastoral (86.7%) and agro-pastoral (64.4%) production systems were illiterate. The majority of respondents (70.6%) in the research area cleaned the sheep home (kraal) once every two days. The majority (98.3%) of respondents in the research area milk their sheep in open kraals with no roof or walls. As a consequence, 36.7% of pastoral and agro-pastoral respondents (81.1%) reported cleaning milk vessels on a regular basis. Almost all of the responders in the research area used plastic equipment for milking and handling. The majority of responders in pastoral and agro-pastoralist categories placed barn hygiene first, with indexes of 0.24 and 0.23, respectively. The average total bacterial count (TBC), coiform count (CC) and yeast and mould count (YMC) of raw sheep milk samples were 5.13±0.21, 2.89±0.27, and 0.77±0.21 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. Raw sheep milk samples taken from producers’ milk handling equipment had a substantially higher mean total bacterial count (5.78±0.32 log10 cfu/mL) compared to samples collected from the udder (4.48±0.23 log10 cfu/mL). Milk samples from pastoral and agro-pastoral households had an average coliform count of 3.18 and 2.60 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. The average YMC in milk samples from pastoralists and agro-pastoralists were 0.74 and 0.80 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. In general, pastoralists and agro-pastoralists in the district do not practice hygienic milking and handling. Consequently, the implementation of hygienic milk production and handling practices is essential to enhance the safety and quality of sheep milk in the study area. Additionally, further research should be undertaken to investigate the microbiological aspects and assess the safety and quality parameters of sheep milk in greater detail.

Assessment of the Present Status of Milk Handling and Management Practices in Some Areas of Bangladesh

Milk contamination by dairy workers' spoiled hands, unclean utensils, microbes, and polluted water has caused many milk-borne epidemics. Most milk-borne zoonoses are also contracted by drinking infected milk. Bangladesh lacks milking hygiene and farmer awareness, and the milk cleanliness of dairy farmers awareness and practices in different regions was accessed. This study was aimed at documenting the present milking and management practices of dairy producers in particular districts of Bangladesh. From June 2020 to June 2022, 300 small dairy cow owners in twelve areas were surveyed using a preset questionnaire. Results revealed that male respondents (59.5%) outnumbered female respondents (41.33%) across various age categories. Most farmers milked animals at the shed and washed their hands before milking. Over half of dairy farmers cleansed the udder and teat before milking. More than two-thirds of farmers let the calf suckle before and after milking, while 98.02 percent used concentrate feed for teat massage. Most farmers (95.58%) manually milked cows twice daily. The majority of farmers sold their milk (77.25%) rather than drink it (10.17%). The study found that 93.92 percent of milkmen cleaned the milking pail using water, while 3.5-2.5 percent utilized sand, ash, or detergent. Only 53.66% of dairy farmers washed their cows' udders and teats after milking, which may not be aware of potential contamination from dipping teats in sterile cream. Mastitis prevention was not practiced by 85.42 percent of the respondents. Four to eight percent of producers know about antibiotics, milk adulteration, milk safety, and food safety issues. The application of scientific management approaches to milking is still lacking in the study areas. Therefore, training programs on improved milking management procedures can help farmers produce clean milk, increase dairy animal production, and increase farming income.

Microbial profiling, antimicrobial resistance surveillance, and molecular detection of MecA gene in Staphylococcal strains from donor human milk: Insights from a milk bank investigation

PurposeDonor human milk (DHM) from milk banks provides vital nutrition to vulnerable infants. Understanding its microbial profile and antimicrobial resistance patterns is crucial for ensuring its safety and efficacy. This study aimed to profile the microbial composition, detect antibiotic resistance, and identify the presence of mecA gene in Staphylococcal strains from DHM samples. Materials and methodA total of 151 DHM samples were collected from a regional human milk bank in North India. Microbial identification was performed using MALDI TOF MS, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the disc diffusion method. Molecular methods, including PCR, were employed for mecA gene detection. ResultsThe study revealed a diverse microbial profile, with Staphylococcus species being predominant. Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas species were also prevalent, raising concerns due to their association with healthcare-associated outbreaks. High rates of antibiotic resistance were observed across both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with resistance to commonly used antibiotics such as penicillin, clindamycin, erythromycin, and ceftriaxone. The mecA gene, associated with methicillin resistance, was detected in a significant proportion of Staphylococcal isolates. ConclusionThe study underscores the importance of rigorous microbial analysis and antimicrobial susceptibility testing in assessing the safety of DHM. The presence of diverse microbial species, including antibiotic-resistant strains and the mecA gene in Staphylococcal strains, emphasizes the need for stringent hygiene practices and continuous surveillance in milk banks. Implementing comprehensive screening protocols and adhering to best practices in milk handling and pasteurization are crucial for safeguarding the health of vulnerable infants reliant on donor milk.

Microbiological Evaluation of Two Mexican Artisanal Cheeses: Analysis of Foodborne Pathogenic Bacteria in Cotija Cheese and Bola de Ocosingo Cheese by qPCR.

Cotija and Bola de Ocosingo are artisanal ripened cheeses produced in Mexico. Both are made with raw bovine milk from free-grazing cows and with no starter cultures. Unlike culture-based techniques, molecular methods for pathogen detection in food allow a shorter turnaround time, higher detection specificity, and represent a lower microbiological risk for the analyst. In the present investigation, we analyzed 111 cheese samples (95 Cotija and 16 Bola de Ocosingo) by qPCR (TaqMan®) after an enrichment-culture step specific to each foodborne bacterium. The results showed that 100% of the samples were free of DNA from Listeria monocytogenes, Brucella spp., Escherichia coli enterotoxigenic (ETEC), and O157:H7; 9% amplified Salmonella spp. DNA; and 11.7%, Staphylococcus aureus DNA. However, the threshold cycle (Ct) values of the amplified targets ranged between 23 and 30, indicating DNA from non-viable microorganisms. Plate counts supported this assumption. In conclusion, 100% of the cheeses analyzed were safe to consume, and the enrichment step before DNA extraction proved essential to discern between viable and non-viable microorganisms. Hygienic milking, milk handling, cheese manufacturing, and ripening are crucial to achieve an adequate microbiological quality of cheeses made with raw milk.

Identification and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Staphylococcus species isolated from raw cow milk, and swabs in smallholder dairy farms in Meta district, Eastern Ethiopia

BackgroundThe safety of milk production in terms of foodborne infections is a worldwide issue, particularly in developing countries where production is often unhygienic. A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2018 to August 2019 in the Meta District of Eastern Hararghe Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. We aim to assess milk hygiene practices among smallholder dairy farmers, estimate the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in raw cow milk and swabs, assess associated risk factors, and the antimicrobial susceptibility test of S. aureus isolates. Face-to-face interviews with 30 respondents randomly selected from smallholder dairy farmers were used to assess the potential risk factors for S. aureus contaminations in milk. A total of 177 samples were examined using standard microbiological testing. The disc diffusion technique was also employed to assess the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates. The data was analyzed using STATA® version 14.0 statistical software.ResultsAccording to the milk hygiene assessment, 80% of respondents did not wash cow udder before milking, did not use detergent to clean milk containers, and did not keep milk refrigerated before consumption or sale, while 63.3% of milk consumers ingested raw milk. They had never heard of staphylococci foodborne disease. Likewise, the overall prevalence of S. aureus was 12.42% (95%CI: 8.32–18.98). The prevalence of S. aureus in udder milk, equipment swabs, and milkers’ hands was 18.8%, 26.7%, and 30%, respectively. The prevalence of S. aureus in milk is significantly associated with age, and mastitis history (p < 0.05). Moreover, old and mastitis positive animals were eight (OR: 8.40; 95%CI: 1.68–41.89) and four (OR: 4.33; 95%CI: 1.37–13.66) times more likely to be infected by S. aureus than adult, and mastitis negative animal. The isolates were resistant to penicillin G (97.4%) and tetracycline (69.2%) whereas susceptible to kanamycin, streptomycin, vancomycin, and cefotaxime, at 84.6%, 71.8%, 64%, and 58.8%, respectively.ConclusionThis study revealed the presence of antimicrobial-resistant patterns of S. aureus on commonly used antibiotics, as well as inadequate milk handling practices in the study area. Thus, awareness should be created on proper milk handling and hygiene as well as appropriate uses of antibiotics should be encouraged.

Conditions and Antimicrobial Resistant Profiles of Campylobacter Species from Cow Milk Samples in Oromia Region, Ethiopia

Campylobacter is one of the major causes of gastroenteritis and is commonly transmitted through the consumption of raw milk or improperly pasteurized milk. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2019 to March 2020 in four study sites in the Oromia region of Ethiopia to isolate, identify, and estimate the prevalence of Campylobacter species in milk samples and to determine their antibiotic susceptibility pattern. A total of 384 cow milk samples were randomly chosen from 192 samples of raw milk from farmers and collectors and 192 samples of pasteurized milk from processors and retailers. Standard bacteriological techniques and PCR were used to isolate and identify Campylobacter spp. Of the total 384 milk samples, 35 (9.1%) were found to be positive for Campylobacter spp. The prevalence of Campylobacter spp. was highest in collector raw milk (13.5%), farmer raw milk (12.5%), and pasteurized milk (5.2%).The antibiotic susceptibility test was performed using the disc diffusion method. The most prevalent Campylobacter spp. isolated from milk samples was Campylobacter jejune (C. jejuni) (100%). The overall prevalence of Campylobacter in dairy value chains, including producer, collector, processor, and retailer, was 12.5%, 13.5%, 5.2%, and 5.2%, respectively. Cold storage, material type for making collection rooms, calibrating the pasteurizer machine, restricting milk handlers that are sick, means of transportation, and maintaining temperature during transportation had a statistically significant association. 100% and 8.6% of the Campylobacter isolates were sensitive to ciprofloxacin and chloramphenicol, respectively. However, all of the isolates were resistant to ampicillin, clindamycin, oxytetracycline, and trimethoprim. Moreover, 80% of the C. jejuni were resistant to tetracycline and streptomycin. 26% of the species developed ciprofloxacin degradation. The result of this study revealed the prevalence and risk factors of Campylobacter species in raw and pasteurized milk samples. Hence, there is a chance of acquiring infection via the consumption of raw or undercooked milk. Thus, the implementation of hygienic practices from the producer to the retailer&amp;apos;s market, proper handling to avoid cross-contamination and proper pasteurization are very important in preventing Campylobacter infection.

Seasonal variation of Salmonella enterica prevalence in milk and cottage cheese along the dairy value chain in three regions of Ethiopia

Seasonal fluctuations influence foodborne illness transmission and affect patterns of microbial contamination of food. Previous investigations on the seasonality of Salmonella enterica prevalence in dairy products in Ethiopia have been minimal. However, such data are needed to inform strategic development of effective interventions to improve food safety, as seasonal differences may affect intervention strategies. This study was conducted to identify differences in the prevalence of Salmonella in milk and cheese samples between wet and dry seasons. A longitudinal study design was utilized with a random sampling occurring during both dry and wet seasons. A total of 448 milk and cottage cheese samples were collected from Oromia, Sidama, and Amhara regions. Samples were tested for Salmonella using the ISO 6579-1: 2008 method, followed by PCR confirmation. A chi-square test was conducted to assess the significance of differences in the prevalence of Salmonella in the samples between the two seasons. Results from this study showed a higher prevalence of Salmonella in all sample types during the dry season (P < 0.05). Moreover, when comparing raw milk, pasteurized milk, and cottage cheese samples, a significant difference was observed in Salmonella prevalence from raw milk samples (27.08%) collected in the Oromia region. Additionally, data showed a significantly higher prevalence of Salmonella in samples collected from raw milk producers (29.17%) during the wet season (P < 0.05). This study indicates that in order to enhance the safety of dairy products in Ethiopia, comprehensive, long-term awareness building on hygienic milk production and handling that consider seasonal influence is warranted.

Isolation of Staphylococcus Aureus from Camel Milk, the impact on Value Chain and its Antimicrobial Susceptibility Condition in Babile District, Eastern Hararghe, Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to June 2022 in the Babile, Eastern Hararghe, Ethiopia, to isolate Staphylococcus aureus along the Camel milk value chain and determine its susceptibility to different market-available antimicrobials. From a total of 223 samples examined, 18.4% (41) were positive for S. aureus. There was a statistically significant difference (P = 0.001) in the isolation of S. aureus from milk udders at the producer and milk from containers at collectors and retailers. The isolates were highly susceptible to ciprofloxacin (100%) followed by gentamycin (92.7%), erythromycin (92.7%), kanamycin (90.2%), cefoxitin (68.3%), amikacin (65.9%). However, they were highly resistant to penicillin G (100%) followed by Ampicillin (85%), tetracycline (68.3%) Streptomycin (51.2%), and oxacillin (51.2%). An attempt was made to determine the milk handling practices and consumption behavior of actors in the milk value chain by using a field survey that included milk producers, sellers, and consumers. It revealed poor milk handling practices, raw camel milk consumption, and inadequate knowledge of milk-borne diseases. In general, the study has revealed a high possibility of public health risk posed by S. aureus in the Eastern Hararghe Zone. Public awareness about good milk handling practices, pasteurization or boiling milk before consumption, rational use of drugs, and periodic assessment of the antimicrobial sensitivity of drugs before use is strongly recommended.

Extended-SpectrumBeta-LactamaseProducingEscherichia coli in Raw Cow Milk At Selling Points and Determinants of Contamination in and Around Chencha, Southern Ethiopia.

Bacterial foodborne infections are a major public health concern globally, and the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in food worsens the associated problems which are alarming issues. The current study aimed to isolate E. coli, determine antimicrobial resistance patterns, estimate the prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli, and determinants of raw cow milk contamination at selling points in and around Chencha, Southern Ethiopia from January 2021 to April, 2022. A total of 384 milk samples were collected randomly using a cross-sectional study and processed in the laboratory for evaluation of microbial load, bacterial isolation, and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. The determinants were assessed through a prepared questionnaire, and descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed using SPSS version 21. Out of 384 milk samples analyzed for microbial loads, 5.3±1.68 log and 2.17±1.51 log CFU/mL respectively were the mean values of total viable count and total coliform count. A total of 118 (30.7%) samples were contaminated with E. coli of about 11.8% extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producers. Notably, 91 (77.1%) of isolates were multiple drug-resistant isolates. The multivariable logistic regression showed that variables of educational status of milk handlers, hand washing activities, nose picking habit of milk handlers, milk container cleaning activity, milk container type, physical abnormal milk checking status, and attended training on hygienic food handling practices type were significantly associated with the milk contamination in the study area. The results implied that the raw milk samples served in the study area contained bacterial pathogens and a higher microbial load than recommended standards. Our data also confirmed the presence of multiple drug resistant and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing E. coli. Therefore, a close follow-up and training of milk handlers is needed. Besides, consumers should be made aware of the risks of consuming raw milk.

Camel Milk Resistome in Kuwait: Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the major global health and economic threats. There is growing concern about the emergence of AMR in food and the possibility of transmission of microorganisms possessing antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to the human gut microbiome. Shotgun sequencing and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing were used in this study to provide a detailed characterization of the antibiotic resistance profile of bacteria and their ARGs in dromedary camel milk. Eight pooled camel milk samples, representative of multiple camels distributed in the Kuwait desert, were collected from retail stores and analyzed. The genotypic analysis showed the presence of ARGs that mediate resistance to 18 classes of antibiotics in camel milk, with the highest resistance to fluoroquinolones (12.48%) and disinfecting agents and antiseptics (9%). Furthermore, the results pointed out the possible transmission of the ARGs to other bacteria through mobile genetic elements. The in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated that 80% of the isolates were resistant to different classes of antibiotics, with the highest resistance observed against three antibiotic classes: penicillin, tetracyclines, and carbapenems. Multidrug-resistant pathogens including Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Enterobacter hormaechei were also revealed. These findings emphasize the human health risks related to the handling and consumption of raw camel milk and highlight the necessity of improving the hygienic practices of farms and retail stores to control the prevalence of ARGs and their transmission.

Perceptions, practices, and associated factors towards expressed breastfeeding among mothers in Jakarta, Indonesia

Background Expression of breast milk is a strategy to ensures continuous breastfeeding during temporary separation of infant from the mother. Handling and storage of expressed breast milk (EBM) should be based on established recommendations because these practices can affect milk quality and safety. Objective To describe perceptions and practices of EBM handling and storage, compare with commonly used recommendations and associated factors influencing these practices among mothers in Jakarta, Indonesia, Methods Mothers who practiced expressed breastfeeding (EBF) to their 6-12 weeks-old infants completed questionnaires about their peceptions and practices on how they handle and storage EBM. The differences in perceptions and practices about expressed breastfeeding management were analyzed using the Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. Results Among 30 mothers, 14/30 gave EBF exclusively, 19/30 used breast pump, and 26/30 expressed ³6 times/day. Infants in this study received expressed milk 5-10 times per day. Maternal age and resource of information were factors significantly associated with mother’s perceptions, while maternal age, education, and parity were significantly associated with the practices of EBM handling and storage. Conclusion This study reveals inconsistent perceptions and practices on expressed milk handling and storage by the mothers. They have good knowledge about the theoretical aspects of expressed breastfeeding, but some other techniques are poor, which can be detrimental to the health of the infants. Further study is needed to find more efficient and optimal methods of expressed milk handling and storage, necessitating thoughtful consideration of better practices and recommendations.

Traditional Dairy Production and Milk Handling Practices in Mareka District, Dawuro Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia

This study aimed to assess traditional dairy production, management, and milk handling practices in the Mareka district of the Dawuro zone in southwestern Ethiopia. Samples included 96 dairy cattle-producing households across three agroecological zones. Data collection methods were structured questionnaires, observations, and discussions with key informants. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. According to the study's findings, lactating cows constituted 28% of the overall herd population in the highlands and lowlands and 27% in the midlands. While 83% of households kept animals in the same house as their family, 15% housed them in the kitchen. Notably, cows in the highlands had a significantly shorter calving interval (17.3±0.78 months) compared to the midland (24.5±1.46 months) and lowlands (23.2±1.58 months). Average lactation lasted 229.3±6.69 days, with milking starting 51.6 days after calving. During peak periods, daily milk production per cow varied from 1.22±0.06 liters in the lowland and midland to 1.63±0.10 liters in the highlands. The average lactation yield per cow was 198.82 liters, with higher yields observed in highland cows, followed by midland and lowland cows. The study emphasizes the importance of empowering farmers and improving management practices to enhance the impact of traditional dairy practices on human nutrition and community livelihoods. Keywords: traditional dairy production, calving interval, lactation length

Community Practices, Published Guidelines, and Evidence Base Surrounding Breast Milk Handling and Storage: A Qualitative Study.

Background: Expressed breast milk (EBM) is the best alternative to direct breastfeeding. However, expressing breast milk requires good milk handling and storage practices to preserve EBM safety and integrity. Mothers require handling and storage guidance, and many seek this from the internet and online support groups. Aim: This study aimed at exploring EBM handling and storage practices within an online exclusively expressing community and comparing these with both internet resources and evidence-based research. Methods: A naturalistic observational design was used. Content analysis was undertaken on 10,000 posts from an Australian Facebook peer-support community for women who exclusively express breast milk. Women's questions, reported practices, and advice for EBM handling and storage were analyzed thematically and compared with both guidelines and evidence-based research. Findings: There were 460 posts on EBM handling and storage. Three key themes emerged: "How should I store my EBM?," "How long can I store my EBM?," and "How do I use my EBM?" The greatest consistency and agreement between recommendations and community practices were found for storage methods, whereas the least was found for storage times. EBM handling and storage practices were influenced by factors such as EBM value, convenience, and cost, leading to occasional deviations from consistent practice recommendations. Conclusion: To facilitate safe EBM handling and continuation of expression, guidelines should be updated so they are consistent, align with current evidence, and cater to mothers' cost, convenience, and milk wastage concerns. Health care providers can partner with women to evaluate online information to empower mothers in their decision making.

Isolation, Identification and Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of Pathogenic Staphylococcus Aureus from Intensive Dairy Farms in Modjo and Adama, Central Ethiopia

Staphylococcus aureus plays its most significant animal pathogenic role as cause of intra mammary infections in cattle and small ruminants leading to considerable economic losses in cattle farming. A cross sectional study was conducted from February to June 2019 in Adama and Modjo town, to isolate and identify S. aureus and their susceptible to different antimicrobials. Out of a total of 160 samples examined,20.6 % (33) were positive for S. aureus. Of this, 13/86 (15.1%), 20/74(27%) were positive for S. aureus atModjo and Adama, respectively. All 33 isolates were tested for antimicrobial resistance with 12 selected antibiotics. The isolates were highly susceptible to gentamycin (100%), streptomycin 24(72.7%), ciprofloxacin21 (63.6)), and kanamycine20 (60.6%), however, they were highly resistant to methicillin 31(93.9%), penicillin G 30(90.9%), tetracycline 21 (63.6%) and erythromycin (60.6%) respectively. Out of the resistance S. aureus isolates, 31 (93.9%) were developed multidrug resistant against 8 antibiotics. The S. aureus isolates from the dairy farms in the study area were multi drug resistant. Hence, public awareness about good management in dairy farms and milk handling practices, rational use of drugs and periodic assessment of drug sensitivity test should be done to prevent the current global issue which is antimicrobial resistance.

Whole genome sequencing analysis of non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in milk in Kwara State, Nigeria.

Escherichia coli is a major cause of poor microbial quality of milk, often resulting from unhygienic milk handling. Milk contamination poses public health concerns. Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strains in food products, particularly milk, is a critical concern for public health. Limited information exists on the detection of non-O157 E. coli pathotypes in milk sold by local processors in Nigeria. This study aimed to explore the diversity of non-O157 STEC isolates found in commercially available milk in Kwara State, Nigeria, to find the genetic diversity and potential risks associated with these strains. A subgroup of 18 representative non-O157 STEC isolated from milk samples (n=1225) was selected for whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis. Four novel sequence types (ST): ST398, ST540, ST1727, and ST9891 of non-O157 E. coli involving five serotypes: O176:H30, O176:H20, O8:H20, O21:H45, and O22:H7, carrying variable proportions of virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance genes, and plasmids, were identified. This investigation contributes valuable data to the ongoing efforts to ensure food safety and prevent the transmission of E. coli strains through dairy products. The findings have implications for public health policies and food quality standards in Kwara State, Nigeria. Improved hygienic practices during milk handling are recommended.

Antibiotic Resistance in Fermented Foods Chain: Evaluating the Risks of Emergence of Enterococci as an Emerging Pathogen in Raw Milk Cheese

Fermented foods, particularly fermented dairy products, offer significant health benefits but also present serious concerns. Probiotic bacteria, such as lactic acid bacteria (LAB), found in these foods have been strongly linked to the selection and dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). This study aims to examine the potential risks associated with fermented foods, despite their importance in human nutrition, by analyzing the entire production chain from raw material acquisition to storage. Focusing on cheese production as a key fermented food, the study will investigate various aspects, including dairy farm management, milk acquisition, milk handling, and the application of good manufacturing practices (GMP) and good hygiene practices (GHP) in cheese production. The findings of this review highlight that ARGs found in LAB are similar to those observed in hygiene indicator bacteria like E. coli and pathogens like S. aureus. The deliberate use of antibiotics in dairy farms and the incorrect use of disinfectants in cheese factories contribute to the prevalence of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria in cheeses. Cheese factories, with their high frequency of horizontal gene transfer, are environments where the microbiological diversity of raw milk can enhance ARG transfer. The interaction between the raw milk microbiota and other environmental microbiotas, facilitated by cross‐contamination, increases metabolic communication between bacteria, further promoting ARG transfer. Understanding these bacterial and ARG interactions is crucial to ensure food safety for consumers.

Handling of human milk to prevent acquired cytomegalovirus infection in Japanese neonatal intensive care units: The first nationwide survey.

Human milk (HM) has been proven to provide immunological and nutritional advantages to neonates; however, acquired cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection can be associated with raw HM. In Japan, there are no standardized guidelines concerning HM handling. This cross-sectional survey was performed to reveal specific trends in HM handling in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in Japan. A questionnaire was sent to 255 NICUs participating in the Japanese Neonatologist Association in May 2020. It involved HM handling practices, such as maternal screening, pasteurization, storage, and the workforce. Of 255 NICUs, 174 (67.8%) responded to the survey. Maternal CMV screening was carried out in 37 units (22.2%), and CMV inactivation in HM was performed in 44 units (26.5%). For CMV inactivation, a freeze-thawing method was employed in about 90% of units. In 70% of units providing CMV inactivation, CMV inactivation was conducted regardless of bodyweight and corrected gestational age of infants until the infants' discharge. Acquired CMV infection in preterm neonates was observed in 43 units (25.7%) in the survey period. A wide range of HM handling practices are used in Japanese NICUs. A national guideline for handling HM in NICUs should be created to promote the infection control of CMV.

Physicochemical quality of cow milk collected from different sources in Adewa,Central zone of Tigray, Ethiopia

The study was conducted in Adewa, central zone of Tigray Ethiopia, aimed to asess the physicochemical quality of raw cow milk collected from smallholders, cafeterias and local vendors. A total of seventy samples of raw cow milk were collected and analysed. All samples were collected using proportional random sampling method. The mean values for pH, specific gravity, titratable acidity, freazing point, Total solid , fat, Solid not fat, protein, ash and lactose contents of milk samples collected from smallholders and cafeterias were 6.640±0.03,1.032±0.04, 0.165±0.01, -0.530±0.07, 12.84±0.05, 3.98 ±0.04, 8.86±0.01, 3.69 ±0.03, 0.58 ±0.06, 4.58 ±0.0 and 6.40 ±0.00, 1.026 ±0.00,0.19±0.004, -0.48±0.009, 14.81±0.003, 4.63 ±0.005, 10.2±00,4.24±0.005, 0.73±0.0013 and 5.20 ±0.002 respectively. In the case of milk samples collected from local vendors PH, specific gravity, titratable acidity, freezing point, Total solid, Solid not fat, Protein ash and lactos content were 6.27±0.007, 1.022±0.00, 0.28±0.006, -0.49±0.001, 14.1±0.002, 4.12±0.008, 9.94±0.003, 4.41±0.003 and0.74±0.002 respectively. The study found that the chemical quality of samples collected from cafeterias and local vendors was significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) than samples from small scale milk producers. However, the physicochemical quality of samples fromall three sources was within the standard level, except for pH and titratable acidity in the samples from cafeterias and local vendors. This indicates that a need for improved physicochemical quality standards, providing training and education for small-scale milk producers, cafeterias, and local vendors on proper milk handling and storage practices, to enhancing the overall quality of milk in the region