Total Coliform Counts Research Articles

Effects of L. reuteri NBF 2 DSM 32264 Consumption on the Body Weight, Body Condition Score, Fecal Parameters, and Intestinal Microbiota of Healthy Persian Cats.

In the literature, there are several studies showing the effects of different probiotic administrations in dogs, while there is limited information about their effects in cats. Furthermore, there are no studies that examined the effects of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus reuteri on cats' welfare, especially considering a specific breed. In this study, the effects of L. reuteri NBF 2 DSM 32264 on body weight, body condition score (BCS), and fecal parameters (fecal score and fecal moisture) of healthy Persian cats were assessed; additionally, a microbiological analysis was carried out to quantify bacterial species like Escherichia coli (for the total coliform count) and Lactobacilli. The administration of L. reuteri NBF 2 DSM 32264 showed no alteration in the body weight and body condition score of Persian cats. The fecal moisture decreased at the end of the study and the values of fecal score were improved. Moreover, at the end of the study period, an increase in Lactobacilli (p > 0.001) was observed. The data collected report the ability of L. reuteri NBF 2 DSM 32264 to improve fecal quality parameters in healthy adult Persian cats, leading to an increase in Lactobacilli and a reduction in total coliforms.

Microbial evaluation of borehole water used by selected bakeries in Ijebu-North, Ogun State, Nigeria

Water is one of the most important components of dough systems used to produce bread and other bakery products. Water could serve as a direct or indirect source of microbial contamination during baking, handling, or packaging, thereby affecting the quality and safety of bakery products. This study investigated the presence of faecal coliforms in water sources of selected bakeries in Ijebu North Local Government Area. Water samples were collected from the main sources of three bakeries located in the Ijebu North Area. Physical and microbiological parameters were then investigated and compared to the WHO guidelines. The average temperature and pH ranged between 24.30 and 25.27oC and between 6.40 and 6.73, respectively. The average total bacterial and coliform counts of the water samples collected from the three bakeries were in the ranges of 1.80-3.60 x 104 CFU ml−1 and 1.60-2.70 x 104 CFU ml–1, respectively (p < 0.0001). Twenty-nine isolates comprising four species (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella spp.) were observed in this study. The study showed that all water samples under analysis were tainted with faecal coliform, which makes the water unsafe for use in bakeries.

Assessing lab-scale hybrid wetland performance for pollutant and pathogen removal from high organic loading septage

A laboratory-scale three-staged hybrid constructed wetland (CW) system was operated for the treatment of septage. The Hybrid-CW, covering an area of 1.92 m2, consisted of a sludge drying bed (SDB) of 0.41 m2, a vertical sub-surface flow bed (VSSF) of 0.58 m2, and a horizontal sub-surface flow bed (HSSF) of 0.93 m2. The SDB, VSSF and HSSF beds were operated at an average hydraulic loading rate (HLR) 22.2, 5.2 and 3.2 cm d−1. With an average organic loading rate (OLR) of 28.8 g d−1 the Hybrid-CW confirmed effective removal of BOD5, COD, TS, and TSS by 99.2 ± 0.3% and 99.4 ± 0.2%, 96.4 ± 0.8% and 86.9 ± 2.4%, respectively. The correlation between effluent TS and TSS concentrations with influent concentrations indicated a dependence of TS and TSS removal on influent concentration. Average total coliform count in influent and effluent was observed as 6.3 × 107 and 1.6 × 103 CFU L−1respectively. Average helminthes eggs count in the influent and effluent was recorded as 5 × 107 and 2 × 104 eggs L−1 respectively. With an inlet TS loading of 177.5 g d−1, the hybrid CW system attained 96.4% TS removal and 87% TSS removal. The sludge drying bed, operating with a remarkably high TS loading of 861.9 ± 77.1 g m−2 d−1, avoided clogging and achieved >90% removal rates for total coliform and helminthes eggs along with around 60% for TS and BOD. Furthermore, the system exhibited excellent removal rates of over 99% for both total coliform (TC) and helminthes eggs (HE). Treated septage meets the Indian wastewater discharge criteria for BOD, COD, TS and TN.

Effect of water quality on causes of calf mortality in cattle-farm-associated epidemics

Abstract. Poor-quality drinking water plays a detrimental role in the suppression of calf immunity, giving rise to an increased rate of calf mortality. The present study aims to evaluate the causes of calf mortality in beef and dairy farms in relation to drinking water quality (DWQ). A convenience sample of 132 Egyptian cattle farms suffering from emerging epidemics was surveyed by collecting drinking water samples for physicochemical and microbial analysis and using a questionnaire to record hygienic risk factors affecting calf health. Statistical analysis correlates water parameters with rates of calf diarrhea, respiratory problems, severe depression, sudden death and mortality. High percentages of water sample quality parameters, e.g. pH, total dissolved solids (TDSs), hardness, chloride, nitrate, sulfate, total colony count (TCC) and total coliform count (TCFC), are above permissible limits. Water parameters, except pH, show a significant moderate positive correlation with causes of calf mortality (ρ 0.331–0.66) in winter and summer. Each cause of calf mortality was predicted by a specific water parameter, and the water nitrate level was the highest predictor, with the highest values (β = 0.504–0.577), followed by the water TDS, sulfate and microbial levels. Weak to moderate correlation (ρ 0.151–0.367) was found between calf mortality causes and some hygienic risk factors such as operation type, calf housing, calf feeders, bedding type, water source, water pipe type, drinker lining and wheel dipping. We could conclude that DWQ greatly affects causes of calf mortality, but we cannot exclude some farm hygienic risk factors.

Physicochemical and bacteriological quality of swimming pools water in Kombolcha Town, Northeastern Ethiopia.

The use of swimming pool water for recreation, rehabilitation, and athletics is widespread around the world, especially in large Cities and Towns. However, poorly managed swimming pool water can facilitate the spread of illnesses connected to recreational water. Despite this, there is no evidence on quality of swimming pools water in Kombolcha Town. Therefore, this study was aimed to evaluate the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of swimming pools water in Kombolcha Town. A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April, 2021 in Kombolcha Town. A total of 90 water samples were collected from the three outdoor swimming pools. The collected data of both physicochemical and bacteriological parameters were entered into Microsoft Excel 2010 and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. One-way ANOVA was used to test whether there were statistically significant differences between different swimming pools. The level of significance was declared at a p-value of <0.05. In this study, out of all the pool water samples that were examined, 37.8% had pH values between 7.2 and 7.8, 36.7% had temperatures between 21°C and 32°C, and 26.7% had turbidity values that were within the WHO standard. Furthermore, only 16.7% of the pool water samples showed residual chlorine levels of 2-3 mg/L. In addition, only 27.8, 35.6, and 32.2% of the samples, respectively, met the WHO criterion for total coliform, fecal coliform, and heterotrophic plate count. The result indicates that most pool water samples did not fulfill both the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of the WHO standard limit for swimming pools. Thus, it is crucial to clean and regularly check the pool water, apply pool safety requirements, and raise pool user's awareness about the danger of pool water pollution through training.

Bacteriological Analysis of Cow Milk (Nono) Sold Within Gusau Metropolis, Zamfara State

Fresh cow milk popularly called Nono was collected from ten (10) different sellers at different areas within Gusau metropolis and one control was collected directly from a lactating cow and transported immediately to Microbiology Laboratory of Federal University Gusau where they wereassessed for their bacteriological quality. The total bacteria viable count of the ten Nono samples ranged between 6.6 x105 to 2.7 x106 cfu/ml, the total coliforms count ranged between 4.2x105 to 2.2x106cfu/ml, the range of the total Staphylococcal count and total lactic acid bacterial count were 2.5x105 to 4.0x106 cfu/ml and 5.9x105 to 1.7x106 cfu/ml respectively. The control sample had total viable count of 5.6 x 103 cfu/ml, total staphylococcal count of 3.2 x 103 cfu/ml, total lactic acid bacteria count of 4.2 x 103 cfu/ml whereas the coliform count gotten was too few to count (TFTC). The isolates were identified based on their morphological characteristics, Gram's reactions and biochemical profiles and a total of seventy-four (74) bacterial isolates belonging to the genus Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Streptococcus, Micrococcus, Pediococcus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Proteus, Klebsiella, Enterobacter and Staphylococcus spp. were identified from the eleven samples analyzed. The presence of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Nono is very good as they are one of the most significant groups of probiotic which not only enhance lactose digestion but also stimulate the immune system, However, the presence of E. coli and the other enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus sp. is of public health concern because they can cause several diseases therefore it was concluded that the bacterial loads of the Nono samples were not satisfactory with the exception of the control which had organisms within the acceptable limit of 30,000/ml for raw milk. The presence of potential pathogenic bacteria in all of the Nono samples is an indication that the samples were contaminated and this can potentially cause diseases to the consumers, Hence the need for public enlightenment for handlers and producers of Nono to observe good manufacturing practices in production and storage of the product to avoid outbreak of infections associated with the organisms encountered in this study.

Chemical characteristics and microbiological loads of harvested rainwater run-off from roof tops in South Eastern Nigeria

The study evaluated rainwater quality harvested from roof top catchments viz Asbestos, Aluminum, Corrugated and Harvey roof tops in southeastern, Nigeria. Chemical and microbiological species viz pH, Total Dissolved Solids(TDS), Electrical conductivity (EC), Nitrate(NO3−), Sulphate (SO42−), Chloride(Cl−), Total bacteria load(TBL), Total Coliform Count (TCC), Salmonella Shigella Agar (SSA), Thiocitrate Bile-salt Sucrose( TCBS), Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) were investigated from samples of rainwater roof top run off during onset rain (April), peak rain (July) and cessation (October) rain events in 2022. Results of chemical parameters show significant variation p ≥ 0.05 among the catchments with increased mean concentration of pH(6.5), TDS(25.7 mg/l), EC(43.6μS/cm),NO3−(0.72 mg/l) SO42(4.73 mg/l), Cl(8.81) during onset rain more than the peak and cessation rain, with asbestos rainwater having the highest levels but below WHO/FMENV drinking water limit. Positive and negative correlations existed between the chemical parameters in temporal scale and originating from human activities with the temporal variability in decrease order: April ≥ October ≥ July. Microbial parameters in rainwater revealed mean TBL(6.6 × 104 cfu/ml), TCC(2.6 × 103 cfu/ml) and control (5.8 × 104 cfu/ml) with Aluminum top (8.2 × 104 cfu/ml) recording highest in onset rain more than the peak and cessation rain events. All of the microbial parameters were above the WHO standards which indicates a very high public health risk if consumed without treatment. Organisms found in rainwater from roof types are: Enterobacter sp., Staphylococcus aurous, Streptococcus sp., Bacillus Sp. and Escherichia coli. Based on the results, treatment of rainwater, operation, maintenance methods should be upheld for quality assurance of harvested rainwater.

Bacterial Contamination of Drinking Wells in Makurdi Metropolis

This study was carried out to assess the bacterial contamination of drinking wells in Makurdi metropolis. Fifteen (15) untreated water samples, five (5) each were collected from wells in High Level, Wurukum and Wadata areas for physicochemical and bacteriological analysis was done using pour plating and the bacteriological quality was assessed by measuring the total viable, total coliform and fecal coliform counts of bacteria in the samples using Mac Conkey agar and Nutrient agar. The results of the analysis showed that the pH ranged from 6.70 ± 0.16 to 7.40± 0.87, the temperature levels ranged from 28.72 ± 0.04 to 28.87 ±0.05; biological oxygen demand values ranged from 0.02 ±0.04 to 0.02 ± 0.41; the dissolved oxygen values ranged from 1.50 ±0.16 to 170 ± 0.14 while the Electrical conductivity values ranged from 599.20 ±88.98 to 1582.80±199. The results also showed the total viable count, total coliform count and fecal coliform counts ranging from 75.80±16.01cfu/ml to 117.40±34.45cfu/ml; 5.60±5.13cfu/ml to 6.60±6.88cfu/ml and 0.40±0.89cfu/ml to 4.20±3.77cfu/ml respectively. The total viable counts ranged from 75.80±16.01 to 117.40±34.4 (Wadata having the highest and Wurukum having the least), the total coliform counts ranged from 5.60±2.61 to 6.60±6.88 while the fecal coliform count ranged from 0.40±0.89 to 4.20±3.77. The variation in Total Viable Count (TVC) across locations could be as a result of localized factors influencing microbial populations and geographical differences such as land use, anthropogenic activities, and environmental conditions. The bacterial isolates were Bacillus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp, Proteus spp, Enterobacter spp, and Staphylococcus spp. The frequency of occurrence and prevalence percentages of the bacteria isolated from the well water samples show that Klebsiella spp had the highest percentage (23.33%) while Enterobacter spp and Escherichia coli had the least prevalence percentage, representing 10.00% each. Overall, High Level had the highest contamination rate, accounting for 43.33% of the total contamination while Wurukum had the least contamination, representing 23.33% of the total contamination. The distribution patterns of bacterial isolates among the studied locations illuminate discernible trends. The prevalence of pathogenic bacteria in well water sources could be possibly linked to higher urbanization and population density, highlighting the dynamic and site-specific nature of microbial communities. The study highlights the importance of using specific plans to manage water quality. These plans should take into account the special features of each area.

Efficiency of using lactic acid and beefxide to reduce indicator microorganisms on beef in Mosul slaughterhouse.

Meat contamination occurs in various ways, the most important of which are live animals before slaughter and the slaughter process (de-hiding and evisceration). For this, many substances were used that have an antimicrobial effect and can disinfect the surfaces of the carcass and extend its shelf life. This research aimed to study the efficiency of using some organic acids (lactic acid and beefxide) to reduce the microbial load (indicator microorganisms) on the surfaces of beef carcasses and some edible organs in the Mosul slaughterhouse. Two hundred sixty-four swabs (192 carcasses + 72 edible organ samples) were collected over the course of three months from the Mosul slaughterhouse in Nineveh Governorate between September 2023, and December 2023 (132 treated with organic acids and 132 not treated). The petrifilm method was used to detect indicator microorganisms in the samples. Our results showed that the contamination rate in beef carcasses with generic Escherichia coli, coliforms, total coliform counts, and Enterobacteriaceae before treatment was 0.81, 1.22, 1.48, and 1.38 mean log colony forming unit (CFU/cm2), respectively. While the contamination rate in samples treated with organic acids for generic E. coli, coliforms, total coliform counts, and Enterobacteriaceae was -0.1, 0.31, 0.45, and 0.41 mean log CFU/cm2, respectively. Moreover, the level of contamination with indicator microorganisms in edible organs treated with organic acids was lower compared to untreated samples. Even though there was contamination with indicator microorganisms in the liver, heart, and kidney, there was no "significant" difference between them. Whereas there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between lactic acid and beefxide solution in terms of reducing the rate of contamination of the indicator microorganisms in carcasses and the edible organs samples. Regarding the type of swabs used in the study, the results showed the effectiveness of sponge swabs, as the rate of microbial recovery (indicator microorganisms) was higher (p < 0.01) compared to cotton swabs. The study demonstrated the efficiency of using organic acids (lactic acid and beefxide solution) in reducing the microbial load to a level that does not cause diseases.

Undervalued tuna meat (Thunus obesus and Katsuwonus pelamis lineaus) to develop sausages

Background: The tuna industry is one of the most essential sectors in global food production. Nevertheless, commercial meat known as "tuna loin" holds the utmost significance in producing and marketing its various products. Regrettably, fractions like tail and head meat have been overlooked and wasted due to their comparatively lower commercial value. Despite possessing notable technological value, this meat is typically reutilized into animal feed through flour production, missing the chance to create alternative high-value food products. Objective: This study aimed to develop and evaluate the sausages produced with the underutilized cuts of tuna (tail and head meat). Methods: The tuna utilized were Big-eye (Thunus obesus) and Skip-jack (Katsuwonus pelamis lineaus). Three (3) different types of sausages were formulated using 100% of Big-eye (BE), 100% of Skip-jack (SJ) tuna meat, and 100% of beef/pork meat (Control). The sausage pH changes during storage at 4 ± 1oC were analyzed and compared with the control. Proximal, microbiological, and sensory characteristics were evaluated. Results: The pH of sausages showed that the values tended to decrease in control, while this value increased in two types of tuna. The formulated tuna sausages yielded 72% moisture, 18% protein, 4.1% lipid, 0.4% ash, 0.4 % fiber, and 4.5% carbohydrates. Sensory attributes showed excellent acceptance regarding color, smell, flavor, and texture. Overall acceptability was qualified as "liked," and the acceptability index ranged from 76% to 86%. During the refrigeration storage, the microbiological analyses indicated that the total coliform count was &lt; 3 CFU/g. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and mesophilic aerobic bacteria in tuna sausage showed absence during 24 days of storage. Conclusion: Using tuna tail and head meat enabled the development of gel-type emulsified products (sausages) that exhibited good nutritional, sensory, and microbiological quality.

Effect of Palm Oil Processing Waste on Soil Microorganisms

This work was carried out to perform the comparative analysis on the effects of palm oil processing waste (POPW) on soil Microorganisms. Three soil samples were collected from three different locations, North bank, Wurukum, and High-level where palm oil processing waste are being discharged. The samples were analyzed, Soil samples unimpacted with POPW served as control. The physicochemical parameters of the soil samples that is pH, moisture, Temperature and particulate nature were analyzed using standard methods. The total coliform count, total viable count and total fungal counts were evaluated using the pour plate method. Result showed that the Total Coliform, Total viable count and Total fungal counts (200.77 ±16.525 mean of the three samples, 22.55 ±2.041 mean of three samples and 28.88 ±2.590 mean of the three samples) of the impacted soils were lower compared to the values (291.00 ±13.00 in control soil, 118.33 ±18.717 control soil and 44.33 ±1.527 control soil respectively) of the un-impacted soils which served as control. The bacterial genera isolated from these soil samples include; Bacillus spp, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus spp, Salmonella spp and Proteus spp. The fungal genera isolated from soils with POPW includes; Aspergillus spp, Rhizopus spp, and Mucor spp, the results obtained indicates that POPW have immediate negative impact on soil microbiota as their application could lead to changes which affects soil microbial communities. Therefore, it would be advised that proper guidelines be set up for possible pre-treatment and safe discharge of POPW, in other to avoid its effect on soil micro biota and soil fertility.

Post-harvest processing practices of small-scale fisherfolk from Rosario, Cavite, Philippines: Physicochemical and microbiological properties of tuyo

Dried, salted fish (Sardinella spp.), locally known as tuyo, is a Filipino food staple. Pandawan fisherfolk consider tuyo processing as their main source of livelihood. This study determined the relation of post-harvest practices with the physicochemical and microbiological quality of tuyo. Tuyo processing involves receiving, washing, salting, rinsing, sun-drying, pressing, cooling, and packaging. Although the documented tuyo processing complied with the code of practice, processors needed to follow Good Manufacturing Practices. Moreover, tuyo had lower salt content (7.77–9.08 %NaCl), higher water activity (0.79–0.81), and aerobic plate count (7.82– 8.36 log CFU/g) compared to national standards. Its yeast and mold count (3.58–3.66 log CFU/g) and histamine levels (134–141 ppm) were elevated but within the standard. The final product characteristics may be attributed to GMP non-compliance and high raw fish (aerobic plate count: 6.59–6.69 log CFU/g) and process water (heterotrophic plate count: 10.43 log CFU/mL, total coliform count: &gt;3.20 log MPN/mL, and fecal coliform count: &gt;3.20 log MPN/mL) microbial load. The lack of appropriate fish processing facilities and training programs impedes improving the safety and quality of tuyo. Continuous local government support would aid in ameliorating tuyo, ensuring the production of safe and sustainable foods.

Assessment of Slaughter Slabs Waste Management on Meat, Environment and Public Health in Khartoum State

Stratified random sampling was adopted for this study to detect and interprets the impacts of three slaughter slabs’ waste on the public and environmental health. While hazard analysis critical control points (HACCP) prerequisite programs (PRPs) in the investigated slaughter slabs were assessed by administering structured checklist. Verification for these PRPs by microbiological quality of meat was determined using both Aerobic Plate Count (APC) and Total Coliform Count (TCC). In addition, the assessment of the awareness of neighborhood residence pertaining public health and environmental hazards implications of the slaughter slabs waste was done by administering two semi-structured questionnaires; the first of which targeted 50 respondents of neighborhood residence and the other targeted 10 hospitals located at the vicinity of the slaughter slabs and contained questions pertaining to medical staff perceptions and medical records of cases diagnosed as public health diseases. The result revealed that the three slaughter slabs failed to attain compliance with FAO requirements. This was reflected in the higher microbial content of meat samples with mean total bacteria count (TBC) 16. 7× 10 5; 16. 6 × 105 and 13.9 × 105 in slaughter slabs A, B and C, respectively. A highly statistically significant difference was found in the TBC between the three slaughter slabs with P &lt; 0.05. These values were higher than the standard permissible limit (1× 105). Moreover, the mean total coliform count using (MPN) in the three slabs were 263, 418 and 361 in slaughter slab A, B and C, respectively with a higher significant difference in the TCC compared to the standard permissible limit (1×102) of MPN. The results also showed that 90% of the respondents agreed that there were public and environmental hazards of slaughter slab waste to residential neighborhoods. The findings also disclosed that 100% of the investigated physicians in charge of hospitals in the vicinity of slaughter slabs confirmed that there was association between slaughter slab waste and infectious diseases, gastro-intestinal infections as well as spread of respiratory infection. It could be concluded that slaughter slabs’ waste had negatively impacted both public and environmental health of the residential neighborhoods.

Aflatoxin M1 Concentrations, Adulterants, Microbial Loads, and Physicochemical Properties of Raw Milk Collected From Nekemte City, Ethiopia.

Milk is an essential part of the human diet and is a nutrient-rich food that improves nutrition and food security. The aim of this study was to determine the presence and concentration of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), adulterants, microbial loads, and physicochemical properties of raw cow's milk (CM) in Nekemte City, Ethiopia. A total of 12 samples of fresh CM were purposefully collected from four kebeles in the city (Bake Jama, Burka Jato, Cheleleki, and Bakanisa Kese) based on the potential of each milk production and distributor site. The AFM1 concentration was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a Sigma-Aldrich standard (St. Louis, MO, USA). The concentrations of AFM1 in Bake Jama, Burka Jato, Cheleleki, and Bakanisa Kese were found to be 0.01-0.03 g/L, 0.31-0.35 g/L, 0.19-0.21 g/L, and 0.04-0.07 g/L, respectively. The concentrations of AFM1 in the present study varied significantly (p < 0.05) and ranged from 0.01 g/L to 0.35 g/L. These results show that of the 12 samples tested, all were positive for AFM1 and contaminated to varying degrees. The results of this study also revealed that the concentration of AFM1 in 7 (58%) of the 12 milk samples was above the European Union's (EU) maximum tolerance limit (0.05 g/L). The present study also revealed that of the investigated adulterants, only the addition of water had positive effects on three milk samples, while the remaining adulterants were not detected in any of the milk samples. The total bacterial count (TBC) and total coliform count (TCC) were significantly (p < 0.05) different and ranged from 5.53 to 6.82 log10cfumL-1 and from 4.21 to 4.74 log10cfumL-1, respectively. The physicochemical properties of the milk samples in the present study were significantly (p < 0.05) different and ranged from 2.8% to 5.75% fat, 7.03% to 9.75% solid-not-fat (SNF), 2.35% to 3.61% protein, 3.33% to 5.15% lactose, 11.54% to 13.69% total solid, 0.16% to 0.18% titratable acid, 26.7 to 32.1°C, 6.35 to 6.55 pH, and 1.027 to 1.030 specific gravity. The physicochemical parameters of the raw milk in the study area met the required quality standards. Hence, further studies are required to determine the extent of the problem and the factors associated with high levels of AFM1 in raw milk in the study areas, including the detection of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in animal feed.

Analysis of Microbial and Physicochemical Properties of Raw and Pasteurized Milk at Some Selected Areas of Tangail District, Bangladesh

Objectives: The aim of this study is to analyze the microbial quality and physicochemical properties of raw and pasteurized milk from Tangail District of Bangladesh. Methods: A rigorous study was carried out from April - August 2019 at the Tangail District of Bangladesh for investigation. A total of 18 samples were examined by following the standard bacteriological methods and by using a refractometer and digital pH meter. Results: The results revealed that the highest log of Total Viable Count (TVC) was found as 6.9 and 8.7 CFU/ml in raw and pasteurized milk, whereas the highest log of Total Coliform Count (TCC) was found as 4.4 and 6.3 CFU/ml in raw and pasteurized milk, respectively. When the mean value is greater, then the mean value is displayed on the graph as a logarithm. The highest log of Total E. coli Count (TE.cC) was 6.6 and 6.4 CFU/ml in raw and pasteurized milk, whereas the highest log of Total Staphylococcus Count (TSC) was found as 7.6 and 6.5 CFU/ml in raw and pasteurized milk, respectively. The highest mean pH value was 7.43 and 7.19 in raw and pasteurized milk and the greatest mean value of Total Soluble Solids (TSS) was found as 6.33 and 10.33% in raw and pasteurized milk. Conclusion: It can be summarized that both the raw and pasteurized milk bear higher microorganisms than standards. It might hurt consumers in the long term. So, the milk producers should be trained up properly and the apposite authority should inspect hygienic conditions around milk production and processing and marketed milks to ensure the minimal legal requirements.

Physico-Chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Household Drinking Water from Source to Point of Use in Akewu Community in Ibadan, Oyo State, Southwest, Nigeria

Poor household water storage is one of the major factors contributing to contamination of drinking water in Nigeria. Studies have shown that sizes of containers opening can affect water quality, but little has been documented on comparative effect of storage containers with different opening sizes in improving drinking water quality in Ibadan. This study was designed to assess the effect of different storage containers on household drinking water quality in selected communities in Ibadan. A quasi-experimental design was adopted. Four communities in Ibadan North Local Government namely; Akewu using protected springs as household drinking water sources were purposively selected. Forty-four households (11 from each community) were selected and randomly assigned to four treatment groups; those with Covered Buckets with Taps (CBT), Covered Buckets without Tap (CB), Covered Kegs with Taps (CKT) and Covered Kegs without Tap (CK). Prior to introducing the treatment containers, water samples were collected from their Regular Storage Containers (RSC) and springs for physicochemical and bacteriological analysis using standard methods. Participants were thereafter encouraged to store drinking water in the treatment containers provided for them. Water samples were later collected from CBT, CB, CKT and CK containers twice daily for 3 alternate days over two weeks for bacteriological analysis. In addition, oldest female of selected households were interviewed using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire to elicit information on their socio-demographic characteristics, storage container cleaning and handwashing practices. Results of physicochemical and bacteriological findings were compared with Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) guidelines. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t- test and ANOVA at p=0.05. At baseline, mean pH values of water samples from the springs and RSC were 6.4±0.6 and 7.1±0.7 respectively compared with 6.5-8.5 limits recommended by SON. Mean chloride concentration of springs (14.3±7.4mg/l) and RSC (19.3±10.0 mg/l) samples were below 250mg/l limit recommended by SON. Mean Total Coliform Count (TCC) of the springs in the four communities was 18.0±4.0 and mean TCC of RSC was 12.7±4.9 which exceeded the SON standard of 10MPN/100ml. Five percent of water samples from RSC had mean E.coli count of 100/100ml compared with SON guidelines of 0/100ml. The mean TCC after introducing CB, CBT, CK and CKT in all the communities were 10.0±4.0, 8.5±4.2, 6.9±2.8 and 7.3±3.7 respectively (p&lt;0.05). No E.coli was found in the samples collected from the treatment storage containers. The percentage difference of coliform count in water from springs and RSC was 29.4% while percentage difference from RSC and CB, CBT, CK and CKT were 21.5%, 33.2%, 45.5% and 42.5% respectively. Mean age of the 44 respondents interviewed was 37.9±10.7years. Seventy-three percent washed their hands with only water after defecation and 95.0% stored water for cooking and drinking in the same container. Sixty-eight percent cleaned their containers weekly while 32.0% cleaned twice weekly.

Low-calorie and carrot pulp incorporated shrikhand from low-fat cow milk: Optimization and quality evaluation

&lt;abstract&gt; &lt;p&gt;The present study was undertaken to standardize the milk fat, stevia level, and optimize fortification of carrot pulp at 10, 20 or 30 % levels separately replacing the chakka for production of low-fat and low-sugar functional shrikhand, a fermented Indian dessert from cow milk. On the basis of sensory evaluation, it was determined that the most favorable shrikhand was prepared using milk with 1.5% fat and replacing 60% of the sugar with stevia. Additionally, the incorporation of carrot pulp at a 20% level was identified as the optimal choice. This carrot pulp-enriched shrikhand was further assessed for its physico-chemical attributes such as pH, thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) value and water activity, microbiological quality (including total plate count, coliform, psychrophilic, yeast and mold counts), and sensory characteristics over a 9-day period, with evaluations at intervals of three days (0, 3, 6, and 9 days), and then it was compared with the control. Although the mean TBARS values showed an increasing trend, the values of carrot pulp treated shrikhand (0.497 mg manolaldehyde/kg) was significantly (p &amp;lt; 0.05) lower than control (0.582 mg manolaldehyde/kg) samples during the 9 days storage period. Further, the sensory evaluation results of shrikhand with carrot pulp exhibited significantly higher (p &amp;lt; 0.05) mean scores for color, appearance, and overall acceptability. The microbiological quality parameters of both products (control and treated) remained within permissible limits, when stored under refrigerated conditions for up to 9 days. In conclusion, shrikhand with 20% carrot pulp is recommended due to its ability to add value to the product by enhancing its functional properties and overall acceptability.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/abstract&gt;

The effects of improved water quality with zeolite addition and/or water magnetization on broiler performance, meat quality, and immunity

In this study, 120 male day-old Cobb broiler chickens from Kafrelsheikh, Egypt, were divided into four groups to assess the effects of different water treatments on their growth and health. The control group had access to conventional roof-top tank water, while the other groups received magnetic treated water, zeolite treated water, and a combination of both, with changes made every 72 hours based on manufacturer recommendations. This setup aimed to explore the potential benefits of magnetic and zeolite treatments on poultry development and welfare.The study investigates the impact of magnetic and zeolite-treated water on broiler chickens, showing significant physico-chemical and bacteriological changes. Magnetic water increased pH, Ca2+, and Na+ levels, while zeolite and combined treatments notably reduced hardness, ammonia, and turbidity. Magnetic water decreased total and fecal coliform counts, whereas zeolite water excelled in lowering ammonia levels but increased total bacterial counts. Zeolite treatment alone improved final weight and body weight gain in broilers without affecting feed intake or conversion. Carcass traits and meat quality were also influenced, with zeolite-treated groups showing better outcomes in carcass weight and gene expression related to nutrient absorption and growth, suggesting its potential to enhance broiler health and production efficiency.

Impacts of dietary supplementation of chitosan nanoparticles on growth, carcass traits nutrient digestibility, blood biochemistry, intestinal microbial load, and meat quality of broilers.

This study explores the impact of chitosan nanoparticles (CNP) on the performance, nutrient digestibility, blood biochemical, immunity, microbial load, carcass traits, and meat attributes of broilers. A total of 200 7-d-old Cobb chicks were distributed to 4 groups, each replicated 5 times, with 10 birds in each replicate. The experimental diets were as follows: First group was fed a basal diet only (control); 2nd, 3rd, and 4th groups received a basal diet supplemented with 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4g CNP/kg of feed, respectively. Results showed that the body weight (BW) and body weight gain significantly improved (P < 0.05) in the birds belonging to the 0.4 CNP group compared to the other groups. The best feed efficiency (feed conversion ratio [FCR]) was found in the group supplemented with a 0.4-g CNP/kg diet. The digestibility coefficients for dry matter and crude protein were significantly higher, and ether extract was significantly lower in the 0.4g CNP/kg group than in other groups (P < 0.05). Broiler birds of the 0.4 CNP group had significantly (P < 0.05) reduced serum cholesterol, AST, and ALT levels. The humoral immunity (increased serum IgG and IgM levels) tended to improve in birds fed 0.3 and 0.4g CNP/kg of feed. Compared to the control, total bacterial load and coliform count decreased significantly (P < 0.05) by supplementing 0.4g CNP in the diet. The dressing weight, breast weight, and abdominal fat % were altered in birds receiving dietary 0.4g CNP/kg. The treatment with CNP at 0.4g/kg feed enhanced the broiler meat quality by increasing the values for water holding capacity, ABTS [2, 2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)], DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) while reducing the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) value. Based on the results above, it could be concluded that CNP supplementation at 0.4g/kg is recommended as a beneficial feed additive for broiler chickens.

Antibiogram of Bacterial Isolated from Selected Borehole Water as Source of Drinking Water in Kakata, Margibi, Liberia.

Water is acquired from rain, bodies of water (rivers, ponds), and groundwater. Although water can include inappropriate chemicals (from natural sources and agricultural operations), the most serious threat to human wellness is fecal pollution of water supplies, which causes water-borne illnesses. Borehole water samples from seven places in Kakata, Margibi County, Liberia were analyzed for microbial load using standard microbiological procedures. The susceptibility of the microorganisms isolated to commercial antibiotics was also determined. The overall aerobic plate count ranged from 1.9×10 to 5.4×10² cfu/ml, whereas the total coliform count varied from 0.6×10 to 1.8×10 cfu/100ml. The fecal coliform count was low in most samples and entirely absent in one of the research locations. Microbial numbers significantly differed (p=0.05) among the regions investigated. The predominant bacteria isolated were Bacillus species, Enterococcus species, Citrobacter species, Salmonella species, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. The antibiogram performed using the disc diffusion technique revealed that Staphylococcus aureus was most susceptible to streptomycin and least sensitive to ciprofloxacin, while Enterococcus species was most sensitive to septrin but resistant to several of the antibiotics tested. Escherichia coli was the most sensitive to septrin and the least to ciprofloxacin. Ciprofloxacin inhibited Citrobacter species similarly to nalidixic acid. Salmonella species were very vulnerable to nalidixic acid and augmentin, however Bacillus species were resistant to all antibiotics tested, which raises public health concerns.