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Journal : Open Access DRIVERset

Hygienic Status and Microbial Profile of Locally Produced Fermented Milk in Wukari North-East, Nigeria Mohammed, Ikrimah Usman; Brown, Samuel Tamunoiyowuna Cockeye; Onyemaechi, Emmanuel
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstm.v2i2.5386

Abstract

Background: Milk and its derivatives are widely consumed for their nutritional benefits; however, their improper handling and processing can lead to contamination with pathogenic microorganisms, posing significant public health risks. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the microbial quality of locally fermented milk products, sold in Wukari, North-East, Nigeria. Methods: A total of fifteen (15) fermented milk samples were collected from five different retail locations and analyzed for microbial contamination using standard microbiological techniques. Results: The results revealed high levels of bacterial contamination across all sampling sites, with total viable counts ranging from 0.3 × 10⁶ to 2.4 × 10⁶ CFU/mL. Coliform bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, were detected, indicating fecal contamination and poor sanitary conditions during processing and distribution. Staphylococcus aureus, a major foodborne pathogen, was identified in 27.1% of the total bacterial isolates, highlighting a potential risk of food poisoning. Other bacterial isolates included Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter spp., and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the unhygienic handling of fermented milk contributes to its microbial contamination, making it unfit for human consumption. This study emphasizes the need for improved hygiene practices, proper pasteurization, and strict regulatory measures to ensure the safety of locally produced dairy products. Public awareness campaigns should be conducted to educate dairy vendors and consumers about the health risks associated with contaminated milk.
Combined Effects of Bacteriocin-Like Inhibitory Substances from Vaginal Lactobacillus Isolated from Clinical Sample on Group B Streptococcus Brown, Samuel Tamunoiyowuna Cockeye; Mohammed, Usman Ikrimah; Onyemaechi, Eze Emmanuel; Daniel, Benjamin Nanisi
African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Vol 2 No 2 (2025): African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajstm.v2i2.6963

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) and the potential inhibitory effects of bacteriocin-like substances produced by Lactobacillus species in pregnant women in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. Lactobacillus species, known as non-pathogenic Gram-positive rods, are commonly found in the vaginal microbiota of healthy premenopausal women, where they play a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health through their antimicrobial properties. The study aimed to determine the incidence of GBS colonization and explore the antimicrobial activity of crude and partially purified bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances from Lactobacillus isolates against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. A total of 50 vaginal swab samples were collected from pregnant women. The results revealed that 11 women (22%) were colonized by Group B Streptococcus, while 14 women (28%) tested positive for Lactobacillus presence. The bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances produced by the Lactobacillus isolates demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against GBS, with optimal inhibitory effects observed at 30°C and pH 5.5. Furthermore, antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, chloramphenicol, and streptomycin were effective against GBS isolates. The findings underscore the potential role of Lactobacillus-derived bacteriocins as natural antimicrobial agents in the prevention and control of GBS infections, particularly in pregnant women. This study also reinforces the importance of monitoring GBS colonization due to its implications for maternal and neonatal health.