Evaluation of microbial content of some soybean milk products consumed in Nigeria

Abstract

Evaluating the microbiological content of soybean milk, highly consumed by the public is the aim of this research work. Ten samples of soybean milk, locally prepared by different manufacturers were used for the study. The microbial load and identity of the microorganisms present were determined using standard techniques. The microbial population detected in terms of number and types organisms reflected poor hygienic standard of production, constituting a public health hazard among the populace. The products were found to contain pathogenic microorganisms like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli. Some fungi (Candida species) were also found in few of the soybean products. The implication of this study is that the quality of some commercial soybean milk preparations marketed in Nigeria needs to be critically scrutinized to avoid transmission of infections to patients through them. Also it is very necessary that producers should be enlightened about Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) as this will ensure products free of pathogenic microorganisms.