The Public Health Significance Of Pathogens Isolated From \"Kunun-Zaki\", Sold In Retail Outlets In Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assesses the presence and antimicrobial sensitivity of some pathogens and the enterotoxigenicity of Bacillus cereus isolated from Kunun-zaki. Counts of B. cereus and S. aureus, the isolation of Escherichia coli, Salmonella and Shigella and the antimicrobial sensitivity of the pathogens were carried out using standard procedures. The processing of kunun-zaki by one producer was studied to note the possible points of contamination. The ability of B. cereus to produce toxin was tested using ileal loop technique. Out of 240 samples of kunun-zaki purchased from retail outlets, 105 had B. cereus counts of less than 10⁴ cells ml^-1. S. aureus counts ranged from 68 to 7.2×10² cells ml^-1. All the samples were contaminated with B. cereus, 221(92.1%) had E. coli and 216(90.0%) had S. aureus. Salmonella and Shigella were not present in any of the products. The pathogenic bacteria isolated were alpha and beta haemolytic S. aureus, faecal strains of E. coli and enterotoxin producing B. cereus. The pathogens were highly sensitive to Floxacin, Gentamycin and Tetracycline. These agents are however, not in common use for the treatment of infections caused by the pathogens isolated. The high frequency of contamination and antimicrobial resistant patterns observed, calls for hygienic handling and control processing of kunun-zaki, to reduce hazards to health.

Key words: Pathogens, Kunun-zaki, Retail outlets

Nigerian Food Journal Vol.22 2004: 10-17