Risk of bacterial infection from selected fermented milk products in Abakaliki Metropolis

Abstract

Background: This study was aimed at evaluating the risk of bacterial infection from fermented fura de nunu milk product consumed in Abakaliki metropolis.

Method:Twenty five (25) samples of nunu and fura de nunu each were purchased from different vendors at Hausa Quarters' Market in Abakaliki metropolis. Bacteria were isolated using differential and selective media and identified using standard biochemical tests. Molecular identification was performed by amplification of 16S rDNA. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method.

Result: A total of 90 bacterial isolates from fura de nunu (56) and nunu (34) samples were isolated. The total bacteria count and mean bacteria colony forming units were significantly higher (P≤0.05) in fura de nunu (57±26.5), (11.4±5.3) than in nunu (24±14.1), (4.8±2.8) respectively. All the bacteria isolates were resistant to cefotaxime, meropenem, amoxycilin–clavulanic acid and susceptible to imipenem and gentamicin. Eighty five (94%) of the bacteria isolates were resistant to ceftriazone while (6%) showed intermediate zone of inhibition. About 58% of the bacteria isolates were resistant to sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprime, while 42% of the isolates showed susceptibility with multidrug resistance observed in over 90% of the isolates. Out of 58 isolates used, 64% and 26% exhibited hemolytic and hemmagutination properties.

Conclusion: It is evident that fura de nunu may be a source of different bacterial infections capable of causing food-borne illnesses, food intoxication and gastroenteritis.