DETECTION OF BACTERIAL CONTAMINANTS IN READY-TO-DRINK BEVERAGE (ZOBO) SOLD IN GADAU MARKET
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study aimed to detect and identify bacterial contaminants in ready-to-drink zobo beverages sold in Gadau Market, Bauchi State, Nigeria. Ten zobo samples were randomly collected and analyzed for total bacterial load, total coliform count, and specific bacterial isolates using standard microbiological methods. The total bacterial load ranged from 0.1×102 to 6.0×102 CFU/mL, with 40% of samples exceeding the WHO permissible limit of 1.0×102 CFU/mL. The Most Probable Number (MPN) method revealed coliform counts ranging from 0 to 8 MPN/100 mL, with 80% of samples contaminated above acceptable limits. Bacterial isolates identified included Escherichia coli (50%), Klebsiella spp. (40%), Staphylococcus aureus (40%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (30%). The presence of these pathogens, particularly E. coli, indicates significant fecal contamination and poses serious public health risks. The study underscores the need for improved hygiene practices, regular monitoring, and treatment of zobo before consumption to ensure safety.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.