MICROBIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF REFILL CANS OF BEVERAGES UTILIZED AMONG STUDENTS OF FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ABEOKUTA

The widespread consumption of refill beverage cans among students has raised growing concerns about potential microbial contamination resulting from handling, storage, and dispensing practices. This study examined the microbiological quality of refill cans of beverages utilized among students of the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta. A cross-sectional laboratory analysis was conducted on randomly selected beverage refill cans obtained from student vendors and on-campus kiosks. Samples were subjected to standard microbiological procedures, including serial dilution, culture on selective media, colony enumeration, and biochemical characterization of isolates. Results revealed varying degrees of microbial load across sampled cans, with total viable counts exceeding acceptable limits in a substantial proportion of samples. Predominant organisms isolated included Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and fungal species such as Aspergillus spp., indicating possible lapses in hygiene during refilling, handling, and container reuse. The presence of enteric bacteria suggested faecal contamination and poor environmental sanitation. The study concludes that refill beverage cans consumed by students pose potential public-health risks due to microbial contamination. It recommends stricter hygiene practices during refilling, improved sanitation of dispensing units, public awareness on safe beverage handling, and routine quality monitoring by relevant health authorities. Ensuring safer consumption practices within the campus environment is essential for preventing beverage-related microbial infections