ISOLATION OF BACTERIOLOGY QUALITY OF FROZEN CHICKEN AND FROZEN FISH FROM MARKET IN BENIN CITY

ABSTRACT

The bacteriological quality of frozen chicken and frozen fish from markets in Benin City was studied. A total of 60 samples (30 frozen chicken and 30 frozen fish) were collected from three different markets in the city. The samples were analyzed for the presence of bacterial pathogens using standard microbiological methods. The results showed that all the samples were contaminated with bacteria. The total bacterial counts ranged from to 4.3 x 10^4CFU/g for frozen chicken and 4.8x 10^4 to 8.8x 10^4CFU/g for frozen fish. The bacterial isolates were identified as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results of this study suggest that the bacteriological quality of frozen chicken and frozen fish from markets in Benin City is poor and poses a potential health risk to consumers. Therefore, there is a need for proper handling, storage, and transportation of frozen meat and fish to prevent contamination and ensure food safety.