Bacteriological studies on Iraqi milk products
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1Department of Biology, College of Science, Mosul University, Iraq.
Abstract:
Samples from different types of domestic milk products including cheese, kishfa and gaymer were assessed for bacteriological quality over a 4-month period. A total of 400 samples were randomly selected across Mosul city and tested for faecal coliform counts, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC). Faecal coliforms were present at levels greater than 10(2) cfu/g in 72.5% and less than 10(2) cfu/g in 27.5% of samples. Of the 430 E. coli strains isolated from the 400 samples of milk products, 138 were serotypes of EPEC. These were found in 81 (40.5%) samples of cheese, 35 (23.8%) of kishfa and 22 (29.7%) of gaymer. During this period, 26 strains of ETEC were also isolated, all of which demonstrated heat-labile or heat-stable toxins. The high proportion of strains of three groups of E. coli showing resistance to antibiotics is discussed in relation to widespread use of antibiotics and the possible public health implication.
Insights
Domestic milk products in Mosul city showed high levels of fecal coliforms and concerning presence of pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli). Many E. coli strains exhibited antibiotic resistance, posing potential public health risks.
Area of Science:
- Food Microbiology
- Public Health
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Domestic milk products are a significant part of the diet.
- Assessing the bacteriological quality of these products is crucial for public health.
- Previous studies have indicated potential contamination in dairy products.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the bacteriological quality of domestic milk products in Mosul city.
- To determine the prevalence of fecal coliforms, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC), and enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC).
- To assess the antibiotic resistance patterns of isolated E. coli strains.
Main Methods:
- A 4-month study involving 400 randomly selected samples of cheese, kishfa, and gaymer.
- Testing for fecal coliform counts.
- Isolation and identification of E. coli strains, including EPEC and ETEC serotyping and toxin analysis.
Main Results:
- 72.5% of samples exceeded the 10(2) cfu/g threshold for fecal coliforms.
- 138 EPEC strains were identified across 40.5% of cheese, 23.8% of kishfa, and 29.7% of gaymer samples.
- 26 ETEC strains producing heat-labile or heat-stable toxins were isolated, with a high proportion of E. coli strains showing antibiotic resistance.
Conclusions:
- Domestic milk products in Mosul city are frequently contaminated with fecal coliforms and pathogenic E. coli.
- The prevalence of antibiotic-resistant E. coli strains raises significant public health concerns.
- Widespread antibiotic use may contribute to the observed resistance patterns, necessitating further investigation and control measures.