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Published on: September 10, 2016
Microbiological quality of milk from small processing units in Senegal
Sebastien Breurec1, Rodrigue Poueme, Cheikh Fall
1Unit of Medical Biology and Environment, Institut Pasteur, Dakar, Senegal. sbreurec@pasteur.sn
Foodborne Pathogens and Disease
|February 10, 2010
Summary
Senegalese milk quality is poor, with most raw and pasteurized samples failing standards due to pathogens like Coxiella burnetii and enterotoxigenic staphylococci. This highlights critical needs for improved hygiene and monitoring in small dairy processing units.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Milk consumption and local dairy production are rising in Senegal.
- Small processing units dominate local milk production, raising quality concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the microbiological quality and safety of milk from smallholder dairy farms in Senegal.
- To screen for specific pathogens including Mycobacterium bovis, Coxiella burnetii, and Brucella abortus.
Main Methods:
- Collected 85 bulk-tank milk samples from 68 smallholder farms.
- Analyzed microbiological quality against official standards.
- Screened for Mycobacterium bovis, Coxiella burnetii, and anti-Brucella abortus antibodies.
Main Results:
- 93% of pasteurized, 92% of raw, and 81% of sour milk samples failed to meet standards.
- Detected Coxiella burnetii (15%), coagulase-positive staphylococci (26%), and Salmonella Johannesburg.
- Enterotoxigenic staphylococci were found in 90% of relevant samples.
Conclusions:
- Milk produced by small units in Senegal exhibits poor microbiological quality, including pasteurized milk.
- There is an urgent need for enhanced hygiene practices, especially post-pasteurization.
- Effective monitoring throughout the milk production and delivery chain is essential.
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