MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF TIGERNUT SOLD IN ABAKALIKI, EBONYI STATE
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Abstract
Background of study: This study evaluated the microbiological quality of tiger nuts sold at five locations in Abakaliki: Presco Campus Gate, Ahia Ofu, Ishieke Market, Ogbehausa, and the International Market.
Methodology: A total of 25 tiger nut samples were collected from vendors at each of the different locations, and analyzed for microbial presence and load and pathogens.
Results: The results revealed significant contamination, indicating poor microbiological quality. Pathogens isolated included Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Enterococcus spp., and Escherichia coli. These pathogens pose a risk of foodborne illnesses. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed varying resistance levels among pathogens. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was most susceptible to Gentamicin (68%) and highly resistant to Amoxicillin (18%). Bacillus spp. showed the highest susceptibility to Clindamycin (76%) and resistance to Levofloxacin and Ceftriaxone (9%). K. pneumoniae was most susceptible to Azithromycin (66%) and resistant to Clindamycin (13%). S. typhi had high susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin (74%) and resistance to Linezolid (26%). S. aureus was highly resistant to Meropenem (3%) but sensitive to Vancomycin (80%). Enterococcus and E. coli showed susceptibility to Amoxicillin and Gentamicin but significant resistance to other antibiotics.
Conclusion: The presence of these pathogens in the tigernuts highlights the need for proper hygienic practices during cultivation, processing, and handling. Strict food safety measures and awareness campaigns are highly essential to minimize risks and ensure consumer safety. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring to improve the microbiological quality of tiger nuts in Abakaliki.
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