Microbiological and biochemical spoilage of smoke-dried fishes sold in West African open markets.
Proximate composition and microbiological characteristics of pre-dried Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus and Pseudotolithus typus were studied over a period of 4weeks to determine the health risks associated with delayed consumption. All analyses were conducted using standard microbiological and chemical methods. Results showed a general decline in microbiological safety and nutritive characteristics of both fish species over time, with an observed increase in microbial loads over time. Aspergillus flavus was also present on both species which makes consumption of the fishes hazardous to the health of consumers due to its ability to produce carcinogenic aflatoxins. In order to minimise the health risks to consumers, it is recommended that smoke-dried fishes be consumed with minimal delay and cooked properly before consumption. The findings of this study will prove important in the development of more stringent regulations regarding food safety in Nigeria.
School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia. Electronic address: vui982@uowmail.edu.au.
Victoria
V
Ikutegbe
Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Francis
F
Sikoki
D000818:Animals; D001231:Aspergillus flavus / Q000302:isolation & purification; D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification; D005399:Fishes / Q000382:microbiology*; D005519:Food Preservation; D059022:Food Safety; D009549:Nigeria
Fish; Food safety; Microbial loads; Proximate composition; Shelf-life; Smoke-dried