Abstract
Abattoir plays a major role in the processing of meat consumed by the public and its involvement in public health safety cannot be overemphasized. This study was conducted to assess the bacterial load on beef carcasses and the hygiene status of the slaughterhouse environment and facilities at the ultramodern abattoir in Akerebiata, Ilorin, Nigeria. Assessment of microbial load was carried out using Standard Plate Count (SPC) and Total Coliform Count (TCC) on environmental swabs and meat contact surfaces (n = 231), water (n = 16) and red meat (n = 14). Significant differences and association between samples were determined using Tukey's Multiple Comparison Test and Carl Pearson Correlation Matrix, respectively, on GraphPad Prism with p < 0.05 considered as significant. Generally, the SPC and TCC for all samples exceeded the acceptable limits for meat and potable water set by WHO, CDC, and EU regulations. The floor had the highest mean count for SPC (8.66 ± 8.24 log cfu/cm2) and TCC (6.02 ± 5.85 log cfu/cm2). Water sourced from the borehole had no significant count for coliform as opposed to the water from the well (4.43 ± 4.32 log cfu/ml). There was a significant association between the contamination levels of butchers’ hands and processed meat (p < 0.05). There is high level of bacterial contamination as indicated by the findings of this present study. This study further reiterates the public health importance of good management and hygiene practices in the meat processing chain for quality and consumer safety.
Publisher
Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umdike (MOUAU)
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