Assessment of Microbial Contamination and Hygiene Practices of Okra Powders in Public Markets of Yamoussoukro

Kouakou Levi Moïse Koffi

UFR Agroforestery, Jean Lorougnon Guédé University, BP 150 Daloa, Ivory Coast.

Say Jean Baptiste Anouhe

UFR Biological Sciences, Peleforo Gon Coulibaly University, Korhogo, Ivory Coast.

Kan Benjamin Kouame *

UFR Agroforestery, Jean Lorougnon Guédé University, BP 150 Daloa, Ivory Coast.

Nonhondé Horline Degrace Zioh

UFR Agroforestery, Jean Lorougnon Guédé University, BP 150 Daloa, Ivory Coast.

Soune Carole Zouzou

UFR Agroforestery, Jean Lorougnon Guédé University, BP 150 Daloa, Ivory Coast.

Bi Koffi Albert Gnangouli

UFR Agroforestery, Jean Lorougnon Guédé University, BP 150 Daloa, Ivory Coast.

Koffi Messou Jean-Armel Kouadio

UFR Agroforestery, Jean Lorougnon Guédé University, BP 150 Daloa, Ivory Coast.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

Background: Okra is one of the most consumed fruit vegetables by Ivorians either fresh or powdered. However, due to a lack of supervision, okra powders are sold under conditions that often leave something to be desired.

Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of microbial contamination of okra powders sold in public markets, with a view to preventing any potential health risks for consumers.

Methodology: The experimental method is based on a survey within the markets of the city of Yamoussoukro in order to describe the conditions of sale. Samples of okra powders sold in these markets were analyzed.

Acquired Results: The survey showed that, most marketers sell their product beyond 10 days. Additionally, okra powders are sold in plastic containers, uncovered. In addition, the analyzes reveal the absence of Salmonella spp. but the presence of yeasts, molds, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli whose loads varying from 3.5. 103a ± 0.16.103 to 4.8.103a ± 0.49.103 CFU/g, 1.5.104b ± 0.28.104 to 3.2.103a ± 0.32.103 CFU/g and 3.3.103a ± 0.17.103 to 8.103a ± 0.91.103 CFU/g. However, all the okra powders analyzed present an unsatisfactory microbiological quality.

Conclusion and Outlook: To avoid any health risk for consumers, traders must be supervised, organized and made aware of good hygiene practices.

Keywords: Sanitary quality, hygiene, okra powder


How to Cite

Koffi, Kouakou Levi Moïse, Say Jean Baptiste Anouhe, Kan Benjamin Kouame, Nonhondé Horline Degrace Zioh, Soune Carole Zouzou, Bi Koffi Albert Gnangouli, and Koffi Messou Jean-Armel Kouadio. 2024. “Assessment of Microbial Contamination and Hygiene Practices of Okra Powders in Public Markets of Yamoussoukro”. Biotechnology Journal International 28 (5):34-40. https://doi.org/10.9734/bji/2024/v28i5739.