MICROBIAL EVALUATION OF READY TO EAT GROUNDNUT

ABSTRACT

Ready-to-eat groundnut products have gained popularity as convenient and nutritious snacks. However, ensuring their safety for consumption is essential. This study aimed to assess the microbial quality of ready-to-eat groundnut products available in the market. A total of 20 groundnut samples from different markets and packaging types were analyzed for microbial contamination. An aliquot (1ml) of the fourth dilution of groundnut samples was plated on nutrient agar, potato dextrose agar by pour plate method. The mean heterotrophic bacterial count ranged from 1.01× 106 to 3× 106 . The results revealed that the samples harbored seven bacterial species belonging to seven genera which included; S. epidermis, S. aureus, Enterococcus, Bacillus, Micrococcus, Pseudomonas, Streptococcus and five fungi genera which included C. tropicalis, Cryptococcus, C. albicans, P. chrysogenum and Aspergillus. The isolation of these microbial species, most of which are associated with various disease cause, indicate high level of microbial contamination during the production, storage and handling of these products. The occurrence of these contaminant organism from the groundnut samples at a very high load I of public health importance. This is associated with compromise in safety and quality of this groundnut samples and can cause health hazards to consumers. There is need to enlighten the producers or handlers on the principles of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and the consumers of these products on the need to be concerned about its microbiological quality so as to avoid health risks that may be associated with the consumption of contaminated readyto-eat groundnuts. The groundnut products to be consumed and available in the markets should be shelf stable, portable, and accessible making them ideal for consumption in various settings such as work, school or while travelling. Groundnut offers a healthy sustainable snack alternative, contributing to a healthier lifestyle for consumers. To empower consumers with accurate information about the health benefits of groundnuts, the project emphasizes nutritional labelling and clear health claims on its products.