Microbial Quality of Kumasi Abattoir Company Limited Meat at Retail Outlets at Kejetia Market, Ghana.

Abstract

Meat contamination during handling and transportation poses serious public health risks. This study assessed butchers' knowledge, meat handling practices, and microbial quality of meat before and after transportation from the Kumasi abattoir to the Kejetia market. A cross-sectional study involving 20 butchers was conducted, and meat samples were analyzed for microbial contamination using MacConkey Agar, Mannitol Salt Agar, and Salmonella-Shigella Agar. Approximately 85 % of butchers understood the importance of washing their hands before handling meat, while on 30 % were aware of and understood the need to follow guidelines for temperature control. Meanwhile, only 35 % were aware of the recommended temperature for storing meat. Meat handling practices were suboptimal, as 70 % of respondents used commercial taxis for transportation, and all (100 %) failed to maintain proper temperature control. Microbial analysis showed increased bacterial loads after transportation. Before transportation, bacterial counts on MacConkey Agar (MCA) for E. coli ranged from (log 2.69) to (log 5.46), while those on Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA) for staphylococcus spp. ranged from (log 4.18) to (log 5.49). The highest bacterial load was recorded in SSA at (log5.51, P<0.05). After transportation, MCA ranged from (log 3.53) to (log 5.97), while MSA ranged from (log 4.64) to (log 6.18). The highest count on SSA was (log 6.96). All media showed statistically significant increases in microbial counts after transportation (P<0.05). SSA exhibited the most significant mean log difference (+1.55). For MCA, the mean log difference was (0.84). MSA demonstrated a more minor but significant increase, suggesting moderate to high levels growth of Staphylococcus Spp. Improper handling and transportation of meat contributed to microbial contamination. Targeted interventions, including training programs and enhanced transportation methods, are necessary to mitigate contamination risks and safeguard public health.