Microbial Hazards of Raw Milk Marketed in Khulna City

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the main microbiological parameters of raw milk (total bacterial count, coliform bacteria of faecal and non-faecal origin, Salmonella sp.). Raw milk was assessed from eight (08) selected areas in Khulna city. In all of the samples, total bacterial count was beyond acceptable range. Fifty-five percent (22 of 40) of the samples were found to be contaminated with faecal coliform (E. coli) while non-faecal coliform bacteria (Enterobacter) were detected in 45% (18 of 40) of raw milk samples. Salmonella sp. was found in only one milk sample (0.25%, 1 of 40). Results of this study suggest that raw milk marketed in Khulna City without pasteurization might be hazardous for the consumers.