Bacteriological screening of environmental sources of contamination in an abattoir and the meat shops in Mumbai, India.

Abstract

Bacteriological screening of environmental sources of contamination was carried out in Deonar abattoir and traditional meat shops in Mumbai. A total of 54 swab samples from different environmental contaminants were collected and analyzed from the abattoir, while 81 swab samples were analyzed from three meat shops. These samples were processed for total viable count (TVC) and differential counts. The average TVC for all environmental contamination points in the abattoir was 5.80 ± 0.17, whereas in the shops it was 6.05 ± 0.25 log CFU/sq.cm indicating higher microbial load in traditional meat shops. In the abattoir, the maximum numbers of isolates were found on the floor and minimum numbers in water. S. epidermidis, S. aureus, Micrococcus spp. and faecal coliforms were found to be the predominant organisms. In the shops, the maximum numbers of isolates were found on floors and minimum numbers on plastic bags. Micrococcus spp., faecal coliforms and S. epidermidis dominated the differential flora. The prevalence of Salmonella spp. was 1.85% in the abattoir, while in the retail meat shops the prevalence was as high as 14.8%. In addition, wooden logs used in the shops also showed substantial contamination. The bacteria isolated from these sources were of public health importance and thus, these points need proper cleaning and sanitization to avoid cross contamination of the meat. A thorough clean up procedure not only prevents contamination but also creates a clean environment and encourages cleanliness amongst workers. The results