Microbiological Quality of Typical Traditional Fermented Milk from Northern Uganda and Western Kenya

In this study, the microbiological quality of traditionally fermented milk from Northern Uganda and Western Kenya was analysed. Six samples of typical traditionally fermented milk were collected randomly from traditional cattle keepers in Karamojong (UG 1) and Acholi (UG 2) in Northern Uganda and Kalenjin in Western Kenya (KE). The microbial quality of the collected samples was assessed through the use of conventional methods for total aerobic mesophilic bacteria, total coliform, lactic acid bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, yeasts, and mould counts. The mean aerobic mesophilic bacterial counts were 5.14 × 109 coliform forming units (cfu)/mL. The mean counts for mesophilic lactobacilli ranged from 106 to 108 cfu/mL. The mean thermophilic lactobacilli count ranged from 107 to 109 cfu/mL, while the mean thermophilic lactococci counts ranged from 106 to 109 cfu/mL. On the other hand, the Streptococci counts were between 106 and 108 cfu/mL. The mean count for the non-sorbitol E. coli was 3.87 × 103 cfu/mL. These results suggest that although the pH of the traditional yoghurt in this study was low, the acidity was not sufficient to inhibit growth of microorganisms in the product. Although it is difficult to avoid the microbial contamination of milk during milking, it is of the utmost importance to maintain a very high level of hygiene in dairy farming practices, and the correct cleaning of teats during milking is very important for good udder health and optimum milk quality, and to ensure safety. The results regarding microbial contamination pose public health concerns, and therefore the appropriate government agencies must pay attention to ensure that the environment in which yoghurt is produced is in the best condition to reduce contamination.