Microbiological Quality Analysis and Shelf Life Evaluation of Dahi Available in Kashmir

Four commercially produced dahi samples were stored under 0°C, 10 °C and 20 °C temperatures subjected to microbiological examination, pH, titrable acidity and sensory attributes at various temperatures for a period of seven days. The results indicated an increase in microbial activity parameters and titrable acidity with increase in temperature and storage period. pH of dahi samples decreased with an increase in temperature and storage period indicating increase in acidity. The studies for microbiological studies shows increase in TPC along with the increase in days of storage. Similar case was found in Yeast and mould as well as in Coliform count. The TPC at refrigerated storage was observed as (1.69±0.58)106 to (5.0±0.68)106 while as at 20°C temperature it was observed as (1.5±0.35)106 to (4.5±0.12)10. Similarly the Yeast and mould count at refrigerated storage was observed as (1.0±0.92)106 while as at 20 °C temperature it was observed as ( 1.5±0.36)106 .The different samples of dahi were analysed for various sensorial attributes for their acceptance by using 9 point hedonic scale. The scores obtained with respect to colour, flavour, taste and aroma show good results and overall acceptability. Overall acceptability was also found to decrease significantly (p <.05) with increase in days of storage under refrigerated conditions. The results of the storage studies indicated the significant (p < .05) decrease in pH with the days of storage under different temperature conditions.