Proximate Composition and Microbiological Quality of “Kunu-Aya”: A Locally Produced Non-Fermented Beverage in Nigeria

Kunu-aya” is non- fermented beverage locally produced from Cyperus esculentus (Tiger nut) and Phoenix dactylifera (Dates) based milk. This study determined the proximate composition and microbial quality of laboratory produced “Kunu-aya” following standard methods. Biochemical characterization method was carried out for identification of associated isolates.  The results revealed that the “Kunu-aya” contains; moisture content was 59.44±0.05, Ash content of 5.02±0.07, crude fat 8.108±0.03, Crude fibre 9.16±0.04, crude protein 8.983±0.26, and carbohydrate 9.3±0.05 and the energy content was 182.69kcal. “Kunu-aya” also contains significant amounts of magnesium (Mg) 2.045±0.05, potassium (K) 40.506±0.05, phosphorus (P) 4.506±0.03, copper (Cu) 0.018±0.04, zinc (Zn) 48.001±0.01, iron (Fe) 0.408±0.04, sodium (Na) of 6.031±0.07 and calcium (Ca) 0.196±0.03. The total viable bacteria count of the sample was 4.0 x 104 CFU/ml and the total fungal count was 2.7x 102 CFU/ml. Species of  Staphylococcus spp (50%), Bacilli spp. (16.7%) Streptococcus spp. (16.7%) and Micrococcus spp. (16.7%) are predominant bacteria contaminants of the beverage. Besides, fungi species of Aspergillus spp. (60%), Penicillium spp. (20%) and Rhizopus spp. (20%) were also isolated. The microbial load obtained exceeded the acceptable limit stipulated for dairy drinks. Based on the proximate and mineral contents of “Kunu-aya”, its rich essential contents can provide nutrients for human nutrition. Therefore, the production of this beverage under strict hygiene conditions will improve the microbiological quality and reduce the health risk associated with its consumption.