Assessment of Microbial Quality and Hygienic Status of Milk, Dairy Products and Dairy-Contact Surfaces in Srinagar, Kashmir

Abstract:

Milk and dairy products are highly susceptible to microbial contamination and may serve as potential vehicles for transmission of foodborne pathogens. The present study was undertaken to assess the microbial quality and hygienic status of milk, dairy products, and dairy-contact surfaces marketed in Srinagar, Kashmir. A total of 210 samples comprising raw milk, pooled milk, pasteurized milk, paneer, ice cream, milking can swabs, and milking pail swabs (n = 30 each) were analyzed for total viable count (TVC), coliform count (CC), and occurrence of coliform bacteria using standard microbiological methods. Significant differences (P< 0.05) in TVC and CC were observed among the various sample categories. Paneer recorded the highest mean TVC (4.939±0.039 log10 colony-forming units (CFU) g⁻¹), whereas raw milk exhibited the highest mean CC (4.447±0.105 log10 CFU mL⁻¹). Comparison with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) criteria revealed that several sample categories exceeded the prescribed microbiological limits. Overall, 24.18% of the samples were positive for coliform bacteria. Presumptive characterization of coliform isolates revealed the occurrence of Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., and Citrobacter spp., with E. coli (fecal coliform) constituting the predominant coliform isolate. The findings indicate deficiencies in hygienic handling, sanitation, and storage practices within the dairy production chain and underscore the need for implementation of effective hygiene management practices and routine microbiological surveillance to ensure food safety and protect the public health.