Isolation and antibiotic susceptibility analysis of retailed powdered milk from Orie Uga Market in Aguata, Anambra State, Nigeria

The research entailed the isolation and antibiotic susceptibility analysis of retailed powdered milk from Orie Uga market in Aguata Anambra State. The increasing rate of morbidity and mortality from diarrhoea among the populace motivated the research. Samples of powdered milk were aseptically collected from six (6) different sellers in the market and analyzed using standard microbiological procedures. The pH of the samples were measured using a pH meter while their temperature were checked using a thermometer; serial dilution and growth on nutrient agar followed by Gram stain alongside biochemical tests were carried out; total viable counts were performed on all the samples which indicated that sample A harboured the lowest number of microbial count of 4.5.0x108cfu/g leaving sample C with the high number of counts- 7.5x108cfu/g precisely; susceptibility tests were done on all the samples with the use of three (3) antibiotics namely Ampicillin, Co-trimoxazole and Tetracycline. The results of the study indicated that the average pH of the samples was acidic while the average temperature was found to be normal. The isolated bacteria were majorly Staphylococcus species. The susceptibility tests revealed that the isolates were resistant to Ampicillin but sensitive to Co-trimoxazole and Tetracycline which then demands that the preferred drugs for treating any health complication resulting from the consumption of the sampled products were co-trimoxazole and tetracycline. This study is meant to enlighten all stakeholders in food security/consumption and health management.