ISOLATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF MYCOFLORA OF “PONMO” (CATTLE HIDE)

ABSTRACT The mycoflora of processed cattle hides ("ponmo") were investigated during two days storage. Five fungi, namely Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus, niger, Aspergillus vesicolor, Aspergillus nidulans and Rhizopus species were isolated during storage using direct plating method. The growth and occurrence of these fungi in the cattle hides could be attributed primarily to the animal rearing / environmental factors(soil, pasture, water sources, medication, etc) prevailing in the habitat. These groups of fungi are also called storage molds because they are fungi which invade "ponmo" during storage and are usually not present to any serious extent before processing but under improper storage conditions, this small amount of inoculum can increase rapidly leading to significant problems. In this study, Aspergillus species was the most predominant contaminant isolated. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the microbial investigation by veterinarians and food analysts to minimize the threats posed to public health. Also, good sanitary practices must be followed and microbiological standards must be adhered to by checking production procedures and handling until it reaches the consumer's table.