MICROBIAL SAFETY OF COMMERCIAL AND LOCAL POULTRY FEEDS

ABSTRACT This research ascertained the fungi safety of commercial and local poultry feeds. The objectives are to isolate fungal contaminants in locally produced poultry feeds, to isolate fungal contaminants in commercial produced poultry feeds and to compare the contaminants in both locally and commercially produced poultry feed. A total of ten (10) samples of poultry feeds were collected from Sovet International and Local markets in Tarauni, Kano State, Nigeria. The samples were transported to the Microbiology Laboratory of School of Technology for analyses. The results of the study shows that most of the fungi isolated from this study are potentially toxigenic, making it necessary to establish quality control measures that will be adhered to during formulation, packaging, transport, storage and use. There is need to store feeds properly to avoid moisture uptake and damage by heat. Feeds should be stored suitably where it cannot be attacked by microorganisms, insects and rodents. Good manufacturing practice, handling and retailing methods should be improved to enhance the microbial quality of these products. It is highly recommended that government and public health organizations should raise awareness on poultry diseases that could be contracted from the consumption of contaminated feeds.