Microbiological quality of an edible caterpillar of an emperor moth, Bunaea alcinoe

Braide, W. and Oranusi, S. U. and Udegbunam, L. I and Oguoma, O .I. and Akobondu, C. and Nwaoguikpe, R. N. (2011) Microbiological quality of an edible caterpillar of an emperor moth, Bunaea alcinoe. Journal of Ecology and the Natural Environment, 3 (5). 176 -180. ISSN 2006- 9847

PDF Download (63kB)

Abstract

An investigation into the microbiological status of processed caterpillar of a lepidopteran, Bunaea alcinoe revealed the presence of six genera of bacteria and three genera of moulds including one species of yeast. The microbial population of 4.49 × 107 (bacteria) and 9.5 × 106 (fungi) indicates contamination of the product. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis are food contaminants with high protein contents. P. aeruginosa produce protease and lipase that catalysis reaction causing degradation of proteins and lipids respectively, resulting in an undesirable flavours in food products. P. mirabilis rarely give rise to food borne infections, but lowers the nutritional quality of contaminated foods. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli produce various toxins associated with food infection and intoxication. Streptococcus mitis is involved in dental caries and periodontal disease when ingested in food. Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium species elaborate lethal mycotoxins associated with carcinogenicity and nephrotoxicity in humans and animals. Majority of the isolates are soil borne and may have contaminated the product during harvest. Recontamination of the product could arise from poor handling, inadequate temperature of processing and exposure during sun drying. The use of modified atmospheric packaging system is strongly recommended to reduce moisture, microbial contamination and enhanced the shelf life of the nutritious product.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Edible, caterpillar, microbiological quality
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General) Q Science > QH Natural history > QH301 Biology
Divisions:	Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences > School of Biological Sciences
Depositing User:	Mrs Hannah Akinwumi
Date Deposited:	17 Mar 2015 15:07
Last Modified:	17 Mar 2015 15:07
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/4009

Actions (login required)

View Item