Evaluation of Microbial Quality of Fishes and Sanitary Condition of Wholesale and Retail Fish Markets in Peri-urban Area of Kolkata, India

Abstract

The present study conducted during  October, 2019 to January, 2020 was aimed to assess the microbial quality of selected fish species viz., Labeo rohita, Lates calcarifer and Johnius belangeri and check the sanitary condition of two selected fish markets i.e., Baghajatin wholesale fish market and Garia retail fish market in Kolkata, India. The results of TPC of fish muscle never crossed the limit of 4.70 log cfu g^-1 as specified by ICMSF. Total plate count (TPC) of fish muscle were well within the limit of acceptability suggesting to be fit for consumption. The Total plate count value of water, ice, and swab samples were found higher in the month of October and lower in the month of January. The high values of TPC were recorded in water, ice and swab samples suggesting poor sanitation, improper handling and use of contaminated water in ice production. All the three species collected from two different selected fish markets were detected to contain the pathogenic microorganisms like Salmonella sp., Clostridium sp., Listeria sp. and Staphylococcus aureus. The results also indicated the presence of faecal coliform in water, ice and swab samples. It is recommended that potable water must be used for manufacturing of ice and handling should be done under good hygiene and sanitary conditions.