Assessment of Microbiological Contaminants Associated with Locally Processed Beverages in Reused Plastic Container

Abstract

The vending and consumption of locally processed beverage drinks (kunu, soya milk, tiger nut, etc.), that are packaged in reused plastic containers have become a mainstay in most developing countries. These drinks risk microbial contamination due to the scavenging of their plastic containment from thrash can and waste dumpsites. The assessment of microbial contaminants was carried out using standard procedures. Results showed the presence of heterotrophic bacteria counts of 4.71 and 5.41Log cfu/ml for kunu and soya milk beverages. The fungal count was 3.29 and 2.27Log cfu/ml respectively. The coliform counts were 2.18 and 2.27Log cfu/ml respectively. Incidentally, the level of microbial contamination of the beverage was above the regulatory limit. Based on the findings from the study, the study, therefore, conclude that the consumption of locally processed beverages in repackaged branded plastic containers is relatively unsafe.