Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Abstract

This paper presents an investigation of the microbiological quality of frozen chicken thighs sold in Mosul markets. Bacteriological analysis was performed on 60 samples (30 samples of local origin, and 30 imported ones) of frozen thighs kept in deep-freezers at -18C^o. Samples were then tested for total count of aerobic mesophilic bacteria (APC) and Staphylococcus aureus. With regards to microbiological quality and contamination of frozen chicken thighs, APC was found within the acceptable limits of satisfactory products.. Staphylococcus aureus were isolated in 16.66% from imported thighs versus 33.33% in local ones, with < 10² CFU/cm² in both thigh types. Antimicrobial sensitivity of 15 S. aureus isolates were surveyed for susceptibilities to a panel of 7 antimicrobial agents. They were 100% resistant to ampicillin; 33.34% to erythromycin and tetracycline; 26.67% to Trimethoprim+sulfamethoxazol; 20% to Doxycyclin; 13.34% to Enrofloxacin, and 100% susceptible to vancomycin. Results of this experiment suggest that both types of frozen chicken thighs were fit for human consumption.