Bacterial assessment of smoke-dried fishes sold at three landing market sites in Anambra State, Nigeria

The study focused on the bacteriological profile of four different smoke-dried fishes Clarias gariepinus (CG), Oreochromis niloticus (ON), Malapterurus electricus (ME), and Citharinus citharus (CC) sold at three landing market sites (Otuocha, Ose, Ogbakuba) in Anambra State, Nigeria. Bacteria isolates from fish samples were examined identified using microscopic, morphological, biochemical characteristics. results revealed presence Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica Shigella flexneri all markets. highest number bacteria (1471 cfu/g), was found Ose followed by Ogbakuba (1353 while lowest Otuocha (957 cfu/g). Some isolated bacteria, aureus sp are known to cause food borne diseases public health concern. Therefore, regular disinfection cleaning as well inspection officers advocated improve hygiene However, it is recommended that consumers should cautiously subject additional processing such adequate cooking order eliminate these avoid poisoning.