Distribution of Bacterial Isolates from Contact Surfaces of Meat Handlers in Abattoirs of Southeastern, Nigeria

Abstract

Poor sanitation and personal hygiene practices by meat handlers in abattoirs can result in the contamination of meat by microorganisms. This study was carried out in Southeastern Nigeria to determine the bacterial isolates found in the contact surfaces of meat handlers at their workplace. Samples were collected using sterile swab sticks from 108 contact surfaces which included 36 tables, 36 hands and 36 knives of the meat handlers. The samples were taken to the laboratory for bacterial analysis.