Recherche de contamination bactérienne dans le contenu des œufs issus des élevages traditionnels de poule

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the microbiological quality of the internal contents of eggs from traditional farms and to investigate the presence of pathogenic bacteria that may pose a risk to consumers. Thirty-five (35) eggs, divided into three batches, were analyzed in the laboratory. The analyses focused on staphylococci, coliforms, and salmonellae using selective culture media and appropriate enrichment procedures. Suspected colonies obtained were subsequently subjected to macroscopic, microscopic, and biochemical examinations. The results showed a complete absence of staphylococci and coliforms in all analyzed samples. No strains of Salmonella spp. were detected. However, isolated bacterial colonies recovered after selective enrichment were identified as belonging to the species Citrobacter freundii. Microscopic analyses revealed motile, Gram-negative bacilli that were oxidase-negative, while biochemical profiles obtained using the API 20E system confirmed the identification of this bacterium. The presence of Citrobacter freundii in the internal contents of some eggs suggests contamination of fecal or environmental origin, favored by insufficient hygienic conditions in traditional farming systems. This bacterium represents an indicator of microbiological contamination and a potential health risk to consumers. These findings highlight the importance of adhering to good practices in egg production, collection, transportation, and storage in order to ensure microbiological quality and reduce the risk of foodborne bacterial transmission.