Comparative Microbiological Evaluation of Raw Chicken from Markets and Chilled Outlets of Mauritius

The present study was carried out to compare the microbiological status of raw chicken thighs purchased from two main markets and chilled retail outlets of Mauritius. In order to determine the microbiological acceptability of the lots sold in the different outlets, random representative samples were purchased and microbiologically analysed for Total Viable Counts (TVC), Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. Two independent trials were conducted and the results were interpreted against published microbiological criteria for raw poultry. Microbiological results indicated that the lots of raw chicken at the two markets and one chilled outlet were deemed unacceptable for sale when compared with the microbiological criteria for acceptable lots. In addition, the results showed that the population of TVC (5.8 log cfu/g) and presumptive Staphylococcus aureus (4.7 log cfu/g) were significantly higher in chicken purchased from markets than chilled outlets (P < 0.05). Findings of the present study highlight the need for public health officials to enforce stricter hygiene and food safety measures against market retailers of raw chicken.