Physicochemical and bacteriological status of retail-marketed shrimps and crabs in Beni-Suef, Egypt

Abstract

A total of a hundred and twenty samples of crustaceans, 60 samples of shrimp (30 peeled & 30 unpeeled shrimps) and 60 samples of local chilled crab were collected from Beni-Suef markets. Collected samples were evaluated by the physicochemical deteriorative criteria (pH and TVB-N), the bacterial load determination (mesophilic count, psychrophilic count, Staphylococcus aureus count and MPN of coliforms, faecal coliforms and E. coli), and isolation and identification of specific pathogens (E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus). All fresh and frozen seafood samples were judged as safe food from the microbiological point of view. The total mesophilic, psychrophilic and S. aureus for all examined seafood samples lies within the standard permissible limits recommended by national and international agencies. The suggestive measure for produce high-quality shrimp & crab was recommended.