Quality assessment of milk in Alexandria

ABSTRACT

The nutrient value, the chemical, and the microbiological quality of packaged, raw and powder milk samples were assessed. Data were obtained for fat, solid not fat, protein, and calcium contents of milk. Ash percentage, lead, and cadmium concentrations, in addition to possible microbial contamination were also determined. Results showed compliance of long life sterilized packaged milk with Egyptian standards for most of samples, especially in fat and solid not fat contents. These ranged from 3.1 0-3.80% and 8.24-9.07%, respectively. Lead content ranged from 0.03-0.55 ppm in liquid milk whereas cadmium ranged from 0.002-0.03 ppm. Protein and calcium contents varied [insignificantly and significantly, respectively] among different milk producing companies. Many [76.00%] had total bacterial count in milk higher than Egyptian Standards [<10 cfu/ml]. Buffalo raw milk, and milk powder were complying with Egyptian Standards concerning their nutrient values, however the former had high total bacterial count [4.97x10[6] cfu/ml] in addition Staphylococcus aureus was detected