Bacteriological quality of some dairy products [Kariesh cheese and ice cream] in Alexandria

The present study estimated the total viable bacterial density, total and faecal coliforms, and E. coli in Kariesh cheese and ice cream. The study included 160 ice cream and Kariesh cheese samples [80 samples each]. Ice cream samples were 47 packed [33 cup and 14 stick] and 33 open samples while Kariesh cheese samples were 62 open, 18 packed samples [8 of known brand and 10 of unknown brand]. Samples were collected from supermarkets, shops and street vendors. All samples were analyzed for enumeration of total viable heterotrophic bacteria using standard pour plate method, and for the determination of the total coliforms, fecal coliforms and E. coli using multiple tube dilution method. Ice cream samples, showed that the total bacterial count was >/= 1.5x105 cfu/g in 26 [32.5%] samples, total coliforms were >/= 10 MPN/g in 36 [45.0%] samples, fecal coliforms were detected in 45 [56.3%] samples, and E. coli was detected in 34 [42.5%]. Kariesh cheese samples, showed a total coliforms of >/= 10 MPN/g in 54 [67.5%] samples, while fecal coliforms were detected in 64 [80%] samples, and E. coli was detected in 60 [75%]. It is recommended to use and implement immediate regulatory measures like good manufacturing practices as well as distribution and retail storage practices for ensuring microbiological safety of ice cream and Kariesh cheese