SHARMA BRIJESH. and VERMA BHUVNESHWARI.
ABSTRACT
This investigation presents comparative data on detection of Staphylococcus aureus in milk products of Mathura & nearby region. A total of 30 samples including 5 each from milk vendors, household milk, dairy farm, Gaushala, butter and Dahi were tested for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus and identified by isolation using nutrient agar media, colony characteristics, morphological characteristics (Gram staining) and biochemical tests. Out of the 30 samples tested 8 (26.7%) were found to be S. aureus positive. Furthermore, Gaushala milk was having highest S. aureus contamination (60%) followed by dairy farm (40 %), milk vendors on bicycle (20%), household milk (20%), Dahi (20%) and butter (0%), respectively. The results of the present study showed that hygienic methods of milk collection should be adopted especially in Gaushalas and dairy farms to ensure contamination free milk and good health of consumers. However, a comprehensive study including large sample size and more accurate techniques like PCR are required to ascertain the actual confirmed status of S. aureus contamination in milk and milk products of this particular region.
Keywords: Nutrient agar, Gram staining, colony, morphological characteristics, PCR.