Microbiological Quality Assessment of Fresh Fish Sold in Ibadan Central Market, Oyo State

This study assessed the microbiological quality of fresh fish sold in the Ibadan Central Market, Oyo State, South West Nigeria, to determine their safety for human consumption. Fish is highly perishable, and contamination during handling, display, and sale poses significant public health risks, particularly in warm tropical climates. Samples of Clarias gariepinus, Oreochromis niloticus, and Scomber scombrus were randomly collected from ten market vendors over a six-week period. Standard microbiological procedures were used to determine total viable counts, coliform counts, and the presence of Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. Total viable counts ranged from 1.2 x 10^5 to 8.7 x 10^7 CFU/g, with values exceeding the acceptable limit of 10^6 CFU/g in 63 percent of samples. Faecal coliforms were detected in 54 percent of samples, indicating contamination of faecal origin. Salmonella spp. were isolated from 18 percent of all samples, presenting a significant food safety concern. Staphylococcus aureus counts were elevated in samples from vendors lacking ice or refrigerated storage. The study identified poor handling practices, absence of hygienic surfaces, and inadequate cold chain infrastructure as the major contributing factors. Public health implications are significant given the high volume of fresh fish sold for direct consumption. The study recommends compulsory food safety training for fish vendors, provision of affordable icing facilities, and routine market inspections by state public health agencies. Keywords: fish safety, microbiological quality, Ibadan market, fresh fish, food contamination