Sanitary Conditions and Microbial Quality of Egg Products at Poultry Markets in Jigawa State

Eggs are susceptible to microbial contamination through shell penetration and surface contamination, and their safety is directly affected by market storage conditions. This study evaluated the sanitary conditions and microbial quality of eggs sold at poultry markets in Dutse and Hadejia, Jigawa State, North West Nigeria. Eighty egg samples were collected from 20 market vendors and subjected to microbiological analysis targeting total aerobic plate counts, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus on both shell surfaces and internal contents. Market hygiene conditions were evaluated using structured observational checklists. Vendors were interviewed on storage practices and product source verification. Salmonella species were isolated from 17.5% of shell rinse samples and from the internal contents of 7.5% of eggs with cracks or porous shells. Total plate counts on egg surfaces exceeded accepted limits in 55% of samples. Market conditions were largely inadequate, with eggs stored at ambient temperatures averaging above 30 degrees Celsius, no refrigeration available, and contaminated surfaces used for display. The study concludes that egg safety at Jigawa State poultry markets is compromised by both environmental conditions and handling practices. Cold chain infrastructure, vendor training, and government egg safety standards enforcement are urgently needed. Keywords: egg safety, Salmonella, microbial quality, poultry markets, Jigawa State