Effect of predisposing factors on microbial loads in camel milk along the pastoral dairy value chain in Kenya

Abstract

The aim of this study was to map the camel milk value chain and establish the predisposing factors for increase in microbial counts in milk along the chain. Isiolo County was chosen for the study. Data collection was done through key informant interviews, structured interview schedules, observation and microbial analysis of milk samples. During milk sampling, milk temperature, environmental temperature, time and volume of milk from which the sample was taken were recorded. Along the value chain, microbial counts in milk increased significantly from log 10 4.91 ± 1.04 CFU/ ml at production to log 10 7.52 ± 1.32 CFU/ml at Nairobi market for total viable counts and log 10 3.68 ± 1.28 CFU/ml at production to log 10 6.42 ± 1.13 CFU/ml at the Nairobi market for coliform counts. At production, milking persons neither washed their hands nor cleaned the camels' udder before milking, and plastic, non-food grade containers were the only form of receptacles used for milk along the chain. The relationship between microbial counts and time taken to transport milk along the chain was significant while the volume of milk in the receptacle had no effect on microbial counts. The milk was held at a temperature of between 28 and 32.5°C before delivery to secondary collection centres from 10:15 am to 6:30 pm for cooling. Training on milk quality for milk handlers at the collection centre had no effect on microbial counts. Affordable access to low-cost food grade plastic containers as well as cooling milk in the individual receptacles within two hours of milking, without bulking and refilling again into the receptacles for transportation, as is the practice, would reduce microbial counts. Similarly, training on milk quality should start at production where milk contamination is initiated. Finally, milk value addition would improve milk shelflife enabling access to distant markets. This would greatly improve the livelihoods of the pastoral camel milk producers.

Aspects of the sustainability of the camel milk value chain and its regulatory framework in Isiolo County, Northern Kenya

“…According to the 2019 census, Isiolo central had the highest population, with 121,066 persons, Garbatulla had 99,730 persons, and Merti had the lowest population with 47,206 persons. In terms of climate and land-use system, Isiolo County is a typical arid and semi-arid region with a bimodal rainfall pattern, characterized by long rains from March to May, and short rains from October to December (Nato et al, 2013(Nato et al, , 2018Noor et al, 2013). The temperatures are high throughout the year, ranging from a mean minimum of 27 o C and a maximum of 30 o C, in almost all parts of the county (Nato et al, 2018).…”

“…In terms of climate and land-use system, Isiolo County is a typical arid and semi-arid region with a bimodal rainfall pattern, characterized by long rains from March to May, and short rains from October to December (Nato et al, 2013(Nato et al, , 2018Noor et al, 2013). The temperatures are high throughout the year, ranging from a mean minimum of 27 o C and a maximum of 30 o C, in almost all parts of the county (Nato et al, 2018). About 95% of the county is classified as arid or very arid, while only 5% is semi-arid, generally receiving an average annual rainfall below 300 mm (12 inches), which is also unevenly distributed (National Drought Management Authority, Ministry of Devolution and Planning, 2015).…”

“…Noor et al (2013) and Rashid, H. ( 2014) also report that camel milk value chains have been studied in similar regions in Africa, such as Morocco, Djibouti, Mauritania, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Traditionally, camel milk was consumed either in fresh form or as fermented milk regardless of whether the milk was spoiled (Nato et al 2018). The study also revealed that traditional milk production methods contribute to increased bacterial loads due to low hygiene practices that subject the product to poor quality and safety standards.…”

“…The assumption is that the sustainability of a reliable value chain can only be achieved if appropriate social, institutional, and political support can be strengthened to improve the adaptive capacity of the local value chain's actors. Studies have pointed out that the development of organized marketing channels and the strengthening of processes that add value to milk would enable camel milk producers to earn more from their stock and guarantee safety and quality to urban consumers (Nato et al, 2018;Farmer & Mbwika, 2012). Also, Noor et al, 2013 indicates that camel milk is a strong boost for sales, and in certain regions, such as the Middle East, is the driver for intensification of camel dairying.…”

An approach towards improving safety and hygiene control practices in emerging dairy chains : the case of Tanzania

“…A study by Nato et al (2018) to assess predisposing factors on microbial loads in milk, found that along with the value chain microbial counts increased as milk was held at 28 to 33 o C before cooling.…”