An Analysis of the Milk Quality in Cameroon. A Study in Adamawa Region

Abstract

Aims: In order to assess the milk sector in Cameroon, the research and development sector is being questioned about the global quality of milk, as well as the specificity of the breeding context, since the milking activities are essentially based on rudimentary practices. The present work aims at shedding more light on the ongoing discussion on the quality of unpasteurized and fermented milk in the Adamawa region, by presenting the current practices and analysing the milk samples. Place and Duration of Study: To achieve this, this study was carried out in Ngaoundéré in the Adamawa Region of Cameroon, between October 2011 and February 2012. Methodology: Milk was supplied by 5 production units found around the town. A questionnaire aimed at describing the milking techniques was equally administered to the suppliers. Two series of 80 milk samples were collected on each site for physical, chemical (pH, dormic acidity, blue methylene test, density) and microbiological (total bacteria, salmonella, streptococcus, and coliforms) tests, in accordance with the standards. Results: The main results show that the “Peulh” ethnic group represented by the “Mbororos” and the “Fulbe” hold the monopoly of the breeding sector in the Adamawa region. As concerns production techniques, 67 % of breeders carry their milk to the collecting centers within 12 to 15 minutes after milking. The quantity of milk collected by each breeder at the level of the collecting centers is 77 liters on average during the dry season, as opposed to 116 liters in the rainy season. These results also show that the udder and the collecting cans are critical points of milk quality. The precarious hygiene conditions of milking, conditioning and conservation illustrate these results, as confirmed by the microbiological tests which reveal that none of the samples are in conformity with the standards. Conclusion: Finally, the milk production conditions in the Adamawa are not likely to ensure the quality of products put on sale. This study will help to better master the sector, by showing the contribution of hygiene in the milk production.