Isolation and Identification of Bacteria from Jollof Rice Sold in Auchi Metropolis

ABSTRACT
This study aimed to investigate the bacterial contamination of Jollof rice obtained from
different vendors in Auchi Metropolis—Progressive Fast Food and Road-side Cantee. A total
of two Jollof rice samples were analyzed using standard microbiological techniques to isolate
and identify bacterial contaminants. The plate count method revealed bacterial
concentrations of 3.8 × 10³ cfu/ml for the sample from Progressive Fast Food and 4.8 × 10³
cfu/ml for the sample from Road-side Cantee. Two distinct bacterial isolates were identified:
Staphylococcus species and Bacillus species. Staphylococcus species exhibited yellow to
white colonies on Nutrient Agar, with cocci arranged in clusters, a Gram-positive reaction,
and a catalase-positive result. It was non-motile and negative for both indole and oxidase
tests. Bacillus species formed smooth, mucoid colonies, displayed short thick bacilli with
varying arrangements, a Gram-positive reaction, was catalase-positive, and motile. This
isolate was negative for both indole and oxidase tests. The study highlights the presence of
potentially pathogenic bacteria in Jollof rice from both vendors, with a higher bacterial load
observed in the road-side vendor's sample. The findings underscore the importance of
stringent hygiene practices in food preparation and handling to ensure food safety.