Milk quality in southern Togo: university study highlights health risks

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Extract from the article: A thesis defence on the health quality of cow's milk and its derivatives was held on Saturday 31 January at the University of Lomé. The work, presented by Yibor Jacques Aimé, focuses on the theme: ‘Evaluation of hygiene practices and the health quali

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A thesis defence on the health quality of cow's milk and its derivatives was held on Saturday 31 January at the University of Lomé. The work, presented by Yibor Jacques Aimé, focuses on the theme: ‘Evaluation of hygiene practices and the health quality of cow's milk and derivatives in the maritime region of southern Togo’.

Based on the assumption that the health quality of milk is strongly influenced by hygiene practices and the level of knowledge of those involved in the sector, the study aims to assess their mastery of Good Hygiene Practices (GHP) and to analyse the microbiological quality and heavy metal content of commercial dairy products.

Under the watchful eye of the jury, composed of professors and researchers specialising in food technology and public health, Yibor Aimé began his presentation with a clear introduction: "Cow's milk plays a central role in food and nutritional security in Togo. As an important source of protein, calcium and essential vitamins, it contributes significantly to the population's diet. However, in the Maritime region, the dairy industry faces significant health challenges, particularly related to microbiological and chemical contamination."

The study was conducted in the Maritime region of Togo, covering the prefectures of Avé, Golfe, Vo and Zio. Using a combination of surveys, bacteriological sampling and interviews with stakeholders in the dairy chain, the thesis revealed a number of sensitive issues: "Thirty product samples (raw milk, pasteurised milk, cheese, yoghurt and dèguè) were taken for microbiological analysis of mesophilic aerobic flora (MAF), coliforms, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella. Heavy metal content (lead, cadmium, aluminium, zinc, among others) was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry."

The applicant has shown that microbiological analyses reveal high levels of contamination in the products. ‘Raw milk has particularly high levels of mesophilic aerobic flora and Escherichia coli.  Processed products collected from retailers have higher microbial loads than those observed at processors, suggesting post-treatment recontamination, probably linked to breaks in the cold chain,’ said Yibor Jacques Aimé.

The applicant also highlighted the lack of specific training for producers and processors, as well as the lack of suitable equipment, such as cold chains, to ensure better sanitary quality of dairy products. ‘To guarantee healthy milk, it is imperative to strengthen training for stakeholders on hygiene, improve collection infrastructure and establish regular health checks throughout the value chain,’ he proposes.

At the end of the presentations, the jury members praised the relevance of the subject and the methodological rigour of the work. After deliberation, the jury approved the thesis, recognising its scientific contribution and its relevance to public health and the development of the agri-food sector in Togo. This defence serves as a reminder of the importance of academic research in analysing local issues and developing sustainable solutions that benefit the population.

William O.