Al-lamadine Mahamat^1,, Abdoullahi Hissein Ousman¹, Brahim Adoum Ahmat¹, François Tapsoba², Boureima Kgambega², Mbaigolmem Beral Valery¹, Bakaranga Via Issakou¹, Abdelsalam Tidjani¹

Mango production is a very important sector for food security and social well-being of the Chadian population. Mango processing in Chad is limited, and diversification of processed products is very important. However, there is a lack of data on the biochemical and microbiological characteristics of the mango varieties used. The aim of this study was to assess the microbiological characteristics of dried mangoes consumed in five localities in Chad (Doba, Bebedjia, Koumra, Moundou and Bongor). One hundred samples were randomly collected from 3 vendors of the 5 localities. Standard microbiological methods were used. Results showed a total absence of spores, Escherichia coli and Salmonella in all samples analyzed. Total aerobic mesophilic counts (TAMC) was detected in all samples analyzed. TAMC was significantly affected (p=˂0.05) by locality in contrast to water content (p˂0.05). Total coliforms were counted in all samples except those from Bongor. Faecal coliforms were found in samples V3 from Doba, V1 from Bebedjia, V1 from Koumra and V3 from Moundou. Staphylococci and fungi were found in samples from Koumra, Doba and Moundou. Principal microbiological analysis revealed that samples from Bongor were the most hygienic, unlike those from Koumra. In summary, these results will open up new prospects for enhancing the value of dried mangoes. Therefore, it’s imperative for the government and its partners to propose appropriate solutions for better processing, through training and awareness-raising on good hygiene and manufacturing practices.

dried mangoes, locality, microbiological flora, coliforms, Salmonella