Isolation And Characterization Of Molds Associated With The Spoilage Of Cake:- Omotosho, Titilayo F.

ABSTRACT

This research evaluated microbial quality of cakes sold in Umuahia for the presence of mold which are usually spoilage and toxigenic microorganisms. Fungi of five (5) genera were isolated which includes Penicillium digitatum, Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma spp., Mucor spp. and Cladosporium spp. The result of the predominance showed Penicillium digitatum, Aspergillus niger, Trichoder ma spp., Mucor spp. and Cladosporium spp. with 87.5%, 62.5%, 25%, 62.5% and 25% predominance respectively. The total fungal count of the various samples considered in this study range from 2.2x10cfu/g to 8.6x10cfu/g. The result from this study showed presence of some potential mycotoxigenic fungi. Therefore it is recommended that adequate hygiene practice should be observed while preparing snacks to reduce contamination.