Quality assessment and hazard analysis in the small-scale production of poultry feeds in Ogbomoso, Southwest Nigeria

We evaluated the microbiological and nutritional qualities of poultry feeds in Ogbomoso, Southwest Nigeria, and determined the incidence of aflatoxins in the samples. Feed samples from five small-scale enterprises were analysed twice a month for five months. The feeds were examined for heterotrophic bacteria, coliforms, and fungi. Similarly, proximate analyses of the feeds, and the incidence of aflatoxin were carried out. The production outfits and processes were critically examined for the identification of hazards associated with the production of feeds. The results showed that the feeds are enriched, which could meet the nutritional requirements of the birds. However, all the feeds were of poor microbial quality and contaminated with coliform, heterotrophic bacteria and fungi. Also, 36% was contaminated by aflatoxin, all indicating poor feed safety. A hazard analysis and critical control point plan was evolved for the production of feed, with the view of ensuring the safety of the feeds. It was discovered that poor manufacturing practices by these small-scale producers contributed enormously to the level of microbial and aflatoxin contamination.