Review Article
Prevalence and Characterization of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. in Layer Hen Eggs in West Africa:
A Comprehensive Review of Laboratory-Based Evidence
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
131-139
Received:
6 November 2025
Accepted:
19 November 2025
Published:
11 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijmb.20251004.11
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Layer hen eggs are an essential source of affordable animal protein for many populations in West Africa. However, their microbiological safety is frequently compromised by contamination with pathogenic Salmonella and Escherichia coli, two major agents of foodborne infections. This literature review, covering the period 2000–2025, draws upon international databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and AJOL) to analyze studies conducted in several countries across the subregion, including Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Benin, and Burkina Faso. Findings indicate that the prevalence of E. coli in eggs is generally higher than that of Salmonella, with rates exceeding 20% in certain contexts. Observed variations are influenced by several factors, including production system (intensive, semi-intensive, or backyard), the level of biosecurity implementation, and flock health management. Moreover, the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant strains, particularly to fluoroquinolones and cephalosporins, poses an increasing threat to both animal and human health by limiting available therapeutic options. A major concern also lies in disparities in diagnostic capacities: while some laboratories employ advanced techniques such as PCR or molecular serotyping, others still rely on conventional culture methods, potentially leading to an underestimation of contamination rates. This review highlights the urgent need to strengthen microbiological surveillance of eggs through harmonized regional programs. The development of reference laboratories, improvement of farm biosecurity practices, and strict quality control of eggs are identified as priority measures to mitigate health risks, protect public health, and ensure food safety across the region.
Abstract: Layer hen eggs are an essential source of affordable animal protein for many populations in West Africa. However, their microbiological safety is frequently compromised by contamination with pathogenic Salmonella and Escherichia coli, two major agents of foodborne infections. This literature review, covering the period 2000–2025, draws upon interna...
Show More
Research Article
Mushrooms as Food Supplements: Mg, K, Se-Zn/P in Dried Mushrooms
Emidio Borghi*
,
Eugenio Borghi
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 4, December 2025
Pages:
140-176
Received:
16 July 2025
Accepted:
17 September 2025
Published:
19 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijmb.20251004.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Modern nutritionists often prescribe and recommend various nutritional supplements to their patients, taking into account their specific needs. Five essential minerals for the human body are magnesium, potassium, zinc (metals), and phosphorus and selenium (non-metals). Walking through our cities, we see many pharmacies, drug stores, and herbalist's shops displaying colorful signs with the words "MgKS"—dietary supplement—in their windows. These supplements are often expensive, but poor mountain populations have access to mushrooms directly from the pristine wilderness, free of charge. We, who have been analyzing fresh, pickled, frozen, dried, and freeze-dried mushrooms since 1980, have found that these elements (Mg, K, P, Se, Zn), essential for the human body, are present in good concentrations in wild edible mushrooms found locally. To this end, we analyzed the "edible" mushrooms listed in Annexes 1 and 2 of Presidential Decree 376/1995 of the Italian Republic, obtaining significant information. Some of these mushrooms are coveted by mushroom hunters for their deliciousness and high price, and therefore these products quickly fly onto the market; other edible mushrooms, sometimes valuable, are neglected and often left to rot in the woods: we are referring to Leccinum and Suillus, various Lactarius and Ruusula, many Agaricus, Tricholoma, and Macrolepiota, as well as the numerous less valuable Boletaceae (Butyriboletus, for example). By exploiting this food (and economic) resource with a healthy walk in the woods, you can therefore obtain excellent supplements, and therefore we are convinced that these data have scientific value as well as a health and social purpose.
Abstract: Modern nutritionists often prescribe and recommend various nutritional supplements to their patients, taking into account their specific needs. Five essential minerals for the human body are magnesium, potassium, zinc (metals), and phosphorus and selenium (non-metals). Walking through our cities, we see many pharmacies, drug stores, and herbalist's...
Show More
