Microbiological analysis of the Cirina forda (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) commercialized in North Togo

Edible insects are presented as a source of protein, fat and micronutrients. Consequently, they are an attractive growing environment for microorganisms. Although, professionals in this sector in Sub-Saharan Africa use traditional harvesting, processing and marketing techniques, there is little scientific data on the microorganisms that infest edible insects. The aim of this study was to identify the microorganisms present in the Cirina forda supply chain, the most commercially marketed insect species in Togo. A total of 300 samples of fresh, processed and commercial C. forda caterpillars were collected and analyzed using standard microbiological microorganism identification techniques. The caterpillar was 90% contaminated with Staphylococcus spp, 60% by Escherichia coli, 40% by Enterobacter spp, 40% by Aspergillus niger, 30% by Klebsiella pneumoniae and 10% by Mucor spp, Klebsiella oxytoca, Proteus spp, Serratia spp and Aspergillus flavus. Pathogenic microorganisms are found in all samples at all stages of the supply chain, so caterpillars handled using traditional methods are detrimental to the health of the consumer. The presence of germs indicative of contamination of the caterpillar analyzed exposes consumers to the risk of food poisoning. Keywords: Cirina forda, marketing, microorganisms, Togo