Safety and Quality Assessment of Raw Buffalo Milk in Cairo, Egypt: Heavy Metals and Adulteration

Ragab, Eid; Mahmoud, Hend; El-Batawy, Osama Ibrahim; Awad, Rizk A.

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2025.412650.12164

Safety and Quality Assessment of Raw Buffalo Milk in Cairo, Egypt: Heavy Metals and Adulteration

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Food Inspector - Central Food Control Office, Cairo Health Affairs Department.

² Director of the central laboratory of residue analysis of pesticides and heavy metals in food (QCAP)

³ Food Science Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Shoubra El-Kheima, Cairo, Egypt

⁴ Food Technology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University., Egypt.

10.21608/ejchem.2025.412650.12164

Abstract

This study evaluated the safety and quality of raw buffalo milk marketed in Cairo Governorate, Egypt, through analysis of 80 samples collected from four main regions over one year (October 2023–October 2024). The assessment included chemical composition, adulteration detection, microbiological quality, and heavy metal contamination. Results showed 30% of samples contained added water adulteration, and 37.5% did not meet the fat content standards. Microbiological analysis indicated all samples were free of Brucella spp., with somatic cell counts within acceptable limits, reflecting good udder health and hygienic practices. Heavy metal testing revealed no mercury, tin, or arsenic, but 33.75% of samples exceeded permissible lead levels, especially in the Eastern region, raising environmental and health concerns. These findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring, improved regulatory enforcement, and education to ensure milk safety and quality for consumers in Cairo Governorate.

Keywords