FOR MICROBIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY

For wheat flour, we conducted tests for E. coli, coliform count as well as yeast and mould count. Due to improper or poor hygienic condition during the manufacturing process, microorganisms may occur in the finished product.

The national standards have not specified any requirement for microbiological tests with regard to wheat flour. • E. coli was absent in all brands.

• Lowest coliform count (less than 10 cfu/gm) was found in Kanak and Nature Fresh. Coliform count ranged between 100 cfu/gm and 1,900 cfu/gm in the other brands.

• Yeast and mould count ranged from 40 cfu/gm to 930 cfu/gm.

• Microbiological load was found lowest in Kanak and highest in Rajdhani.