Biochemical and Microbiological Characteristics of Fresh Sardines (Sardinella maderensis) from the Exclusive Economic Zone of Mauritania Waters

Mauritania acquired the status of a lower-middle-income country in 2014. Economic development has relied primarily on fishing and mining. Fish is an important element in achieving adequate nutrition in these countries. But foodborne chemical and microbial hazards that may be present in fish are a major concern. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and biochemical properties of fresh sardines (Sardinella maderensis). Totally, 135 samples were collected when boats arrived at the landing site and at the four main market sites. Microbiological and biochemical parameters were tested. Samples taken just after the arriving of the boats, almost always met quality standards. But when samples were taken on the markets, a high proportion of samples showed values of microbiological parameters higher than permissible limits. TVBN and TMA that result from the degradation of fish proteins, exceeded the authorized values in approximately 20% of the samples. Our findings suggest that postharvest contamination is the main health risk. Ensuring the cold chain, improving hygienic conditions in markets, and training vendors in food safety are the main challenges to be faced to reduce public health risks.