The quality of regulated and unregulated yoghurt sold in Abraka, Delta State, was determined using standard microbiological procedures. The physical parameters of the brands at time of purchase were also determined. Bacterial counts for branded yoghurt ranged from 0.0 x 103 CFU/ml (sample A) to 3.8 x 103CFU/ml (sample E) and a total coliform counts ranged from 0.0 x 103 CFU/ml (sample A) to 3.60 x 103CFU/ml (sample B). However, the bacterial counts for unbranded yoghurt ranged from 1.4 x 103 CFU/ml (sample D) to 3.0 x 103(sample C) and total coliform counts ranged from 1.0 x 103 CFU/ml (sample A) to 2.5 x 103 CFU/ml (sample C). The occurrence of potential pathogenic microorganisms from both regulated and unregulated yoghurt sample is alarming as compared with Codex Alimentarius Standards for yoghurt products. The isolated bacteria identified include Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus spp, and Escherichia. coli and Streptococcus spp. The result obtained from this study shows poor microbiological standards of unregulated yoghurts during the research period. This result underlines the need for improved hygienic measures in the processing and distribution of these products to prevent harmful public health issues.
