(roasted plantain) fish (Trachurus trachurus) in Port Harcourt metropolis, Nigeria. Eighteen samples of roasted
plantain and fish were obtained from three (3) locations in Port Harcourt and analyzed using standard techniques.
Inoculations were done using the spread plate and the Most Probable Number (MPN) techniques. Results showed
that the total viable count of the head of the fish ranged from 1.2×106 to 5.08×106 CFU/g and the mid section ranged
from 1.0×106 to 2.83×106 CFU/g. The percentage of pathogenic bacteria species isolated from the bole and fish
samples were; Staphylococcus aureus (46.0%), Bacillus cereus (30.0%), Escherichia coli (13.3%) and Proteus sp.
(10.0%). Four spoilage moulds were also isolated and they included; Aspergillus niger (33.3%), Apergillus flavus
(33.3%), Penicillium sp. (16.7%) and Neurospora sp. (16.7%). The microorganisms isolated from the roasted
Atlantic Horse Mackerel were most likely to be as a result of cross contamination from improper handling, storage
and display, as well as their survival mechanisms during the roasting process. These microorganisms are involved in
a number of diseases of public health concern and it is recommended that the relevant Ministries of Health and
Environment enforce laws and ensure strict compliance to these laws.