Processing and preservation methods of Wagashi Gassirè, a traditional cheese produced in Benin

Wagashi Gassirè (WG) is a traditional cheese produced from cow milk following local processing methods in Benin. The aim of this study was to describe the milk processing methods and the preservation practices with the objective of improving WG production and sanitary quality. A survey was carried out among 390 actors (84 dairy farmers, 165 producers, 53 traders, and 88 consumers) from two municipalities (Dassa and Nikki) in Benin. WG is highly preferred by consumers for its whiteness (63.0%), softness (24.7%), smoothness (19.2%), and firmness (13.7%). WG production is based on the coagulation of milk using Calotropis procera extracts as coagulant. Six milk processing methods, including three new WG production methods were identified, depending on how the C. procera extracts were pre-treated and used during WG production. Boiling (67%) was the most widely used as WG preservation method. The use of aluminium cooking pots (100% of WG producers), WG open-air production (66.7% of producers) and antibiotic misuse (59.3% of dairy farmers) may lead to the chemical or microbiological contamination of WG. Six WG production and six preservation methods were identified after the survey among WG producers and traders. Future studies should assess the sanitary and physico-chemical quality of WG from the identified processing and preservation methods. The next step of research should be also focused on the development of specific standards to produce a better quality of WG.