Microbiological analysis of cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale) commercialized in the city of Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

The cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale) is a nut used as food supplement, rich in macro and micronutrients. The world market is expected to grow by around 4.27% a year until 2025, with Brazil being one of the largest producers in the world. With the increase in cashew nut production in the country, there is concern about handling practices that may present risks of microbiological contamination in these products. The ingestion of water and food contaminated by bacteria, fungi and their toxins, viruses, opportunistic intestinal parasites or chemical substances can cause waterborne and foodborne diseases. This study consisted of the microbiological evaluation of 26 samples of industrialized and sold in bulk cashew nuts in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The analyses were carried out according to the methodology recommended by the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia 6th edition (2019). Nineteen samples (73%) showed microbial contamination, with the presence of Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus and Candida sp. In addition, one sample had an Escherichia coli count above the microbiological limits. The results showed that microbiological control is essential, since a high microbial load can alter the nutritional value of food and cause various undesirable effects on human health. Therefore, this study is expected to contribute to discussions on food quality and encourage monitoring strategies, thus ensuring a safe and high-quality product.