Acceptable Microbiological Quality Research Articles

Antimicrobial resistance of Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus spp. isolated from raw cow's milk from healthy, clinical and subclinical mastitis udders

Mastitis is the most common disease of dairy cattle and can be manifested in clinical and subclinical forms. The overuse of antimicrobials in the treatment and prevention of mastitis favours antimicrobial resistance and milk can be a potential route of dissemination. This study aimed to evaluate the biological quality of bulk tank milk (BTM) and the microbiological quality and signs of mastitis of freshly milked raw milk. In addition, to evaluate antimicrobial resistance in Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus spp. isolated from freshly milked raw milk. None of the farms were within the official Brazilian biological quality limits for BTM. Freshly milked raw milk with signs of clinical (CMM), subclinical (SCMM) and no signs (MFM) of mastitis were detected in 6.67%, 27.62% and 65.71% samples, respectively. Most samples of freshly milked raw milk showed acceptable microbiological quality, when evaluating the indicators total coliforms (78.10%), Escherichia coli (88.57%) and Staphylococcus aureus (100%). Klebsiella oxytoca and S. aureus were the most prevalent microorganisms in SCMM and MFM samples. Antimicrobial resistance and multidrug resistance (MDR) were observed in 65.12% and 13.95% of Enterobacteriaceae and 84.31% and 5.88% of Staphylococcus spp., respectively, isolated from both SCMM and MFM samples. Enterobacteriaceae resistant to third-generation cephalosporin (3GCR) (6.98%) and carbapenems (CRE) (6.98%) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) (4.88%) were observed. Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria can spread resistance genes to previously susceptible bacteria. This is a problem that affects animal, human and environmental health and should be evaluated within the one-health concept.

Reformulation of Tunisian Sun-Dried Merguez with Camel Meat: Characterization of Physicochemical and Compositional Changes in Organic Acids, Fatty Acids, Volatile Compounds, and Minerals.

Traditional sun-dried merguez is an authentic Tunisian dried sausage made with a large number of spices and herbs, which was reformulated in this study with camel meat and hump fat and dried as in the artisanal process. This research studied the physicochemical, microbiological, and chemical compositional changes that occurred in fresh camel merguez (FCM) after 12 days of drying to achieve traditional dried camel merguez (DCM). The results showed significant weight loss (54.1%), as well as significant decreases in pH (5.20-4.97), moisture (60.5-12.3%), and water activity (0.986-0.673). These results and the acceptable microbiological quality of DCM can explain the safety of traditionally practiced long-term storage at room temperature. All chemical compositions increased upon drying. The composition of DCM included several organic acids, mainly lactate (2820 mg.kg-1); diverse unsaturated fatty acids, in particular oleic acid (33.2%); and various minerals, specifically iron (8 mg per 100 g), in addition to volatile compounds impacted by herbs and spices rich in terpenes (56.3%). These results can be useful for investing in indigenous products and promoting the exploitation of camel meat.

Development of a plant-based dessert using araticum pulp and chickpea extract: Physicochemical, microbiological, antioxidant, and sensory characterization.

The demand for plant-based products has increased in recent years, due to several aspects related to health and environmental consciousness. This study aimed to produce and characterize a plant-based dairy alternative dessert based on araticum pulp and chickpea extract without added sugar and fat. Three formulations were prepared: Formulation 1 (F1): 20% araticum pulp + 80% chickpea extract; Formulation 2 (F2): 30% araticum pulp + 70% chickpea extract; and Formulation 3 (F3): 40% araticum pulp + 60% chickpea extract. All formulations' chemical composition, sensorial characteristics, viscosity, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and microbiological stability were analyzed during 28 days of storage at 4°C and a relative humidity of 23%. Energetic value ranged from 64 to 71 kcal/100g, and carbohydrate content from 9.68 to 11.06, protein from 3.38 to 3.04, lipids from 1.41 to 1.60, ashes from 0.53 to 0.59 and crude fiber from 0.86 to 1.34 g/100g among the formulations. The increase in the proportion of araticum pulp in the formulations reduced moisture content by 1.2 to 2.1% (F1: 84.2, F2: 83.2, and F3: 82.4), protein content by 3 to 9% (F1: 3.3, F2: 3.2, and F3: 3.0), and pH value by 5.8 to 10.7% (F1: 5.50, F2: 5.18, and F3: 4.91), and increased the TSS by 1.1 to 1.3-fold (F1: 8.36, F2: 8.98, and F3: 10.63 º Brix), total phenolics content by 1.5 to 2.0-fold (F1: 4,677, F2: 6,943, and F3: 10,112 gallic acid μmol/L) and antioxidant activity by 1.8 to 2.8-fold (F1: 1,974, F2: 3,664, and F3: 5.523). During the 28 days of storage at 4°C, the formulations F1 and F2 showed better stability of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity; however, the formulation F3 showed acceptable microbiological quality up to 28 days of storage, higher viscosity, 8 to 16-fold higher than the formulations F1 and F2, respectively (F1: 238.90, F2: 474.30, and F3:3,959.77 mPa.s), antioxidant capacity and better scores in sensory analysis. The present study showed that the plant-based dessert elaborated with araticum pulp and chickpea extract might be considered a potential dairy alternative product with high antioxidant activity, protein content, and a viscosity similar to yogurt; however, its sensory aspects need improvement.

Development and Evaluation of Ready to Reconstitute Mushroom Powder Mix as a Potential Functional Food

ABSTRACT Mushrooms are highly nutritious but also very perishable. The aim of this project is to formulate a readily reconstitutable and shelf-stable mushroom drink powder with good sensorial and nutritional qualities. Fresh Agaricus bisporus (white button mushrooms) were freeze dried and blended (25%) with a starch base (74%), anticaking agent (0.5%), and emulsifier (0.5%). Freeze drying produced a product with better color and nutritional stability. The product had reduced moisture and increased ash, protein, carbohydrate, and unaltered fat content compared to raw mushrooms. Minerals, calcium (178.91 mg/100 g), and iron (119.25 mg/100 g) were detected. Water-soluble vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B9, C) and fat-soluble vitamins (retinol, beta-carotene, ergocalciferol, vitamin K) were reported. Polyphenols like tannic acid, gallic acid, para-Coumaric acid, caffeic acid, trans-ferulic acid, ellagic acid, and quercetin were also detected. Total flavonoid content was 2.15 mg rutin equivalents/g. The product had acceptable microbiological quality and shelf life of 30 days when stored in metallized polyester packaging at room temperature. This study puts forward the idea of converting white button mushrooms into a convenience product while maintaining nutritional and sensorial qualities. It allows reconstitution into different flavors for culinary use as an instant health drink.

Optimization and characterization of a value-added fermented ready-to-servewhey-based beverage with high antioxidant potential

This study was conducted to optimize the process parameters for developing a Ready-To-Serve fermented whey beverage using pineapple juice and mint and characterize the drink. The levels of pineapple juice (20-40%), sugar (5-10%), and mint powder (1-3%) on pH, DPPH, TSS, and overall acceptability were investigated using a central composite design. The optimized process conditions achieved were 39.42% (v/v) of pineapple juice,5.75% (w/v) of sugar, and 1.01% (w/v) of Mentha. The beverage had 89.41% mg GAE/ml total phenolic content and 83.88% DPPH radical scavenging activity. FTIR spectrum confirmed the presence of the O-H stretch of phenolic compounds between3200 cm-1– 3518 cm-1 and conformational changes in the secondary structure of the whey protein at 1625-1647 cm-1 in the fermented sample. The beverage possessed all essential amino acids, the highest being Leu, Val, and Lys and PUFA (ω6/ω3=1.52)and MUFA levels of 6.7±0.96 and 21.57±0.02 mg/100mL,respectively. In addition, hypercholesterolemic fatty acids (C12:0,C14:0, C16:0) were significantly reduced after fermentation. Therefore, a serving of 100mL would contribute 3.53%, 2.96%,and 2.41% towards the RDA of Fe, K, and Mg, for an adult man,respectively. The whey beverage had acceptable microbiological quality on the 30th day of storage under refrigerated conditions. Fermentation with Pediococcus pentosaceus NCDC 273 reduced the coliform count by 5.57% and 4.04% and the Y&M count by2.2% and 2.9% on the 15th and 30th day of storage, respectively

Calidad fisicoquímica y sensorial de cerveza artesanal estilo blonde ale con infusión de flor deshidratada de jamaica (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of the infusion of dried jamaican flower (IFDJ) on the physicochemical and sensory parameters of blonde ale-style craft beer. A completely randomized experimental design with a factorial arrangement was used. Factor A corresponded to concentrations of IFDJ at 5%, 10% and 15%. The Kruskal Wallis and Tukey test were used at 5% significance. In the physicochemical profile, a p < 0.05% was obtained, the results ranged between 0.40% - 0.55% for acidity; 6.17% - 6.66% v/v (alcoholic degree); 3.27 - 3.71 (pH); 2.7 - 3.5 L CO2/L beverage (carbonation), at a sensory level the variables color, persistence of foam, transparency and liveliness were significantly different, the other attributes showed a p > 0.05%. All the treatments presented acceptable microbiological quality, in terms of the physicochemical variables, the alcoholic degree and carbonation were found within what is required by INEN 2262, on the contrary, the acidity was above the norm, and the pH was only acceptable in the T1 (5% IFDJ). According to sensory analysis, treatment T1 (5% IFDJ) showed better acceptance, with golden color characteristics, persistent foam, transparent appearance and balanced liveliness.

Microbial Growth Dynamics in Minced Meat Enriched with Plant Powders

Plant powders with antimicrobial properties can be used in food manufacturing and must comply with the demands of consumers regarding microbiological safety, nutritional value, and sensory properties of foods. The present study aimed to assess the microbial growth inhibitory ability of different plant powders, including by-products of horticultural primary processing (e.g., pomace) in raw and cooked minced pork. The total counts of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, pseudomonads, yeasts, and moulds were studied to assess the microbial growth dynamics in meat samples. Additionally, for the plant powders, which were able to suppress the microbial growth in a total counts dynamics study, the growth potential of Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat (RTE) minced meat samples was estimated by challenge testing. The results showed that the most effective combinations of plant powders in raw minced pork, in relation to the total counts of microorganisms, were 3% apple+1% onion+2% blackcurrant berries (Apple+On+BCber); 3% apple+1% garlic+2% tomato (Apple+Ga+Tom); and 3% apple+2% tomato+1% rhubarb petioles (Apple+Tom+Rhub). However, challenge tests revealed that some plant powders were unable to inhibit the growth of L. monocytogenes. The lowest L. monocytogenes growth potential (δ = 2.74 log cfu/g) was determined for cooked minced pork samples enriched with 2% rhubarb petioles, followed by Apple+On+BCber (δ = 3.63 log cfu/g) and Apple+Tom+Rhub (δ = 3.74 log cfu/g). In minced pork samples without plant additives, the L. monocytogenes growth potential was 7.30 log cfu/g. In conclusion, blends of plant powders may have good potential for developing meat products with acceptable microbiological quality.

Tender coconut water fortified with edible bird's nest protein hydrolysate subjected to sterilization and high hydrolytic pressure processes: Qualities, acceptability and changes during refrigerated storage

The qualities and acceptability of tender coconut water (TC) fortified with edible bird's nest protein hydrolysate (TCBH) subjected to sterilization and high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) under different conditions were investigated. Lower (p < 0.05) a*-, b*- and ΔE*-values, browning index and α-amino group content were observed for all TCBH samples treated with HHP (TCBH-HHP) than sterilized counterparts. Acceptable microbiological quality was found for all TCBH-HHP samples, regardless of treatment time (5–20 min). Similar acceptability was found between TCBH treated with HHP for 5 min (TCBH-HHP5) and the control, while there was slight difference in volatiles. TCBH-HHP5 was selected and stored at 4 °C for 30 days, and qualities and acceptability were monitored. TCBH-HHP5 showed the acceptable microbiological quality within 30 days. Similar likeness for all attributes was attained. Nevertheless, slight changes in color, turbidity and reducing sugar content were found in TCBH-HHP5 after 30 days. Although sterilization effectively inhibited microbial growth, drastically negative alteration in quality, especially discoloration was noticeable. Thus, HHP for 5 min served as a promising process to maintain quality of TCBH during 30 days of refrigerated storage.

Feasibility of Extruded Brewer's Spent Grain as a Food Ingredient for a Healthy, Safe, and Sustainable Human Diet.

This study aimed to determine the effect of the extrusion process on the nutritional and bioactive profiles of brewer’s spent grain (BSG), contributing to nutrition security by applying a circular economy concept. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the effect extrusion parameters (moisture content, screw speed, and barrel temperature ) had on BSG’s soluble dietary fiber, free glucose, and overall antioxidant capacity. Proximate composition analyses, amino acid profile, extractable polyphenolic content, and antioxidant capacity of BSG and brewer’s spent grain extruded under optimal conditions (BSGE) were carried out. Food safety was analyzed by their microbiological quality, gluten, and acrylamide content. Optimal extrusion conditions were 15.8% of moisture content, 164.3 revolutions per min and 122.5 °C. BSGE presented 61% more soluble dietary fiber than BSG, lower digestible starch, 0.546% of free glucose, and protein quality parameters mostly like those reported for egg, soy, and milk. Despite this, BSG’s overall antioxidant capacity was not improved after thermomechanical processing; BSGE had significantly higher extractable polyphenolic content in its alkali extracts, which were determined qualitatively by high-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight assay in its hydro-alcoholic acid extracts. Furthermore, although it is not gluten free, BSGE is a safe food ingredient with acceptable microbiological quality and no acrylamide.

DEVELOPMENT OF ENRICHED CUPCAKES AND COOKIES WITH ORANGE-FLESHED SWEET POTATO (IPOMEABATATAS L.): SENSORY AND NUTRITIONAL EVALUATION

In developing countries especially in Côte d’Ivoire child malnutrition is a major burden. This malnutrition is often associated with poor nutritional composition of the complementary foods introduced during the weaning period. The purpose of this study was to assess nutritional, microbiological, and sensory properties of cupcakes and cookies supplemented with orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP). The proximate and microbiological analysis of enriched products was performed using analytical standard methods. Sensory evaluation of formulated cupcakes and cookies was based on nine-point hedonic scales. Proximate composition showed significant improvements in the contents of ash (1.02±0.06 – 1.98±0.03 g/100g dw), fiber (5.39±0.13 – 7.64±0.47 g/100g dw), and provitamin A (1031 – 4641 mg/100g dw) of enriched cupcakes and cookies compared to control. Based on moderate daily consumption of two pieces of OFSP composite cupcakes (60g/piece) and cookies (44g/piece), children aged 1 to 3 years may cover at least 42 and 85 % of their RDA for vitamin A, respectively. The microbial analysis indicated showed that enriched OFSP cupcakes and cookies were of acceptable microbiological quality. In addition, the enriched OFSP cupcakes and cookies were accepted and liked by the consumers excepted those containing 50% OFSP flour. Thus, cupcakes and cookies formulated with 35% OFSP flour can serve as a valuable vehicle for improving the nutritional status of young children.

Characterization of liquid protein hydrolysates shrimp industry waste: Analysis of antioxidant and microbiological activity, and shelf life of final product

Proteases from shrimp wastes were characterized and protein hydrolysates were obtained. Shrimp protein hydrolysates (SPH) were produced by autolysis (H0) and added 1% (H1) and 2% vol/vol (H2) enzyme extract of shrimp. The hydrolysis degree was determined using a colorimetric method; the capability of hydrolysates to scavenge free radicals was measured with DPPH, and the antimicrobial activity of the SPH was evaluated by the microdilution test. The degree of protein hydrolysis ranged between 43% (H0) and 71.5% (H2) after 90 min, and it functioned as a source of lysine, leucine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and glycine. After 10 min of reaction, all hydrolysates reached 50% of scavenging effect. In addition, the SPH prepared with food additives showed acceptable microbiological quality and pH during 40 days at room temperature. This study aims at introducing a low-cost process which produces SPH with commercial applications in the food industry. Practical applications Currently, shrimp processing wastes represents an environmental and economic problem, since such seafood industry must pay for the landfarming service. This waste treatment is not environmentally efficient, and it affects the value of the final product. However, these wastes have a large number of compounds which hold biological activities of interest that can be used to obtain a high added value product such as protein hydrolysates. This by-product has several potential applications for the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this study, a protein hydrolysate solution was obtained utilizing processed shrimp waste as an enzymatic resource and a protein substrate as well. This research demonstrated the feasibility of obtaining a good protein source that also holds useful antioxidant properties. It is important to highlight that the by-product was obtained without resorting to freeze-drying technology, which makes the industrial process more expensive. To accomplish that, we included low-cost food preservatives and assessed the shelf life of this product of high nutritional quality.

MICROBIAL ASSESSMENT OF READY-TO-EAT FOOD AND FOOD CONTACT SURFACES IN SELECTED RESTAURANTS IN OKADA, SOUTH -SOUTH NIGERIA

Good food hygiene ensures that the preparation and preservation of foods are safe for human consumption. It ensures that food is prevented from microbial contamination at the levels of production to consumption. The aim of this study was to determine the microbial content of ready-to-eat cooked food, ready-to-use serving plates and hands of food handlers in six selected restaurants in Okada, Edo State, Nigeria. The samples were aseptically collected from the restaurants and taken to the microbiology laboratory of Igbinedion University, Okada for analysis. The microbial content of the samples was identified by standard microbiological methods. The microorganisms isolated were Enterobacter species, Streptococcus species, Micrococcus species, Bacillus species, Staphylococcus aureus and Saccharomyces species. The total aerobic viable counts, total coliform counts and total Staphylococcus counts in the ready-to-eat cooked food from the six restaurants were 3.67 ± 0.33 × 102 cfu/g - 2.71 ± 0.05 × 104 cfu/g; 3.33 ± 0.33 × 102 cfu/g - 2.39 ± 0.04 × 104 cfu/g and 0.00 ± 0.00 cfu/g - 3.70 ± 0.21 × 103 cfu/g respectively. The concentration of microbes on the food contact surfaces from ready-to-use serving plates were 0.00 ± 0.00 cfu/cm2 - 14.67 ± 0.33 cfu/cm2 and 0.00 ± 0.00 cfu/cm2 - 22.67 ± 0.33 cfu/cm2 in the hands of the food handlers. Therefore, foods provided to consumers at these restaurants are not of acceptable microbiological quality.

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (Haccp) Assessment of Regulated Premises: An Assessment of Standard Hotels in Ilorin Metropolis

Food safety issues in developing countries are mostly centered on illnesses that are linked to poor hygiene but food hygiene in hotels remains an area of concern. Hospitality Industries are known to provide food, drink or accommodation to people who are away from home. Food poisoning can arise from public eating places like hotels and restaurants as a result unhygienic food preparation. The purpose of the study was to assess the HACCP compliance of standard hotels in Ilorin metropolis, Kwara state. Purposive sampling was used with laboratory component carried out in five standard hotels in Ilorin metropolis and the hotels with alphabets. Data were obtained through on-site observation using checklist and face to face interview.15 food samples (fried rice, white rice), 12 hand swab samples and 7 seven water samples were collected to determine the hygienic level of the food. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the results were presented using charts and tables. Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris, S. aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans were isolated in various foods, water and hand swab. The total viable count was below 105CFU/g in all the seventeen (17) samples with 1.71 – 86.82 x 102 CFU in food, 1.65 – 12.2 x 102 CFU in hand swab and 10.63 23x102 CFU in water samples. From the findings, the food samples found to be within the marginal aerobic colony count limits according to the International Commission for Microbiological Specification for Foods (ICSMF, 1978). This implies that, though the food samples were within limits of acceptable microbiological quality, there might have been possible hygiene problems either in the preparation of the food or in handling of the food. From the checklist, it was revealed that majority (95%) of the hotels (B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I) did not meet the HACCP requirement. The study revealed that the concept of HACCP was not understood and that this could be impacting on the general food hygiene standards and food-handling practices of personnel. Therefore, there is need to implement HACCP system to prevent food poisoning outbreaks and the hotels can easily adapt the strategy only if law enforcers could put strict monitoring in place.

Storage Stability of Functional Spent Hen Meat Cutlets under Modified Atmospheric Packaging at Refrigeration (4±1°C) Temperature

In the current study, storage stability of spent hen meat cutlets enriched with natural antioxidants viz. C (control), T1 (with 4% carrot powder) and T2 (3% broccoli powder) during refrigerated storage (4±1°C) stored under modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) conditions containing a mixture of 50% carbon dioxide (CO2) and 50% nitrogen (N2) gases. The samples were drawn at a regular interval of 7 days till the occurrence of incipient spoilage and analyzed for various quality attributes, lipid oxidation parameters instrumental colour and texture profile, sensory and microbial quality parameters. The pH recorded significantly (P<0.05) lower value on day 7 for control and day 14 for treatments and, thereafter recorded increasingly value with the elapse of storage time, in all samples. Thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) value of treated products (T1 and T2) were noted significantly (P<0.05) lower than control on 7th day of storage. Highest value of β-carotene content was recorded for T1. Standard Plate Count (SPC) increased significantly throughout storage with the elapse of storage days; but the value remained well below the spoilage level. There was a declining trend for instrumental colour values during storage. As the days of storage increased, overall acceptability of all samples showed decreasing (P<0.05) trends, however the sensory panelists rated the treated product good to very good even on last day (35th) day of storage. Thus spent hen meat cutlets could be successfully kept for 35 days in MAP conditions with acceptable sensory attributes and permissible microbiological quality.

Storage stability of functional chicken meat bullets coated with composite antimicrobial biodegradable films under different packaging conditions

Storage stability of processed chicken meat bullets (CMB) packaged under different packaging conditions in supplementation with composite antimicrobial biodegradable (CAB) films impregnated with 0.5% (v/v) cinnamaldehyde, a natural antimicrobial, was evaluated. Different treatments such as aerobic (aerobic packaged product, CAB-coated product and aerobic packaging), modified atmosphere packaging (MAP; MAP 50 : 50; CO2 and N2, F-MAP; CAB-coated product and MAP) and vacuum (VAC; vacuum packaged, F-VAC; CAB-coated product and vacuum) are assessed for various physico-chemical (pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances number, peroxide value and free fatty acids), microbiological (standard plate count, psychrophiles, coliforms, yeast and moulds, Staphylococci sp.) and sensory quality characteristics at 7-day intervals throughout the storage period of 35 days under refrigerated (4 ± 1°C) conditions. The CMB coated with CAB films under MAP (F-MAP) conditions had significantly (P &lt; 0.05) better value for water activity, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances number, peroxide value and free fatty acids throughout the storage in comparison to the Control (MAP). Standard plate count was significantly (P &lt; 0.05) lower for F-MAP than all other treatments. Staphylococci sp., coliforms, Salmonellae sp., yeast and mould, and psychrophiles were completely absent in CAB-coated products throughout the storage period. All the CAB products had better (P &lt; 0.05) sensory attributes than their respective Controls during storage. Results concluded that the CMB coated in developed CAB films have a storage life of more than 35 days under MAP conditions under refrigerated (4 ± 1°C) conditions with the acceptable physico-chemical, microbiological and sensory quality attributes.

An assessment of the microbiological safety of fresh whole-leaf herbs from retail premises in the United Kingdom with a focus on Salmonella spp.

Fresh herbs have been associated with a number of outbreaks in recent years, in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. A study of fresh herbs was carried out to assess their microbiological safety in relation to Salmonella contamination and levels of Escherichia coli. Between January and March 2014, 774 samples of ready-to-eat, fresh, whole-leaf herbs were collected from retail premises in the United Kingdom. Overall, Salmonella was detected in nine samples (1·2%). Of these, five were curry leaves. Other herbs contaminated with Salmonella were basil (two samples), walleria (1) and coriander (1). Escherichia coli was detected in 13% of samples, with 11% containing unsatisfactory levels (≥10(2) g(-1)). Whilst 88% of samples in this study were of an acceptable microbiological quality, the presence of Salmonella and/or elevated E. coli levels in 12% is a cause for concern. Curry leaves, in particular, had significantly higher rates of contamination with both Salmonella and E. coli than other herbs. This study highlights the potential public health risk associated with the consumption of certain ready-to-eat fresh herbs, and the need for good hygiene practices and effective decontamination procedures during the growth, harvesting and subsequent handling of these products.

Application of amaranth protein isolate and hydrolysate on a reduced salt fish restructured product: antioxidant properties, textural and microbiological effects

SummaryThis work evaluates amaranth protein ingredients [isolate (I) and alcalase‐hydrolysate (H)] acting as antioxidants and binders in restructured fish products. Gel products were obtained after thermal treatment (40 °C, 30 min; 90 °C, 30 min) of different formulations from fish muscle pastes, where salt (2%) was partially or totally replaced by I or H. Antioxidant activity was assessed by conjugated dienes and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARs) measurements during the chilled storage. Textural properties, water‐holding capacity, colour and microbiological quality were evaluated. Reduced‐salt content products containing 2% w/w of I or H partially inhibited lipid oxidation especially at the level of the decomposition of hydroperoxides into secondary products, due to about 50% and 60% of inhibition of TBARs, respectively, was registered. Also, these products showed acceptable microbiological quality and technological characteristics with only minimal changes in properties as gel hardness and colour parameters compared with control products (2% w/w salt).

Microbiological Quality of Blister Pack Tablets in Community Pharmacies in Jordan

Purpose: To investigate the microbiological quality of blister-packed tablets manufactured and marketed in Jordan in order to assess Good Manufacturing Practice by pharmaceutical industries in the country. Methods: A total of 66 items of 22 registered blister-packed tablet brands were purchased from community pharmacies in Amman. All the items were investigated for total bacterial count and the presence of specified microorganisms using compendial procedures. Results : Out of 66 items purchased, forty eight (72.7 %) products were free from microbial contamination, while 11 (16.7 %) harbored bacteria in counts < 102 cfu/g. The remaining 7 (10.6 %) items contained counts between 102 and < 103 cfu/g. The most commonly encountered contaminant was Bacillus species but specified objectionable bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aereus were not detected. Aspergillus and Penicillium species were isolated in low numbers from few products. Six of the products with the highest stratified bacterial count were manufactured by one company and were also found to be contaminated with Aeromonas species. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that blister-packed tablets produced by Jordanian pharmaceutical companies are within acceptable microbiological quality but the detection of microbial load in some brands close to the maximum allowable limit suggests the need for better adherence to GMP in the country. Keywords : Blister pack, Community pharmacy, Good Manufacturing Practice, Microbial contamination,Quality control, Tablets

The effect of concentration of chymosin on the yield and sensory properties of camel cheese and on its microbiological quality

The transformation of camel milk into soft cheese by using chymosin and yoghurt starter culture (Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus) was investigated. The cheese yield and sensory properties were related to the concentration of chymosin. A yield of 16.74 g/100 mL of milk was obtained with a chymosin concentration of 1.7 mL/L of milk. The cheeses obtained with concentrations ranging between 1.0 mL and 2.9 mL of chymosin/L of milk scored highly regarding their sensory properties and had an acceptable microbiological quality. This study demonstrated that cheesemaking from camel milk can be made successfully providing that the appropriate chymosin concentration is used; and that 1.7 mL of chymosin/L of milk was optimal.

Occurrence of foodborne pathogens and characterization of Staphylococcus aureus in cheese produced on farm-dairies

The objective of this study was to address knowledge gaps identified in an earlier risk assessment of Staphylococcus aureus and raw milk cheese. A survey of fresh and short-time ripened cheeses produced on farm-dairies in Sweden was conducted to investigate the occurrence and levels of S. aureus, Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli, to characterize S. aureus isolates with special emphasis on enterotoxin genes, antibiotic resistance, bio-typing and genetic variation, and to collect information related to production practices. In general, the hygienic quality of farm-dairy cheeses appeared to be of an acceptable microbiological quality, e.g. L. monocytogenes and staphylococcal enterotoxin were not detected in cheese samples. However, E. coli and enterotoxigenic S. aureus were frequently found in raw milk cheeses and sometimes at levels that are of concern, especially in fresh cheese. Interestingly, levels in raw milk fresh cheese were significantly lower when starter cultures were used. Up to five S. aureus colonies per cheese, if possible, were characterized and about 70% of isolates carried one or more enterotoxin genes, most common were sec and sea. The Ovine biotype (73%) was most common among isolates from goat milk cheese and the Human biotype (60%) from cow milk cheese. Of all isolates, 39% showed decreased susceptibility to penicillin, but the proportion of isolates from cows' cheese (66%) compared to isolates from goats' cheese (27%) was significantly higher. S. aureus isolates with different properties were detected in cheese from the same farm and, sometimes even the same cheese. Isolates with the same pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE)-pattern were detected on geographically distant dairies. This indicates that multiple sources and routes of contamination are important. To improve the safety of these products efforts to raise awareness of the importance of hygiene barriers and raw milk quality as well as improved process control can be suggested, e.g. use of starter cultures and monitoring of fermentation with a pH-meter. For future safety assessments, a better understanding of factors determining toxin production in these cheeses is needed.