Microbiological quality of “fresh” coconut water sold in Sinop-MT

Abstract

The consumption and production of coconut water in Brazil has increased in recent years due to the search for a healthier life since coconut water has a balanced chemical composition, considered a natural isotonic solution, with a pleasant flavor and aroma. Coconut water is a nutrient-rich food that favors microbial development when good handling practices are not applied in obtaining and storing that food. Thus, given the possibility of contamination of coconut water by deteriorating and pathogenic microorganisms, it is extremely important to assess the microbiological quality of this food sold in Sinop, Mato Grosso. For this research, 18 samples of coconut water were purchased from street vendors, which were transported in isothermal boxes to the Veterinary Microbiology Laboratory, of the Federal University of Mato Grosso, Campus Sinop for microbiological evaluation. The analyzes performed were composed of enumeration of total and thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli research and identification of Salmonella spp. Of the 18 samples evaluated, all (100%) showed contamination by total coliforms, with nine samples (50%) with an enumeration greater than 1.1 x 103 NMP / mL. Although there is no standard in the legislation, high values ​​of total coliforms indicate contamination during food processing or post-processing. Regarding thermotolerant coliforms, 88.89% (16/18) presented values ​​below 1x10² NMP / mL, being considered fit for consumption according to the values ​​established by the National Health Surveillance Agency. In one sample, E. coli was isolated in one sample and in another sample, the genus Salmonella spp. Thus, despite the fact that most of the analyzed coconut water samples are suitable for human consumption in accordance with current legislation (3/18), it is essential to have greater supervision by the regulatory bodies of food production, to ensure good hygiene and food handling practices in order to minimize risks and ensure the health of consumers.