Ocorrência de coliformes em água de coco (cocos nucifera l.) comercializada por ambulantes em carrinhos do tipo coco express

Abstract

The consumption of coconut water in the João Pessoa city is popularized by street traders who sell the product in adapted carts called “coco express” in public places. This marketing practice increases the risk of contamination by pathogenic microorganisms. This research aimed to study the occurrence of coliforms in coconut water thus marketed in three distinct locations and with greater circulation of people in the center of João Pessoa, Paraiba. It is worth noting that this research does not cover the entire possible sample universe, but is an important indication of the microbiological quality of the product.The samples collected in a total of 9, of which 3 per point of sale, were analyzed for plate standard count and total and thermotolerant coliforms. The results revealed in , plate standard count of the coconut water samples variations in the order of 104 to 108 CFU/ml, with sample sold in P1 point presented the lowest results, with maximum count in the order of 105 CFU/ml, while P2 and P3 obtained counts between 106 and 108 CFU/ml. Regarding the analysis of total coliforms, the moist samples presented concentrations above102 MPN/ml, however two samples collected in point P1 presented numbers below 102 MPN/ml, indicating better hygienic conditions than P2 e P3. In P2 e P3 points all the samples were with total coliforms counts above 102 MPN/ml. Although no thermotolerant coliforms have been detected in any sample, the presence of total coliforms in all of them serves as a warning to health surveillance agencies in order to promote actions to improve the quality of the products marketed by street walkers, in order to ensure the health of the consumer.