Qualidade microbiológica de amostras queijo coalho comercializado a granel em Messias e União dos Palmares-AL

Abstract

The objective was to evaluate the microbiological profile of samples of coalho cheese sold at open-air markets in the municipalities of Messias and União dos Palmares-Alagoas. The samples were subjected to microbiological analyses for total coliforms, coliforms at 45°C, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella. All samples had counts greater than 1.1 x 103 NMP g-1 for total coliforms. For thermotolerant coliforms, three of the samples (75%) were outside the limits established by RDC No. 12 of January 2, 2001, which is a maximum of 5x102 NMP g-1. The presence of E. coli was detected in all samples; however, the NMP was below those recommended by Normative Instruction No. 60, dated December 23, 2019, of the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), which establishes a limit of 103 NMPg-1. The presence of Salmonella was not found in any sample. The high rate of contaminants in the samples indicates failures in good manufacturing practices or conservation, which puts consumer health at risk.