Análise microbiológica das polpas de frutas regionais no municipio de Benjamin Constant

Abstract

Fruit pulp is a non-fermented, non-concentrated and undiluted product with a minimum content of total solids, which is derived from the edible part of the fruit. It is obtained from pulpy fruits using an appropriate technological process. During the present study, the presence of Shigella sp. and the protozoan Trypanossoma cruzi were observed in the açaí samples. Based on the data presented, it is evident that attention to the microbiological quality of fruit pulps is needed, especially in the municipality of Benjamin Constant-AM, where discrepancies were observed in relation to the established standards for the absence of Salmonella spp. and Shigella spp., as well as the detection of protozoa in the açaí sample. The scarcity of resources and the lack of inspection in the production of these pulps in riverside communities increase the risks of contamination and spread of foodborne diseases. To mitigate these problems, it is essential to invest in training programs for local producers, promoting appropriate hygiene and food handling practices, in addition to strengthening monitoring and inspection systems to ensure food safety and protect the health of the population. Thus, this study focused mainly on carrying out microbiological and microscopic analysis of the main pulps sold in the municipality of Benjamin Constant-AM in order to alert the population about the treatment of these processed products and to seek solutions for inspection and assistance for those who handle these foods.