Evaluation of the microbiological quality of minimally processed vegetables

The aim of this study was to evaluate the hygienic-sanitary quality of minimally processed vegetables commercialized in the city of Concordia, Santa Catarina State, Brazil. Eight distinct products, sold in 3 different supermarkets, totalizing 24 samples were evaluated. Of the analyzed samples, just one was in discordance with the microbiological parameters established by the Brazilian legislation (210 MPN/g of coliforms at 45 degrees C for Kale 2). Beyond the absence of Salmonella sp. indicated in legislation, all samples also indicated the absence of positive coagulase staphylococci and Listeria monocytogenes. The most expressive microbial counts were obtained when evaluating the aerobic mesophilic microorganisms (ranging from 2.8x10(2) to 2.7x10(2)), and for molds and yeasts (ranging from 4.5x10(2) to 4.9x10(5)). We highlight that the quality and shelf-life of minimally-processed vegetables directly depend on the handling throughout the production chain, since obtaining the raw material, to processing and commercialization. Thus, periodic evaluations of these products can reduce the risks to consumer health and favor the commercial expansion of the segment of fresh and minimally processed vegetables.