Investigation on hygienic-sanitary quality of almond paste produced in Sicily
2000
Rosa, R. la | Russo, A. | Verdone, A. | Aloschi, S. (Catania Univ. (Italy). Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Fitosanitarie)
The survey has been performed on 30 samples, obtained by retail stores, representatives of 7 brands produced in industrial plants and of 2 brands home-made. For each sample quantitative and qualitative microbial analyses were performed. Extraneous materials have been detected by filth-test. Results showed high levels of total microflora contamination (bacteria, moulds and yeasts) in home-made samples, with total coliforms over the suggested limits and Escherichia coli in one of them; Bacillus cereus and group D enterococci have been detected in 3 samples, whereas Staphylococcus aureus was not found in any sample. Out of the total microbial population, different genera of bacteria, belonging to Enterobacteriaceae, Micrococcaceae and Bacillaceae families, have been characterized and, among fungi, mainly yeasts and one Aspergillus mould have been detected. Extraneous materials were mainly insect fragments (46.67% out of the total): fragments of beetles, moths and ants have been collected. Mites have been found only in 3 samples. Synthetic fibers have been also detected on 46.67% out of the total. Results are indicative of a satisfactory hygienic-sanitary quality of almond paste, especially the one produced at industrial level, but they reveal microbiological and/or biological risks that could result in a potential hazard
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