Microbiological quality of fresh (unpasteurized) fruit juices in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Recently there has been an increase in foodborne illness linked to fresh products including fruit juices. A variety of pathogenic organisms have been known to cause human illness related to the consumption of fruit juices. Data regarding to the microbiological quality of fruit juices, sold in Saudi Arabia are few if not lacking, therefore the aim of this study was to investigate the microbiological quality of fresh fruit juices sold through retail outlets in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 1316 samples including 16 of different types of fresh fruit juices were examined for total aerobic bacteria, total coliforms and E. coli between 28th December 2008 and 18th December 2009. In addition, 51 of fruit juice samples were examined for the presence of potential pathogens. The results of the present study showed that 35.8% of fruit juices had been contaminated with coliforms, while 10% of the examined samples exceeded the acceptable level, and 43% were positive for E. coli. Furthermore, different types of bacteria were isolated from fruit and many of those organisms can cause disease in humans, also some of these microorganisms is an indication for hand contamination and inoculation from human skin such as genera of Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp. and Acinetobacter spp. It is concluded that, application of the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) should be introduced into the retail outlets to improve the quality of fresh fruit juices in Saudi Arabia, and the corresponding authorities should be vigilant in the issuance of permits and licenses in the manufacture and production of these products. © 2011 WIT Press.