Physicochemical, microbiological and microscopic evaluation of artisanal rapaduras produced in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil

Abstract

The aim of this work was the physicochemical, microbiological and microscopic evaluation of artisanal rapaduras produced in Cuiaba, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. The determination of the proximal composition, pH and the microscopic analyses were made according to the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The concentrations of minerals and toxic metals were quantified by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The Coliforms at 45 degrees C and Salmonella sp. were determined according to the American Public Health Association (APHA). The results obtained were: moisture (6.09 to 16.34%), ash (0.07 to 1.88%), insoluble solids (0.11 to 11.3%), pH (4.73 to 5.61), proteins (0.21 to 0.47%), sucrose (13.15 to 43.89%), and reducing sugars (10.96 to 26.28%). Significant differences were found between the samples (p