Microbiological evaluation of pequi (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Caryocar brasiliense</Emphasis> Camb.) preserves made from a typical Brazilian fruit

The microbiological quality of preserves made from the pulp of the pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.), a typical Brazilian fruit, was assessed. The total aerobic mesophilic and the yeast and mould counts in the samples suggest inadequate hygienic conditions during the processing of the product. Low levels of contamination by coliform bacteria and enterobacteria were observed; however, the presence of injured cells of these microorganisms was demonstrated. The presence of Staphylococcus aureus and sulfite-reducing clostridia was not shown. Salmonella spp. was found in 33% of the samples analysed, indicating that the product can represent a public health risk.