Contaminantes fecais em ostras em criadouro natural na Região do Baixo Sul da Bahia

Abstract

Oysters are considered healthiest foods. However, when they are consumed raw or undercooked may be responsible for foodborne diseases outbreak. Due to their feeding occurs by filtration, they are able to accumulate in their tissues pathogenic microorganisms, when collected from polluted environments. This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of mangrove oysters (Crassostrea rhizophorae), extracted from natural beds in the estuary of the River Una in Valenca city, Bahia, by using coliforms and Salmonella as bioindicators. Oyster samples were collected each month during December 2010 to November 2011 (120 individuals were analyzed). Most Probable number (MPN.g-1) estimates for coliforms at 45°C ranged between 1,1x104 to 1,3 x 105. The presence of Escherichia coli was confirmed in 100% (10/10) of oyster samples and Salmonella was present in 10% (1/10) of the samples. These results indicate that waters of the estuary of the River Una are contaminated by fecal material. Therefore, the consume of raw oysters poses a risk to the health of the population becoming important cooking or the depuration process in order to ensure safety of food.