Aeromonassp. in freshwater fish and antimicrobial resistance: emerging pathogen / Quantificação deAeromonassp. em peixes de água doce e resistência a antimicrobianos: patógeno emergente

ABSTRACT: The bacteria Aeromonassp. are naturally reported in aquatic ecosystems and possess pathogenic potential, being considered as emerging pathogens in humans and animals. They also cause considerable losses in fish farming and, through water, can contaminate numerous foods. This study quantified and analyzed the antimicrobial resistance profile of Aeromonassp. in fish. A total of 72 samples of two fish varieties (leather fish, Pseudoplatystomafasciatumx Leiariusmarmoratusand round fish, Colossomamacropomumx Piaractusmesopotamicusand Colossomamacropomumx Piaractusbrachypomus) were purchased from two types of sources (fresh and frozen) and three commercial establishments (supermarket, market, and fishmonger). The 55 isolated Aeromonascultures were evaluated for their antimicrobial resistance profile by the disc diffusion method. Upon quantification, the count of Aeromonassp. ranged from 4.22 to 6.00 Log CFU/g; ten different species, including A. eucrenophila, A. hydrophila, A. caviae, A. media, A. jandaei, A. veroniibv. sobria, A. trota, A. schubertii, A. veroniibv. veronii, and A. shigelloides, were identified. Among the 55 isolates, 64.45% showed resistance to Ampicillin-sulbactam, and 75% were sensitive to gentamicin and ciprofloxacin. It was concluded that 100% of the evaluated samples were contaminated by Aeromonassp., which may present a risk to consumer health since bacteria can be etiological agents of Foodborne Diseases. The antimicrobial resistance profile showed resistance to ampicillin and multi-resistance to different classes of antimicrobials, demonstrating problems with choosing an antimicrobial for treatment of any disease.

RESUMO: Aeromonas sp. são bactérias presentes naturalmente no ecossistema aquático e apresentam potencial patogênico, sendo considerados patógenos emergentes em humanos e animais. Ainda, causam perdas consideráveis em piscicultura e, através da água, podem também contaminar inúmeros alimentos. Diante disso o objetivo do trabalho foi quantificar e analisar o perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos de bactérias do gênero Aeromonas sp. em peixes. Um total de 72 amostras foram adquiridas, sendo duas variedades de peixes (peixe de couro Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum x Leiarius marmoratus e os peixes redondos Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus e Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus brachypomus), dois tipos (fresco e congelado) e de três estabelecimentos comerciais (supermercado, feira e peixaria). As 55 culturas isoladas de Aeromonas foram avaliadas quanto ao perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos pelo método de difusão em disco. Os valores encontrados na quantificação de Aeromonas sp. variaram de 4,22 a 6,00 Log UFC/g, e foram identificadas dez espécies diferentes, sendo A. eucrenophila, A. hydrophila, A. caviae, A. media, A. jandaei, A. veronii bv. sobria, A. trota, A. schubertii, A. veronii bv. veronii e A. shigelloides. Entre os 55 isolados, 64,45% apresentaram resistência a Ampicilina-sulbactam, 75% foram sensíveis à gentamicina e ciprofloxacina. Concluiu-se que 100% das amostras avaliadas estavam contaminadas por Aeromonas sp. podendo apresentar risco à saúde do consumidor visto que estas podem ser agentes etiológicos de Doenças Transmitidas por Alimentos (DTAs). O perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos comprovou a resistência a ampicilina e apresentou multirresistência a diferentes classes de antimicrobianos, demonstrando um problema relacionado à opção de antimicrobiano para tratamento no caso do desenvolvimento de alguma doença.

Effect of amla and ginger powders on quality criteria of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) fingers / Efeito da amla e do gengibre em pó nos critérios de qualidade dos palitos de bagre-africano (Clarias gariepinus)

Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) meat isn't preferred by consumers in compared to other fish species meat, thus to enhance the use of catfish meat, ready to eat catfish fingers were prepared with some plants additives (amla and ginger powder). The mean objective of this study was to assess the impact of amla and ginger powder on catfish finger qualities in terms of physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensorial parameters under stored at a low temperature (5 ± 1 °C). The obtained results were compared with those of a control sample (basic formula) and a sample containing the synthetic antioxidant. During the storage period, the levels of pH, thiobarbituric acid, total volatile basic nitrogen, trimethylamine, total bacteria count, psychrophilic bacteria, molds and yeasts counts increased dramatically, although the values remained within acceptable ranges. The findings also revealed, that amla and ginger powder considerably (p < 0.05) reduced the changes in quality parameters, as well as there was a considerable increase in the quality parameter in all treated samples than in the control. Finally, amla and ginger powder can be a substitute for synthetic antioxidants and antimicrobials. These findings suggest that the powder of amla and ginger are suitable for use as a natural antioxidants and antimicrobials to extend the shelf-life of animal products.

Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) meat isn't preferred by consumers in compared to other fish species meat, thus to enhance the use of catfish meat, ready to eat catfish fingers were prepared with some plants additives (amla and ginger powder). The mean objective of this study was to assess the impact of amla and ginger powder on catfish finger qualities in terms of physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensorial parameters under stored at a low temperature (5 ± 1 °C). The obtained results were compared with those of a control sample (basic formula) and a sample containing the synthetic antioxidant. During the storage period, the levels of pH, thiobarbituric acid, total volatile basic nitrogen, trimethylamine, total bacteria count, psychrophilic bacteria, molds and yeasts counts increased dramatically, although the values remained within acceptable ranges. The findings also revealed, that amla and ginger powder considerably (p < 0.05) reduced the changes in quality parameters, as well as there was a considerable increase in the quality parameter in all treated samples than in the control. Finally, amla and ginger powder can be a substitute for synthetic antioxidants and antimicrobials. These findings suggest that the powder of amla and ginger are suitable for use as a natural antioxidants and antimicrobials to extend the shelf-life of animal products.

Commercial mastitis vaccines - effects on mastitis rates and somatic cell counts in Saanen goats

Background: Staphylococcus spp. are the most frequently isolated microorganisms in mastitis cases of small ruminants. The virulence factors of Staphylococcus spp. are critical in the treatment. Therefore, preventive medicine and mastitis control programs, especially herd vaccinations are of great importance in the prevention of mastitis. However, it is not always easy to obtain these vaccines under field conditions. This study, it was aimed to compare the effects of different commercial Staphylococcus spp. vaccines licensed for bovines and species-specific mastitis vaccines on mastitis rates and somatic cell count (SCC) on Saanen goats on field conditions. Materials, Methods & Results: The animal material consisted of 115 (230 udder halves) nulliparous Saanen goats. Goats were randomly grouped as bovine vaccine 1 (BV1 , n = 58), bovine vaccine 2 (BV2 , n = 58), small ruminant vaccine (SRV, n = 56), and control (n = 56). Vaccines were administered to goats in 2 doses according to the label regimen. First milk samples were collected between 0-5 days in milk (DIM) for microbiological analysis and 25-35 DIM for SCC. The other milk samples were collected at 25-35 (1st month) DIM, 60-65 (2nd month) DIM, 85-95 (3rd month) DIM, 115-125 (4th month) DIM, 145-155 (5th month) DIM for microbiological analysis and SCC. Non-aureus staphylococci (NAS) and Staphylococcus aureus were the most frequently isolated microorganism. It was found that the total mastitis rate decreased in vaccine groups compared to the control group. A significant difference was found only in the BV2 and SRV groups. The significant difference in S. aureus infection was found only in the SRV group. Mastitis vaccines used in this study decreased the NAS mastitis rate, but no significant difference was observed. It was found that the clinical mastitis incidence decreased in all vaccine groups compared to the control group, and a significant difference was found between the BV2 and SRV groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Somatic cell count was lower in the SRV and BV2 groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Discussion: In this study, compatible with the previous reports NAS and S. aureus were the most frequently isolated microorganism. The diversity of virulence factors of Staphylococcus spp. also plays an important role in its high incidence. In some countries, mastitis vaccines used in cows are also administered to small ruminants for reducing infection rates. Similarly, in this study, it was found that the mastitis rate decreased in all vaccine groups compared to the control group. A significant difference was found only in the BV2 and SRV groups. It is thought that the reason for the statistical difference may be due to the biofilm antigen in the BV2 and SRV. In addition, J5 strain in the BV2 is estimated to be effective in reducing the prevalence of gram-negative mastitis. It was observed that the infection rates decreased in the vaccine groups, especially due to S. aureus and NAS. Spontaneous treatment rates were very close to each other between the groups. The reason for the high rate of spontaneous treatment in this study can be explained by the fact that the animals were young and in their 1st lactation. SCC was lower in all vaccine groups compared to the control group. This situation is associated with the decrease in infection rates related to the use of vaccines. It was observed that SCC was lower in the vaccine groups. In addition, SCC was found to be lower in this study compared to similar studies. However, it is evident that the use of species-specific vaccines in the SRV group significantly reduced the rates of total S. aureus mastitis, subclinical NAS mastitis, and new infections by NAS compared to other vaccines. Furthermore, the species-specific vaccine significantly increased the rate of spontaneous treatment for S. aureus mastitis.

Análise dos perigos microbiológicos em amostras de caldo de cana / Analysis of microbiological hazards in samples of sugarcane juice

O caldo de cana é uma bebida nutritiva, muito comercializada por vendedores formais e ambulantes que, muitas vezes, não possuem condições adequadas de preparo, armazenamento e manipulação do caldo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a contaminação microbiológica do caldo de cana comercializado por vendedores formais e ambulantes na cidade de Uberlândia/MG. Foram analisadas dez amostras do produto para contagem total de bactérias mesófilas, NMP/mL de coliformes totais e termotolerantes, pesquisa de Escherichia coli (e outras bactérias entéricas), incluindo Salmonella spp. Coliformes totais foram recuperados em todas as amostras e os termotolerantes em 70% delas, apresentando valores acima do padrão estabelecido pela legislação vigente. Não foram encontradas E. coli ou Salmonella spp., porém outras bactérias entéricas foram recuperadas em todas as amostras, sendo a mais prevalente Klebsiella pneumoniae. Os resultados mostram a necessidade de melhorias durante todos os processos realizados para obtenção do caldo de cana, a fim de minimizar a contaminação e presença de bactérias patogênicas.(AU)

Sugarcane juice is a nourishing drink marketed by formal and street vendors, who often lack adequate brewing preparation, storage, and handling conditions. This work aimed to evaluate the microbiological contamination of cane juice marketed by formal and ambulant vendors in Uberlandia/MG. Ten product samples have been analyzed for a total count of mesophilic bacteria, NMP/mL of total and thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli (and other enteric bacteria) and Salmonella spp. Total coliforms were recovered in all samples and thermotolerant in 70% of the total, presenting values above the standard established by the current legislation. Not found Escherichia coli or Salmonella spp., but other enteric bacteria have been recovered in all samples, the most prevalent being Klebsiella pneumoniae. The results show the need for improvements during all processes performed to obtain the sugarcane juice to minimize the contamination and the presence of pathogenic bacteria.(AU)

Effect of bactofugation of raw milk on total bacterial and aerobic spore counts and on microbial diversity of sporeformers / Efeito da bactofugação do leite cru nas contagens bacteriana total, esporos aeróbios e na diversidade microbiana de formadores de esporos

This study describes the effect of bactofugation (10,000 × g in a continuous flow of 10,000 L/h) of three batches of raw milk on total bacterial count (TBC) and aerobic spore count, and it also shows the effect on the microbial diversity of spore-forming bacteria by analysing their genetic variability through molecular approaches. Given that milk must be preheated to approximately 55 °C before being bactofuged, for comparison, the three batches were evaluated at different stages as refrigerated raw, preheated, and bactofuged milk. For preheated milk, it was found that bactofugation caused a significant reduction (p < 0.05) of 99.52% (from 4.5 × 106 to 2.1 × 104 CFU/mL) in the mean TBC and of 95% (from 333 to 17 CFU/mL) in the aerobic mesophilic spore count. Due to the effect of bactofugation on preheated milk, a reduction of 82% was observed in both TBC and aerobic spore count. With respect to diversity, 107 isolates from raw milk, prior to bactofugation, and 16 isolates from bactofuged milk were recovered and grouped into 40 and 8 clusters, respectively. The predominant species detected in raw and preheated milk were Bacillus toyonensis (63% - 20 clusters) and Lysinibacillus fusiformis (15% - 8 clusters). Proportionally, B. toyonensis (69% - 6 clusters) and L. fusiformis (25% - 1 cluster) were predominant in bactofuged milk. B. pumilus, L. varians, B. flexus, B. invictae, and B. megaterium, bacteria with a known milk spoilage potential, were isolated from milk prior to bactofugation, and they reduced to undetectable levels in bactofuged milk. Bactofugation of milk, therefore, reduces the TBC and aerobic spore count, with a significant effect in reducing the microbial diversity of spore-forming bacteria, proportional to their incidence in raw milk. Therefore, bactofugation can be an alternative to increase the shelf life and technological potential of milk.(AU)

Esse estudo descreve o efeito da bactofugação (10,000 × g em fluxo contínuo de 10,000 L/h) de três lotes de leite cru nas contagens bacterianas totais (CBT) e de esporos aeróbios, verificando também o efeito sobre a diversidade microbiana dos formadores de esporos por abordagem molecular de variabilidade genética. Como o leite a ser bactofugado deve ser pré-aquecido (≈55ºC), os três lotes foram avaliados enquanto cru refrigerado, pré-aquecido e bactofugado. Em associação com o pré-aquecimento, foi verificado que a bactofugação promoveu a redução significativa (p < 0.05) de 99,52% (4,5 x 106 para 2,1 x 104 UFC/mL) na contagem bacteriana total e 95% (333 para 17 UFC/mL) dos esporos aeróbios mesófilos. Considerando o efeito isolado da bactofugação sobre o leite já pré-aquecido, foi observada a redução de 82% tanto para CBT quanto para formadores de esporos. Em relação à diversidade, foram recuperados 107 isolados do leite anterior à bactofugação e 16 isolados do leite bactofugado, agrupados em 40 e 8 clusters, respectivamente. Foi observado predomínio das espécies Bacillus toyonensis (63% - 20 clusters) e Lysinibacillus fusiformis (15% - 8 clusters) no leite cru e pré-aquecido e, proporcionalmente, B. toyonensis (69% - 6 clusters) e L. fusiformis (25% - 1 cluster) no leite bactofugado. Bacillus pumilus, Lysinibacillus varians, B. flexus, B. invictae, e B. megaterium, isolados do leite antes da bactofugação e com potencial deteriorante conhecido, foram reduzidos a níveis indetectáveis no leite bactofugado. A bactofugação do leite, portanto, reduz a CBT e as contagens de esporos aeróbios, também com efeito significativo na redução da diversidade de formadores de esporos, proporcionalmente, conforme a sua incidência no leite cru, tendo potencial para ser utilizado como alternativa para aumento da vida útil e potencial tecnológico do leite.(AU)

Influence of the seasons on the quality and composition of milk from dairy farms in the northern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Influência das estações do ano sobre a qualidade microbiológica do leite de fazendas leiteiras da região norte do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

This study aimed to verify the relationship between parameters of physicochemical composition, microbiological quality, and volume of milk delivered to a dairy in the northern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, at four different times in 2020. For this purpose, the parameters volume, protein, fat, lactose, total solids, somatic cell count (SCC), and standard plate count (SPC) were evaluated. The data were collected in January, April, July, and October from 1634 dairy farms located in the northern region of Rio Grande do Sul. The data were evaluated using Pearson's correlation, while the means were compared using Tukey's test, both at a 5% significance. Milk fat and protein contents were higher during fall (4.02 and 3.35%) and winter (3.90 and 3.36%, respectively), contributing to a higher concentration of solids. The microbiological quality of milk, especially SCC, is compromised during the warmer months due to the thermal stress suffered by the animals, challenging their immune system and increasing their susceptibility to diseases. The highest milk SPC in the winter (247.12 CFU/mL) refers to the transfer of contamination from the teat to the tank due to the inefficiency of pre-milking procedures. Therefore, the microbiological quality of milk was variable between the studied periods, and fat and protein contents suffered reductions during the summer, reflecting lower remuneration for quality given the high SCC in the same season.

O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar a relação entre parâmetros da composição físico-química, qualidade microbiológica e volume de leite entregue a um laticínio na região Norte do Rio Grande do Sul, no ano de 2020, em quatro diferentes épocas do ano. Para isso, foram avaliados os parâmetros volume, proteína, gordura, lactose, sólidos totais, contagem de células somáticas (CCS) e contagem padrão em placas (CPP). Os dados foram coletados nos meses de janeiro, abril, julho e outubro, em 1634 propriedades leiteiras localizadas na região Norte do Rio Grande do Sul. Os dados foram avaliados por meio da correlação de Pearson e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey, ambos a 5% de significância. Os teores de gordura e proteína do leite foram maiores durante o outono (4,02 e 3,35%) e o inverno (3,90 e 3,36%, respectivamente), contribuindo para a maior concentração de sólidos no mesmo período. A qualidade microbiológica do leite, principalmente a CCS, é comprometida durante os meses mais quentes, em virtude do estresse térmico sofrido pelos animais, desafiando o sistema imune e aumentando a susceptibilidade a enfermidades. A maior CPP do leite no período de inverno (247,12 UFC/mL) remete à transferência de sujidades do teto para o tanque, em virtude da ineficiência dos procedimentos pré-ordenha. Portanto, a qualidade microbiológica do leite foi variável entre os períodos estudados, sendo que os teores de gordura e proteína sofreram reduções durante o verão, refletindo em menores remunerações por qualidade, visto a alta CCS na mesma estação.

Physicochemical and microbiological quality of bovine milk from Vale do Taquari in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Qualidade físico-química e microbiológica do leite bovino do Vale do Taquari no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The goal of the present study was to verify the quality of refrigerated raw milk from dairy properties and also of refrigerated raw milk, pasteurized and Ultra High Temperature (UHT) milk from industries in Vale do Taquari in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Physicochemical, microbiological and milk composition analysis were carried out, as established by legislation, in addition to total and thermotolerant coliforms and psychrotrophic counts in the three types of milk and mesophiles count in pasteurized milk and UHT milk from the industries. The collections took place in two industries and 33 dairy properties. Regarding the properties, two (6%) had milk with acidity above that established by legislation and three (9%) had milk with a total bacterial count (TBC) above the established. The milk from industry 1 presented acidity, TBC and density out of the established standards. The two industries and 53.2% of the properties had milk with somatic cell counts (SCC) above that determined by legislation. The milk from the industries showed higher amounts of SCC, TBC, psychrotrophic and total and thermotolerant coliforms than the milk from the dairy properties, and the milk from industry 1 showed higher amounts than the industry 2, in the microbiological parameters.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a qualidade do leite cru refrigerado das propriedades produtoras de leite e do leite cru refrigerado, pasteurizado e Ultra High Temperature (UHT) das indústrias do Vale do Taquari no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Foram realizadas análises de composição do leite, análises físico-químicas e análises microbiológicas, estabelecidas pela legislação, além de coliformes totais e termotolerantes, contagem de psicrotróficos nos três tipos de leite, contagem de mesófilos no leite pasteurizado e no leite UHT das indústrias. As coletas ocorreram em duas indústrias e 33 propriedades produtoras de leite. Em relação às propriedades, duas (6%) apresentaram leite com acidez acima do estabelecido pela legislação e três (9%) apresentaram leite com contagem bacteriana total (CBT) acima do estabelecido. O leite da indústria 1 apresentou acidez, CBT e densidade fora dos padrões estabelecidos. As duas indústrias e 53,2% das propriedades apresentaram leite com contagem de células somáticas (CCS) acima do determinado pela legislação. O leite das indústrias demonstrou maiores quantidades de CCS, CBT, psicrotróficos e coliformes totais e termotolerantes que o leite das propriedades produtoras de leite e o leite da indústria 1 apresentou maiores quantidades que a indústria 2, nos parâmetros microbiológicos.

Classification of dairy properties according to the geometric mean of the somatic cell count and its antimicrobial resistance profile / Classificação de propriedades leiteiras de acordo com a média geométrica da contagem de células somáticas e seu perfil de resistência aos antimicrobianos

Milk and its derivatives are highly consumed foods worldwide, with recognized nutritional importance. The search for the production of products with superior quality is constant. For the present work, 26 milk-producing properties were selected, with a total of 506 milk samples collected during the period from October 2019 to May 2020 being evaluated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of milk produced in dairy properties in the region west Paraná, classified as good or bad based on the results of the Somatic Cell Count (SCC) and through sampling (n = 10) to evaluate the resistance profile of enterobacteria and Staphylococcus spp. isolated from milk samples, in addition to the presence of the mecA gene in strains of Staphylococcus spp. resistant to oxacillin. There were significant differences between the good and bad properties for the levels of lactose, SCC (cell/mL), and Standard Plate Count (SPC) (CFU/mL). The strains of Staphylococcus spp. showed differences in the percentage of resistance in relation to the good and bad properties for antibiotics: tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, oxacillin, amikacin, clindamycin, gentamycin, and erythromycin. The mecA gene was not detected in any of the coagulase-negative Staphylococcus isolates that showed resistance to oxacillin. For enterobacteria, the isolated species differed in relation to the classification of properties, with predominance for Escherichia coli (40%) for properties classified as bad and Hafnia alvei (40%) for those classified as good. The percentage of antibiotic resistance compared to enterobacteria isolates was higher in properties classified as good. Monitoring through microbial culture and antibiogram is extremely important, favoring the correct choice for the treatment of animals with a reduced selection of resistant strains.(AU)

O leite e seus derivados são alimentos altamente consumidos em todo mundo, com importância nutricional reconhecida. A busca pela produção de produtos com qualidade superior é constante. Para o presente trabalho foram selecionadas 26 propriedades produtoras de leite, sendo avaliado um total de 506 amostras de leite colhidas durante o período de outubro de 2019 a maio de 2020. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade do leite produzido em propriedades leiteiras da região oeste do Paraná, classificadas como boas ou ruins com base nos resultados da Contagem de Células Somáticas (CCS) e por meio de amostragem (n=10) avaliar o perfil de resistência das enterobactérias e Staphylococcus spp. isolados das amostras de leite, além da presença do gene mecA em cepas de Staphylococcus spp. resistentes à oxacilina. Houve diferenças significativas entre as propriedades boas e ruins para os teores de lactose, CCS (cél./mL) e Contagem Padrão em Placas (CPP) (UFC/mL). As cepas de Staphylococcus spp. apresentaram diferenças no percentual de resistência em relação às propriedades boas e ruins para os antibióticos: tetraciclina, ciprofloxacina, oxacilina, amicacina, clindamicina, gentamicina e eritromicina. Não foi detectada a presença do gene mecA em nenhum dos isolados de Staphylococcus coagulase negativa que apresentaram perfil de resistência à oxacilina. Para as enterobactérias as espécies isoladas diferiram em relação à classificação das propriedades, com predomínio para Escherichia coli (40%) para as propriedades classificadas como ruins e Hafnia alvei (40%) para as classificadas como boas. O percentual de resistência aos antibióticos frente aos isolados de enterobactérias foi maior nas propriedades classificadas como boas. É extremamente importante o monitoramento por meio de cultura microbiana e antibiograma, favorecendo a correta escolha para o tratamento dos animais com redução da seleção de cepas resistentes.(AU)

Qualidade microbiológica de hortaliças comercializadas em diferentes restaurantes do tipo self-service na cidade do Recife-PE / Microbiological quality of vegetables selled in different self service restaurants in the city of Recife-PE

A falta de tempo para o preparo das refeições, devido ao ritmo de vida acelerado, incentiva a procura por serviços de alimentação fora de casa, em busca de alimentos práticos, de rápido consumo e nutritivos. Com o propósito de fazer uma alimentação mais saudável, cresceu a busca por restaurantes self-service, sendo a salada uma das opções usualmente mais consumida nesses estabelecimentos. Neste contexto, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade microbiológica de 20 amostras de hortaliças cruas servidas em restaurantes self-service da cidade do Recife-PE. As coletas foram realizadas no mês de fevereiro de 2021. As amostras foram submetidas às análises microbiológicas de coliformes totais, termotolerantes, Escherichia coli e Salmonella spp. Para coliformes totais os resultados variaram entre <3 a >1100 NMP/g. A presença de coliformes termotolerantes foi observada em 16 amostras, destas, uma apresentou contagem acima do estabelecido pela RDC 12/2001 se mostrando imprópria para o consumo. Não foi detectada a presença de Escherichia coli e Salmonella spp. nas amostras analisadas, estando estas de acordo com a RDC 331/2019. Estes resultados sugerem que, como houve a presença de coliformes nas amostras, mesmo estando a maioria dos valores em conformidade, é importante que haja maiores cuidados quanto à higienização e manipulação das hortaliças pelos estabelecimentos. Visando diminuir a carga microbiana presente nesses alimentos, portanto, é necessário que as boas práticas de manipulação sejam adotadas pelos restaurantes, para que se evite o aparecimento de doenças transmitidas por alimentos (DTAs).(AU)

The lack of time to prepare meals, due to a fast-paced contemporary lifestyle, encourages people to seek for alternative food services that are fast, practical, and nutritious. With the purpose of maintaining a healthy diet, the search for self-service restaurants has increased, being salad one of the usual options consumed in these restaurants. In this scenario, the purpose of the study was to investigate the microbiological quality of 20 raw vegetables samples served in restaurants in Recife ­ PE. The tests were carried out in February 2021. The samples were submitted to microbiological analysis of Total Coliform, thermotolerant Coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. For Total Coliform the results ranged from <3 to >1100 MPN/g. The presence of thermotolerant coliforms were observed in 16 samples, and 1 of them had a count above the established for the RDC 12/2001, proving to be unsuitable for consumption. The presence of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. were detected in none of the analyzed samples, being in accordance with the RDC 331/2019. These results suggest that, because of the presence of coliforms in the samples, even though most of values are in compliance, it is important to be more careful about hygiene and manipulation of vegetables by restaurants. Therefore, aiming to decrease the microbial load present in these foods, it is necessary that the good handling practices should be adopted in restaurants, to avoid the appearance of foodborne diseases.(AU)

Effects of Medium Chain Fatty Acid Supplementation in Broiler Diet on Microbiological Quality of Litter

In our experiment, coconut and palm oil supplementation was added to the diet of broiler chickens to prove the hypothesis that medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) can reduce the occurrence of potential pathogens (Clostridium perfingens, Coliform) in gut microflore and therefore improve bird welfare. Cobb 500 cockerels were divided in five groups. Control birds were fed commercial broiler diet, while birds in the four treatment group diets were supplemented with coconut, palm oil, or a combination of the two, respectively. As a positive control, sunflower oil supplementation was included in the diet of the fifth group. During the 28 days of the study (from 14 to 42 days of life), 5 samplings were scheduled, when excreta samples were taken from the litter to analyse total microbial count and the number of Clostridia, Coliforms, and Salmonella. According to the results of microbiological analysis, coconut oil supplementation led to the continuous decline of Clostridium perfringens numbers until they vanished by the end of the experimental period. A similar but faster decline was found as a result of palm oil and the combined (palm oil+coconut oil) treatment. However, the number of Coliforms and total microbial count changed only slightly by the end of the study. No Salmonella spp. was present in the samples throughout the experiment. Altogether, coconut and palm oil supplementation has a beneficial effect on the microbiological composition of poultry litter.(AU)

Effects of Medium Chain Fatty Acid Supplementation in Broiler Diet on Microbiological Quality of Litter

In our experiment, coconut and palm oil supplementation was added to the diet of broiler chickens to prove the hypothesis that medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) can reduce the occurrence of potential pathogens (Clostridium perfingens, Coliform) in gut microflore and therefore improve bird welfare. Cobb 500 cockerels were divided in five groups. Control birds were fed commercial broiler diet, while birds in the four treatment group diets were supplemented with coconut, palm oil, or a combination of the two, respectively. As a positive control, sunflower oil supplementation was included in the diet of the fifth group. During the 28 days of the study (from 14 to 42 days of life), 5 samplings were scheduled, when excreta samples were taken from the litter to analyse total microbial count and the number of Clostridia, Coliforms, and Salmonella. According to the results of microbiological analysis, coconut oil supplementation led to the continuous decline of Clostridium perfringens numbers until they vanished by the end of the experimental period. A similar but faster decline was found as a result of palm oil and the combined (palm oil+coconut oil) treatment. However, the number of Coliforms and total microbial count changed only slightly by the end of the study. No Salmonella spp. was present in the samples throughout the experiment. Altogether, coconut and palm oil supplementation has a beneficial effect on the microbiological composition of poultry litter.

Effect of bacterial co-culture and organic amendments on the bioremediation of hydrocarbons in a soil contaminated with spent engine oil

Bioenhancement of hydrocarbonoclastic microorganisms with suitable nutrients has a huge impact in achieving positive bioremediation of polluted environments. This study was conducted to assess the bio-enhancing effect of some organic amendments on Streptococcus pyogenes andEnterococcus faecalis co-culture with a view toremediating spent engine oil (SEO) contaminated soil. Top soil (1.5 kg) was autoclaved and thereafter contaminated with SEO at three levels. The contaminated soil was inoculated with bacterial co-culture (150 mL) and subsequently bioenhanced with compost,processed cocoa pod husk (CPH) and cow dung. The factorial experiment was laid out in completely randomized design. Concentrations of total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) and selected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were estimated on the first day, 5th week and 10th week of incubation. Results obtained show that bacterial co-culture bioenhanced with compost produced the most significant TPH reductions (1318 and 261 mg kg-1)on 10% SEO contaminated soil at the 5th and 10th week respectively (p<0.05). Again, bacterial co-culture bioenhanced with compost produced the most significant PAH reductions (65.9 and 55.8 mg kg-1) on 10% SEO contaminated soil at the 5th and 10th week respectively (p<0.05). The significant bioremediation capabilities exhibited by the bacterial co-culture bioenhanced with organic amendments in this study has made these bioremediation agents potential candidates in remediating soils impacted with petroleum hydrocarbons.(AU)

Whole-plant soybean ensiling with chitosan and homolactic microbial inoculant: fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and sheep intake and digestibility

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chitosan and homolactic microbial inoculant on fermentative losses, chemical composition, fermentative profile, and aerobic stability of whole-plant soybean silage (WPSS). Additionally, it was evaluated nutrients intake and digestibility of sheep fed increasing levels of WPSS. Thirty experimental silos were randomly allocated to one of the following treatments: 1) CON: control, WPSS without additives; 2) LPPA: WPSS with Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici; and 3) CHI: chitosan, WPSS with 5 g/kg of chitosan. Ten male sheep were used to evaluate increasing dietary levels of WPSS: 0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 g/kg of diet dry matter (DM). Additives increased silage lactic acid bacteria and decreased the count of mold and yeast, gas, and total losses. Silages treated with additives had lower pH, NH3-N, and ethanol concentrations and higher lactic and propionic acids relative to CON. LPPA-treated silos showed higher organic matter and non-fiber carbohydrates content than CHI-ones. Additives increased the aerobic stability of WPSS. The addition of WPSS in sheep diets linearly increased nutrients intake and digestibility. Chitosan and LPPA improve WPSS fermentation, aerobic stability, and nutritional value. The WPSS in substitution to Cynodon hay increases sheep feed intake and nutrients digestibility.

RESUMO Este estudo objetivou avaliar os efeitos da adição de quitosana e inoculante homolático sobre as perdas fermentativas, composição química, perfil fermentativo e estabilidade aeróbia da silagem de planta inteira de soja (SPIS). Em adição, foi avaliado o consumo e a digestibilidade de nutrientes em ovinos alimentados com dietas contendo níveis crescentes de SPIS. Trinta silos experimentais foram aleatoriamente alocados a um dos seguintes tratamentos: 1) CON: controle, SPIS sem aditivos; 2) LPPA: SPIS com Lactobacillus plantarum e Pediococcus acidilactici; e 3) QUI: quitosana, SPIS com 5 g/kg de quitosana. Dez ovinos machos foram usados para avaliar os níveis dietéticos de SPIS: 0, 200, 400, 600 e 800 g/kg da matéria seca (MS). Os aditivos aumentaram a contagem de bactérias láticas e reduziram a contagem de fungos e leveduras e as perdas fermentativas totais da SPIS. Silagens tratadas com aditivos tiveram menores pH, N-NH3 e etanol e maiores concentrações de ácido lático e propiônico, quando comparadas ao tratamento controle. Silos tratados com LPPA apresentaram maiores teores de matéria orgânica e carboidratos não fibrosos do que aqueles do tratamento QUI. Os aditivos aumentaram a estabilidade aeróbia da SPIS. A adição de SPIS na dieta de ovinos aumentou linearmente o consumo e a digestibilidade dos nutrientes. Quitosana e inoculante microbiano homolático melhoram a fermentação, estabilidade aeróbia e o valor nutricional da SPIS. A substituição de feno de Cynodon por SIPS aumenta o consumo e a digestibilidade dos nutrientes em ovinos.

Quality assessment of amazonian fish from fish farming stored on ice / Avaliação da qualidade de pescados amazônicos provenientes de piscicultura armazenados em gelo

The cultivation of natives Amazonian fish such as tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum), pirapitinga (Piaractus brachypomus), tambatinga (female, Colossoma macropomum X Piaractus brachypomus, male) and Pintando da Amazônia (female, Pseudoplatystoma sp. X Leiarius marmoratus, male) temmoratus, increased in recent years, making studies related to the validity of these foods after processing necessary. Therefore, the aimed of the study was to evaluate the sensory, microbiological (Staphylococcus coagulase positive count and presence of Salmonella spp.) and chemical (pH and Total Volatile Bases (TVB) quality of fresh gutted fish stored on ice. Nine specimens of each species were used, all cultivated in an excavated tanks. The fasting time ranged from 16 to 48 hours, depending on the species, the fish was slaughtered by means of cold shock. The fish was gutted and stored in the fish fridge. Sensory analysis was performed by a trained team available. For other analyses, it was sent to a laboratory specializing in food analysis. The sensory analysis of fresh eviscerated tambaqui was characteristic of the species until the 15th day of storage. Fresh eviscerated pirapitinga presented until the 16th day. The fresh eviscerated tambatinga hybrid was kept until the 14th day of storage. And for the Pintado da Amazônia, the organoleptic characteristics were presentable until the 12th day of storage. The microbiological and physical-chemical analyzes were in accordance with Brazilian legislation in all specimens of the analyzed species. It was observed that the longer the fasting period, there was a numerical increase in the pH of the fish meat.(AU)

O cultivo de peixes nativos da Amazônia como tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum), pirapitinga (Piaractus brachypomus), tambatinga (fêmea, Colossoma macropomum X Piaractus brachypomus, macho) e o pintado da Amazônia (fêmea, Pseudoplatystoma sp. X Leiarius marmoratus, macho) tem aumentado nos últimos anos, fazendo com que estudos relacionados a validade desses alimentos após o processamento sejam necessários. Por isso, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar os parâmetros de qualidade senso-rial, microbiológica (contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva e presença de Salmonella spp.) e química (pH e Bases Voláteis Totais (BVT)) deses pescados eviscerados frescos armazenados em gelo. Foram utilizados 9 exemplares de cada espécie, todos de origem de cultivo em viveiro escavado. O tempo de jejum variou de 16 a 48 horas, dependendo da espécie, o abate do pescado foi por meio de choque térmico. O pescado foi eviscerado e armazenado no frigorifico de pescado. Analise sensorial foi realizada por uma equipe treinada disponível. Para as demais análises foi enviado para um laboratório especializado em análises de alimentos. A análise sensorial do tambaqui eviscerado fresco estava característica da espécie até o 15°dia de estocagem. A pirapitinga evisce-rado fresco apresentou até o 16°dia. O hibrido tambatinga eviscerado fresco foi até o 14°dia de estocagem. E para o pintado da Amazônia as características organolépticas estavam apresentáveis até o dia 12° dia de armazenamento. As analises microbiológicas e físico químicas estavam de acordo com a legislação brasileira em todos os exemplares das espécies analisadas. Foi observado que quanto maior o tempo de jejum, houve um aumento numérico no pH da carne dos pescados.(AU)

Addition of calcitic seaweed in the diet of sows positively affects the number of live-born piglets and milk parameters

This study was conducted to assess the effects of maternal dietary calcitic seaweed (CSW) on performance and blood metabolites of sows, and on performance, blood metabolites, intestinal microbiota, and parameters of gastrointestinal tract and bone of litters. On d 21 (post-insemination), non-pregnant sows were removed from the trial, remaining 19 sows in control group (without CSW) and 16 sows receiving CSW. Then, a total of 35 sows were allocated in a randomized block design with two treatments: control diet with calcitic limestone plus dicalcium phosphate (CTL) or CTL plus 0.4% CSW. In gestation, sows were fed twice a day (07:00 and 15:00 h) to reach an intake of 2.5 kg animal−1 day−1 divided into two equal meals. On parturition day, sows were offered only 0.5 kg feed animal−1. Throughout lactation, sows were fed three times a day (≅7 kg animal−1 day−1). All diets were provided as mash. Results suggested that sows fed CTL had litters with lower body weight at birth compared with those fed CSW. Sows fed CSW had 14.28% more live-born piglets and lower stillborns. Piglets from sows fed CSW showed greater calcium concentration on d 14 after birth than those from sows fed CTL. Sows fed CSW showed better milk chemical composition and an increase of 27.16% in milk production compared with those fed CTL. Piglets from sows fed CSW had an increase in cecum content in the Enterobacteriaceae count. This study showed that adding 0.4% CSW in the diet of pregnant and lactating sows as an organic calcium source positively influences the number of live-born piglets and the percentage of stillborns. In addition, milk composition and production are also improved without affecting piglets' biological response.(AU)

Whole-plant soybean ensiling with chitosan and homolactic microbial inoculant: fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and sheep intake and digestibility / Ensilagem de planta inteira de soja com quitosana e inoculante microbiano homolático: perfil fermentativo, estabilidade aeróbia e consumo e digestibilidade em ovinos

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chitosan and homolactic microbial inoculant on fermentative losses, chemical composition, fermentative profile, and aerobic stability of whole-plant soybean silage (WPSS). Additionally, it was evaluated nutrients intake and digestibility of sheep fed increasing levels of WPSS. Thirty experimental silos were randomly allocated to one of the following treatments: 1) CON: control, WPSS without additives; 2) LPPA: WPSS with Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici; and 3) CHI: chitosan, WPSS with 5 g/kg of chitosan. Ten male sheep were used to evaluate increasing dietary levels of WPSS: 0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 g/kg of diet dry matter (DM). Additives increased silage lactic acid bacteria and decreased the count of mold and yeast, gas, and total losses. Silages treated with additives had lower pH, NH3-N, and ethanol concentrations and higher lactic and propionic acids relative to CON. LPPA-treated silos showed higher organic matter and non-fiber carbohydrates content than CHI-ones. Additives increased the aerobic stability of WPSS. The addition of WPSS in sheep diets linearly increased nutrients intake and digestibility. Chitosan and LPPA improve WPSS fermentation, aerobic stability, and nutritional value. The WPSS in substitution to Cynodon hay increases sheep feed intake and nutrients digestibility.

Este estudo objetivou avaliar os efeitos da adição de quitosana e inoculante homolático sobre as perdas fermentativas, composição química, perfil fermentativo e estabilidade aeróbia da silagem de planta inteira de soja (SPIS). Em adição, foi avaliado o consumo e a digestibilidade de nutrientes em ovinos alimentados com dietas contendo níveis crescentes de SPIS. Trinta silos experimentais foram aleatoriamente alocados a um dos seguintes tratamentos: 1) CON: controle, SPIS sem aditivos; 2) LPPA: SPIS com Lactobacillus plantarum e Pediococcus acidilactici; e 3) QUI: quitosana, SPIS com 5 g/kg de quitosana. Dez ovinos machos foram usados para avaliar os níveis dietéticos de SPIS: 0, 200, 400, 600 e 800 g/kg da matéria seca (MS). Os aditivos aumentaram a contagem de bactérias láticas e reduziram a contagem de fungos e leveduras e as perdas fermentativas totais da SPIS. Silagens tratadas com aditivos tiveram menores pH, N-NH3 e etanol e maiores concentrações de ácido lático e propiônico, quando comparadas ao tratamento controle. Silos tratados com LPPA apresentaram maiores teores de matéria orgânica e carboidratos não fibrosos do que aqueles do tratamento QUI. Os aditivos aumentaram a estabilidade aeróbia da SPIS. A adição de SPIS na dieta de ovinos aumentou linearmente o consumo e a digestibilidade dos nutrientes. Quitosana e inoculante microbiano homolático melhoram a fermentação, estabilidade aeróbia e o valor nutricional da SPIS. A substituição de feno de Cynodon por SIPS aumenta o consumo e a digestibilidade dos nutrientes em ovinos.

Whole-plant soybean ensiling with chitosan and homolactic microbial inoculant: fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and sheep intake and digestibility / Ensilagem de planta inteira de soja com quitosana e inoculante microbiano homolático: perfil fermentativo, estabilidade aeróbia e consumo e digestibilidade em ovinos

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chitosan and homolactic microbial inoculant on fermentative losses, chemical composition, fermentative profile, and aerobic stability of whole-plant soybean silage (WPSS). Additionally, it was evaluated nutrients intake and digestibility of sheep fed increasing levels of WPSS. Thirty experimental silos were randomly allocated to one of the following treatments: 1) CON: control, WPSS without additives; 2) LPPA: WPSS with Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici; and 3) CHI: chitosan, WPSS with 5 g/kg of chitosan. Ten male sheep were used to evaluate increasing dietary levels of WPSS: 0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 g/kg of diet dry matter (DM). Additives increased silage lactic acid bacteria and decreased the count of mold and yeast, gas, and total losses. Silages treated with additives had lower pH, NH3-N, and ethanol concentrations and higher lactic and propionic acids relative to CON. LPPA-treated silos showed higher organic matter and non-fiber carbohydrates content than CHI-ones. Additives increased the aerobic stability of WPSS. The addition of WPSS in sheep diets linearly increased nutrients intake and digestibility. Chitosan and LPPA improve WPSS fermentation, aerobic stability, and nutritional value. The WPSS in substitution to Cynodon hay increases sheep feed intake and nutrients digestibility.(AU)

Este estudo objetivou avaliar os efeitos da adição de quitosana e inoculante homolático sobre as perdas fermentativas, composição química, perfil fermentativo e estabilidade aeróbia da silagem de planta inteira de soja (SPIS). Em adição, foi avaliado o consumo e a digestibilidade de nutrientes em ovinos alimentados com dietas contendo níveis crescentes de SPIS. Trinta silos experimentais foram aleatoriamente alocados a um dos seguintes tratamentos: 1) CON: controle, SPIS sem aditivos; 2) LPPA: SPIS com Lactobacillus plantarum e Pediococcus acidilactici; e 3) QUI: quitosana, SPIS com 5 g/kg de quitosana. Dez ovinos machos foram usados para avaliar os níveis dietéticos de SPIS: 0, 200, 400, 600 e 800 g/kg da matéria seca (MS). Os aditivos aumentaram a contagem de bactérias láticas e reduziram a contagem de fungos e leveduras e as perdas fermentativas totais da SPIS. Silagens tratadas com aditivos tiveram menores pH, N-NH3 e etanol e maiores concentrações de ácido lático e propiônico, quando comparadas ao tratamento controle. Silos tratados com LPPA apresentaram maiores teores de matéria orgânica e carboidratos não fibrosos do que aqueles do tratamento QUI. Os aditivos aumentaram a estabilidade aeróbia da SPIS. A adição de SPIS na dieta de ovinos aumentou linearmente o consumo e a digestibilidade dos nutrientes. Quitosana e inoculante microbiano homolático melhoram a fermentação, estabilidade aeróbia e o valor nutricional da SPIS. A substituição de feno de Cynodon por SIPS aumenta o consumo e a digestibilidade dos nutrientes em ovinos.(AU)

Assessment of hematological parameters and uterine hemodynamic indices in bitches with pyometra

Background: Pyometra is defined as chronic purulent inflammation of the uterus that causes changes in hematologicaland biochemical parameters. The disease is characterized with bacterial infection and pus accumulation in the uterus.Transabdominal B-mode ultrasonography provides easy and certain diagnosis of this disease. The hemodynamic changesin pyometra are evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography. The aim of the study is to determine the changes in hematologicalparameters and Doppler indices in bitches with pyometra, diestrus healthy bitches and evaluate the relationship betweenhematological parameters and hemodynamic indices within the both groups.Materials, Methods & Results: A total number of 27 bitches were enrolled in the study. The healthy diestrus bitches (groupH; n = 7) aged 6.2 ± 1.14 years, weighted 14.57 ± 3.75 kg. The bitches with pyometra (group PYO; n = 20) aged 9.1 ± 0.62years and weighted 17.65 ± 2.60 kg. Before all bitches had ovariohisterectomy, hematological analyses were performed.Transabdominal ultrasonography (USG) was performed with a 6.6 MHz convex transducer. The widest cross-sectionaluterine diameter (UD), wall thickness of uterine horns (UWT) and presence of luminal content were evaluated. Diameterof the uterine artery (DUA) was measured on a mapped color image using the USG software program. The examinationwas carried out with pulsed-wave Doppler USG to characterize the waveform of the uterine artery (UA). Anechogenic areasin uterine lumen, increase in UD and UWT were observed in group PYO. All cases in group PYO had luminal content inboth uterine horns ranging from 1.2 to 5.6 cm. The DUAs were measured in group H and in group PYO as 1.75 ± 0.03mm, 1.94 ± 0.08 mm; respectively (P < 0.05). The PI and RI values of group PYO were lower than group H (P < 0.001).Hematological analysis results showed that...

Assessment of hematological parameters and uterine hemodynamic indices in bitches with pyometra

Background: Pyometra is defined as chronic purulent inflammation of the uterus that causes changes in hematologicaland biochemical parameters. The disease is characterized with bacterial infection and pus accumulation in the uterus.Transabdominal B-mode ultrasonography provides easy and certain diagnosis of this disease. The hemodynamic changesin pyometra are evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography. The aim of the study is to determine the changes in hematologicalparameters and Doppler indices in bitches with pyometra, diestrus healthy bitches and evaluate the relationship betweenhematological parameters and hemodynamic indices within the both groups.Materials, Methods & Results: A total number of 27 bitches were enrolled in the study. The healthy diestrus bitches (groupH; n = 7) aged 6.2 ± 1.14 years, weighted 14.57 ± 3.75 kg. The bitches with pyometra (group PYO; n = 20) aged 9.1 ± 0.62years and weighted 17.65 ± 2.60 kg. Before all bitches had ovariohisterectomy, hematological analyses were performed.Transabdominal ultrasonography (USG) was performed with a 6.6 MHz convex transducer. The widest cross-sectionaluterine diameter (UD), wall thickness of uterine horns (UWT) and presence of luminal content were evaluated. Diameterof the uterine artery (DUA) was measured on a mapped color image using the USG software program. The examinationwas carried out with pulsed-wave Doppler USG to characterize the waveform of the uterine artery (UA). Anechogenic areasin uterine lumen, increase in UD and UWT were observed in group PYO. All cases in group PYO had luminal content inboth uterine horns ranging from 1.2 to 5.6 cm. The DUAs were measured in group H and in group PYO as 1.75 ± 0.03mm, 1.94 ± 0.08 mm; respectively (P < 0.05). The PI and RI values of group PYO were lower than group H (P < 0.001).Hematological analysis results showed that...(AU)

Effect of a Combination of Propionic-Acetic Acid on Body Weight, Relative Weight of Some Organs, Lactic Acid Bacteria and Intestinal pH of Neonatal Broilers

This study was designed to determine the effect of a combination of propionic-acetic acid on body weight, the relative weight of some organs, lactic acid bacteria, and intestinal pH of neonatal broilers. A total of 60 1-day-old Ross 308® broiler chickens were randomly placed in metabolic cages to two treatments, three replicates, and ten birds per replicates. The treatments consisted of a control diet (CD) and CD + 0.03% of propionic acid and acetic acid in the drinking water at a rate of 4 ml/L of water. The combination of organic acids depressed the body weight in neonatal broilers (p 0.05) and increased the relative weight (p 0.05) of gizzard, proventriculus, small intestine, and liver; also acidified the cecum with a significant decrease (p 0.05) of the pH. Also, these organic acids increased (p 0.05) the count of green bacilli with a white halo in the small intestine and decreased (p 0.05) the proliferation of irregular flat green bacilli in the cecum, although for both intestinal portions, the total lactic acid bacteria count was not different (p>0.05) between treatments. The combined use in the diet and drinking water of the propionic and acetic organic acids, respectively, reduced the bodyweight of neonatal broilers (10 days) and the cecal pH, as well as modified the relative weights of some digestive organs and the growth of some morphological groups of lactic acid bacteria.(AU)