Pathogenic Potential of Coagulase-Positive Staphylococcus Strains Isolated from Aviary Capercaillies and Free-Living Birds in Southeastern Poland.

The aim of the study was to determine the occurrence and characteristics of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus strains in the carcasses of wild birds and aviary capercaillies in Southeastern Poland. In total, samples taken from 333 birds were examined. The material consisted of swabs from the internal organs of dead birds (heart, liver, and spleen), the tarsal joints, and mucous membranes (conjunctiva and palatine fissure), as well as from unhatched embryos. The isolated Staphylococcus strains were tested for sensitivity to nine antimicrobial agents and the presence of selected virulence genes. An analysis of the similarity of isolates within species was performed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The result indicates that coagulase-positive strains accounted for 5.7% and belonged to the species: Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, and Staphylococcus delphini. Among isolated strains, 15.8% were multidrug resistant. The most frequently detected virulence genes were hla in 58% of isolates and hlb and hld in 47.4% of isolates. The results of multiplex PCR showed the presence of genes responsible for the production of enterotoxins C, B, E, and J, in single isolates. It can be concluded that coagulase-positive Staphylococcus strains accounted for a small percentage of staphylococci isolated from free-living birds in the study area. The occurrence of multidrug-resistant coagulase-positive Staphylococcus strains in aviary capercaillies suggests that they play a role in the transmission and spread of resistant strains into the environment. Free-living birds may also be a reservoir of enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus strains.

Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) as a specific and underappreciated reservoir of resistant and virulent coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp. strains.

The aim of the study was to analyze the presence of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus in swabs collected from red foxes and to characterize the drug resistance and virulence of these bacteria. In total, 415 rectal and oral swabs were collected, and coagulase-positive strains of S. pseudintermedius (n = 104) and S. aureus (n = 27) were identified using multiplex-PCR and MALDI TOF MS. Subsequent analyses showed the highest phenotypic resistance of the strains to penicillin (16.8%) and tetracycline (30.5%) confirmed by the presence of the blaZ, tetM, and tetK genes. Slightly lower resistance to erythromycin (6.9%), clindamycin (9.2%), gentamicin, streptogramins, rifampicin, nitrofurantoin, and sulphamethoxazol/trimetophrim was exhibited by single strains. Several virulence genes in a few different combinations were detected in S. aureus; LukE-LukD, and seB were the most frequent genes (37%), LukE-LukD, seB, and seC were detected in 11% of the strains, and PVL, etA, etB, and tst genes were present in two or single strains. The results of our research have confirmed that the red fox is an underestimated reservoir of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus strains, with approximately 50% of carriers of at least one resistance gene. In turn, 88.8% of the S. aureus strains had one or more virulence genes; therefore, this species of wildlife animals should be monitored as part of epidemiological surveillance.

Microbiological evaluation of pasty and soft ice cream / Avaliação microbiológica de sorvetes pastosos e expressos / Evaluación microbiológica de helados pastosos y suaves

Ice cream is susceptible to contamination by handling and bad hygiene conditions during both the storage process and the fractioning for sale, and once contaminated, it can cause diseases. The purpose of this survey was to evaluate the microbiological quality of ice cream sold in bulk, of pasty and soft types, offered for consuming. Thirty samples of pasty ice cream sold in bulk, and thirty samples of soft ice cream were analyzed through the counting of thermotolerant coliforms, coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp., and searching for the presence of Salmonella spp. During the study, a total of ten (33%) samples of pasty ice cream and five (16%) samples of soft ice cream were found to be beyond the limits established by the Brazilian law. Salmonella spp. was found in four samples (6.7%). These results are an alert for the need of greater attention to the microbiological quality of ice cream in order to ensure the safety of its consumers.(AU)

Os sorvetes são suscetíveis à contaminação pela manipulação e más condições higiênicas durante o processamento, armazenamento e do fracionamento para venda, uma vez contaminados podem causar doenças. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a qualidade microbiológica de sorvetes, vendidos a granel, pastosos e expressos, oferecidos para consumo. Trinta amostras de sorvete pastoso, vendido a granel, e trinta amostras de sorvete expresso foram analisadas realizando-se contagem de coliformes termotolerantes, Staphylococcus spp. coagulase-positiva e pesquisando-se a presença de Salmonella spp. Foram detectadas dez (33%) amostras de sorvete pastoso e cinco (16%) amostras de sorvete expresso fora dos limites estabelecidos pela legislação brasileira. Salmonella spp. foi encontrado em quatro amostras (6,7%). Esses resultados alertam para a necessidade de uma maior atenção à qualidade microbiológica dos sorvetes, a fim de garantir a segurança do consumidor.(AU)

Los helados son susceptibles a la contaminación por manipulación y malas condiciones higiénicas durante el procesamiento, almacenamiento y fraccionamiento para venta, una vez contaminados pueden causar enfermedades. El objetivo de este estudio ha sido evaluar la calidad microbiológica de helados vendidos a granel, pastosos y suaves, ofrecidos para el consumo. Se analizaron treinta muestras de helados pastosos vendidos a granel, y treinta muestras de helados suaves, realizándose el conteo de coliformes termotolerantes, Staphylococcus spp. coagulase positiva e investigándose la presencia de Salmonella spp. Se detectaron diez (33%) muestras de helado pastoso y cinco (16%) muestras de helado blando fuera de los límites establecidos por la legislación brasileña. Salmonella spp. se encontró en cuatro muestras (6,7%). Esos resultados destacan la necesidad de una mayor atención a la calidad microbiológica de los helados, con el fin de garantizar la seguridad del consumidor.(AU)

Coagulase-positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus circulating in clinical mastitic goats in Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Staphylococcus aureus is argued as one of the principal organisms responsible for mammary gland infection in lactating goats, causing both clinical and subclinical mastitis. Being highly zoonotic potential, pathogen emergence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) has a significant clinical impact on treatment and management of clinical mastitis. We conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate the prevalence of coagulase-positive S. aureus (CoPS), antimicrobial resistance profile of Staphylococcus spp., prevalence of MRSA, and association between different clinical parameters with CoPS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 67 clinical mastitic goats were sampled based on clinical examination and California mastitis test. Standard bacteriological methods were performed to isolate and identify Staphylococcus spp. CoPS were confirmed by nuc gene using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All staphylococcal isolates were further examined for antimicrobial susceptibility testing by disk diffusion method. MRSA was confirmed based on mecA gene-based PCR. RESULTS: Here, 49 (73.13%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 61.41-82.35) samples were positive for Staphylococcus spp., of which 17 (34.69%; 95% CI, 22.88-48.73) isolates were CoPS and rest of the isolates (32; 65.30%; 95% CI, 51.27-77.12) were identified as coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp. (coagulase-negative staphylococci [CNS]). Both, CoPS and CNS isolates displayed the highest resistance against tetracycline (76.47% and 75%, respectively) and oxacillin (70.58% and 68.75%, respectively). Notably, all staphylococcal isolates were multidrug-resistant (showed resistance to ≥3 classes of antimicrobials). mecA gene was found in 6 (8.96%; 95% CI, 3.84-18.52) CoPS isolates indicating MRSA strains. Among different clinical parameters, presence of high body temperature (p<0.05), firm udder consistency (p<0.01), bloodstained milk (p<0.00), and pus in milk (p<0.00) were significantly associated with the presence of CoPS in mastitic caprine milk. CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of MRSA isolated from clinical caprine mastitis cases in Bangladesh. The findings of this study would help in cautious selection as well as administration of antimicrobials for therapeutic management of mastitic goats.

Análise microbiológica de fast foods comercializados por ambulantes no centro da cidade de Natal, RN / Microbiological analysis of fast foods marketed by street vendors in the city center of Natal, RN

[{"text": "O hábito de realizar refeições fora\r\ndo domicílio, expõe os consumidores\r\nao risco de contraírem doenças\r\nveiculadas por alimentos; tendo em\r\nvista tal situação, o presente estudo\r\nteve como objetivo desenvolver uma\r\nanálise microbiológica dos fast foods\r\nmais consumidos. Foram selecionados\r\ncinco amostras de cada alimento\r\ntotalizando 25, dentre estes estão coxinha,\r\ncachorro-quente, batata-frita,\r\npastel de forno e espetinho de carne,\r\ntodos estes alimentos colhidos em\r\nembalagens esterilizadas e encaminhadas\r\npara o laboratório de microbiologia\r\nda Universidade Potiguar,\r\nonde foram realizadas análises microbiológicas\r\npara Staphylococcus\r\ncoagulase positiva, coliformes totais\r\ne termotolerantes, e Salmonella sp.\r\nA metodologia empregada seguiu os\r\npadrões microbiológicos recomendados\r\npela resolução RDC nº 12 da\r\nAgência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária\r\nde acordo com as normas da\r\nAmerican Public Health Association.\r\nOs resultados obtidos mostraram que\r\n80% das coxinhas, 40% dos pastéis\r\nde forno, 60% das batatas-fritas e\r\n60% de cachorros-quentes, com exceção\r\ndo espetinho de carne, apresentaram\r\ncoliformes totais; quanto à\r\ncontagem de Staphylococcus aureus\r\ntodos superaram o limite máximo\r\ndeterminado pela legislação e todas\r\nas amostras apresentaram resultados\r\nnegativos para a pesquisa de Salmonella\r\nsp. Dessa forma, conclui-se que\r\nhá necessidade de aperfeiçoamento\r\nnos cuidados e nas condições de produção,\r\narmazenamento e comercialização\r\ndos alimentos analisados, bem\r\ncomo, há necessidade de inspeção\r\neficaz por parte dos órgãos de fiscalização.(AU)", "_i": "pt"}]

Optimized universal protocol for electroporation of both coagulase-positive and -negative Staphylococci.

Electroporation is a common technique necessary for genomic manipulation of Staphylococci. However, because this technique has too low efficiency to be applied to some Staphylococcal species and strains, especially to coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CNS) isolates, basic researches on these clinically important Staphylococci are limited. Here we report on the optimization of electroporation parameters and conditions as well as on the generation of a universal protocol that can be efficiently applicable to both CNS and Coagulase-positive Staphylococci (CPS). This protocol could generate transformants of clinical Staphylococcus epidermidis isolate, with an efficiency of up to 1400 CFU/µg of plasmid DNA. Transformants of 12 other clinically important Staphylococcal species, including CNS and CPS, were also generated with this protocol. To our knowledge, this is the first report on successful electroporation in nine these Staphylococcal species.

Good hygienic practices and identification of contamination sources in Hotel Food and Beverage sector

This study aimed to evaluate the application of good practices in hotel restaurants in Southern Brazil, relate these practices to the microbiological quality of the food offered, in addition to identifying contamination sources. The food and beverage sector of four hotels was evaluated by means of a checklist based on the Resolution 216/2014 of Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária and microbiological analyzes. Surface, utensil, equipment and handlers' hand samples were collected for coagulase positive Staphylococcus and thermotolerant coliform count. Isolates obtained from these culture counts were compared by band profiles obtained by rep-PCR. According to non-conformities observed, only one hotel was rated as excellent in good practices avaliation. Some microbiological analysis exceeded the allowed limit for the analyzed microorganism count, revealing failure in the hygiene-sanitary process. Genetic similarities between some food samples and handlers' hands and utensils were identified. These results showed inadequacies in the process of food care and handling which may compromise the quality of food offered to custumers.(AU)

Comparison phenotypic and genotypic identification of Staphylococcus species isolated from bovine mastitis / Comparação da identificação fenotípica e genotípica de espécies do gênero Staphylococcus isoladas de mastite bovina

In addition to Staphylococcus aureus nowadays other coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS), earlier considered of minor importance, are now accepted as relevant pathogens for humans and animals. The involvement of these microorganisms in bovine mastitis etiology and the possibility their transmission through milk to humans justify the requirement of developing reliable methods for identification of the most frequent species among them. The purpose of this study was to compare the phenotypic techniques with the genotypic method carried out by sequencing of the rpoB gene in identification of several species of the genus Staphylococcus isolated from bovine mastitis. A total of 300 staphylococci isolates of bovine mastitis cases from several Brazilian dairy herds were studied by phenotypic and genotypic techniques, respectively: 150 CoPS and 150 CoNS strains. A total of 18 CoNS different species and 4 CoPS species were identified. Among the CoNS the following species were recognized: 48 (32%) Staphylococcus warneri, 22(15%) S. epidermidis, 20(13%) S. hyicus, 10(7%) S. xylosus, 7(5%) S. haemolyticus, 6(4%) S. simulans, 6(4%) S. schleiferi subsp schleiferi, 6(4%) S. hominis, 5(3%) S. pasteuri, 4(2.7%) S. cohnii, 3(2%) S. saprophyticus subsp. saprophyticus 3(2%) S. chromogenes 3(2%) S. sciuri, 2(1%) S. saccharolyticus, 2(1%) S. lugdunensi, 1(0,7%) S. auricularis, 1(70%) S. saprophyticus subsp. bovis, 1(0.7%) S. capitis. And among the 150 CoPS were identified respectively: 105 (70%) S. aureus, 21(14%), S. hyicus, 19(13%) S. intermedius e 5(3%) S. schleiferi subsp coagulans. Considering the 150 CoNS isolates, the identifications performed by phenotypic and genotypic tests presented 96.7% of concordance, kappa coefficient of agreement = 0.933, SE (standard error) of kappa=0.021 (95% confidence interval: 0.893 to 0.974), Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) = 0.9977, (confidence interval 95%: 0.9938 a 0.9992) and in relation to 150 CPS isolates it was detected an agreement of 98.7%, kappa = 0.960, SE of kappa = 0.016, (95% confidence interval: 0.929 to 0.992) Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) = 0.9994 (95% confidence interval: 0.9681 to 1.0000). The verified agreement strength between the identification methods can be considered as excellent. These results assure that according to laboratory resources any of them will be suitable to perform the staphylococci identification.(AU)

Além de Staphylococcus aureus atualmente outros estafilococos coagulase positiva (SCP) e estafilococos coagulase-negativos (SCN), anteriormente considerados de menor relevância, são reconhecidos como importantes patógenos para humanos e animais. O envolvimento desses micro-organismos na etiologia da mastite bovina e a possibilidade da sua transmissão através do leite aos humanos justifica a utilização de métodos confiáveis para a identificação das espécies mais frequentes. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar as técnicas fenotípicas com o método genotípico realizada por sequenciamento do gene rpoB na identificação de espécies do gênero Staphylococcus spp. isolados de mastite bovina. Um total de 300 estafilococos isolados de casos de mastite bovina em diferentes rebanhos leiteiros brasileiros foram estudados por técnicas fenotípicas e genotípicas, respectivamente: 150 linhagens de SCP e 150 linhagens de SCN. Foram identificados um total de 18 espécies de SCN e 4 espécies SCP. Entre os SCN as seguintes espécies identificadas: 48 (32%) Staphylococcus warneri, 22 (15%) S. epidermidis, 20 (13%) S. hyicus, 10 (7%) S. xylosus, 7 (5%) S. haemolyticus, 6 (4%) S. simulans, 6 (4%) S. schleiferi subsp schleiferi, 6 (4%) S. hominis, 5 (3%) S. pasteuri, 4 (2,7%) S. cohnii, 3 (2%) S. saprophyticus subsp. saprophyticus, 3 (2%) S. chromogenes, 3 (2%) S. sciuri, 2 (1%) S. saccharolyticus, 2 (1%) S. lugdunensi, 1 (0,7%) S. auricularis, 1 (70 %) S. saprophyticus subsp. bovis, 1 (0,7%) S. capitis. E entre as 150 SCP foram identificados, 105 (70%) S. aureus, 21 (14%), S. hyicus, 19 (13%) S. intermedius e 5 (3%) S. schleiferi subsp coagulans. Considerando-se os 150 SCN isolados, as identificações realizadas por testes fenotípicos e genotípicos apresentaram 96,7% de concordância, coeficiente de concordância kappa = 0,933, SE (erro padrão) de kappa = 0,021 (95% intervalo de confiança: 0,893-0,974), coeficiente de correlação de Pearson (r) = 0,9977, (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,9938 a 0,9992) e em relação a 150 SCP isolados foi observado uma concordância de 98,7%, kappa = 0,960, sE de kappa = 0,016, (95% de intervalo de confiança: 0,929 a 0,992) coeficiente de correlação de Pearson (r) = 0,9994 (95% intervalo de confiança: 0,9681-1,0000). A correlação entre os métodos de identificação pode ser considerada como excelente. Esses resultados demonstraram que de acordo com os recursos disponíveis no laboratório, poderia ser utilizada qualquer uma das metodologias.(AU)

Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus isolated from wildlife: Identification, molecular characterization and evaluation of resistance profiles with focus on a methicillin-resistant strain.

The aim of the study was molecular analysis of coagulase-positive isolates of Staphylococcus bacteria obtained from wild animals and evaluation of their resistance to antimicrobial agents. A total of 76 rectal swabs were taken from wild animals. The species of the Staphylococcus isolates was determined by MALDI TOF MS, susceptibility to antimicrobials was evaluated by phenotypic and molecular methods, epidemiological analysis (ADSRRS-fingerprinting) was also carried out. MRSA isolate was typed by MLST and spa-typing. The animals tested, were carriers (n=38) of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus (S. aureus, S. pseudintermedius and S. delphini B). Analyzed isolates were resistant to 1 or 2 antimicrobials, which was confirmed by the presence of genes (blaZ, ermA, ermB, msrA, tetK and tetM). A multi-drug resistant and methicillin-resistant isolate of S. aureus was obtained as well (MRSA, ST8, t1635, PVL-positive and ACME-negative). The ADSRRS-fingerprinting method enabled interspecific and intraspecific differentiation of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus isolates, revealing a certain degree of correlation between the species of the isolate, and the degree of similarity between the isolates. The presence of resistance genes in 13% (5/38) of the isolates obtained from wild animals, including one methicillin-resistant isolate, is relatively small in comparison to the degree of colonization by resistant strains in humans, livestock or pets. Nevertheless, due to the possibility of contact between wild animals, domestic animals and humans, transmission of resistant strains is possible, as suggested by our isolation of a MRSA strain typed as ST8 and specific spa type t1635, which had previously been isolated exclusively from humans.

Microbiological quality of Brazilian artisanal cheese and fermented sausages / Qualidade microbiológica de queijos e salames artesanais brasileiros

Cheeses and sausages are ready-to-eat foods, and the products prepared by artisanal processare susceptible to microbial contamination. Few studies on the quality of foods from different Brazilian regions have been done. In this context, this study aimed at evaluating the microbiological quality of 32 cheese and 13 sausages samples purchased from artisanal food stores or producers markets located in the metropolitan areas of 10 capital cities of Brazilian states. Microbiological analyses were performed to determine the counts of microbial contamination indicators, including Escherichia coli and coagulase-positive staphylococci, as well as for evaluating the presence of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. using bacteriological methods.E. coli was detected in 50.0 % of samples, coagulase-positive staphylococci in 34.4 %, and Salmonella spp. in 6.3 % of cheese samples. In fermented sausage samples, coagulase-positive staphylococci were isolated from 23.1 % samples and Salmonella spp. from 7.7 %. According tothe Brazilian Sanitary Legislation, 63.0 % of cheese samples and 23.0 % of artisanal fermentedsausage samples from the metropolitan areas of 10 Brazilian capital cities were unsuitable for consumption, indicating the importance of conducting the close monitoring of these foodsand the application of the effective measures for preventing food-borne outbreaks.

Queijos e salames são alimentos prontos para consumo e quando artesanalmente produzidos são suscetíveis à contaminação microbiana. A importância deste estudo em dez capitais brasileiras deve-se à carência de dados obtidos simultaneamente abrangendo-se diferentes regiões do Brasil. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi de avaliar a qualidade microbiológica de 32 amostras de queijos e 13 de salames artesanais, adquiridos em casas de produtos artesanais ou feiras de produtores nas regiões metropolitanas de dez capitais brasileiras. Análises microbiológicas com as respectivas contagens de indicadores de contaminação microbiana, Escherichia coli e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva, e a pesquisa de Listeria monocytogenes e Salmonella spp. foram realizadas por meio de métodos bacteriológicos. Nas amostras de queijos foram observadas E. coli em 50,0 %, Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em 34,4 % e Salmonella spp. em 6,3 %. Nas amostras de salames foram detectadas Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em 23,1 % e Salmonella spp. em 7,7 %. De acordo com a legislação sanitária brasileira, 63,0 % das amostras de queijos e 23,0 % das amostras de salames artesanais coletadas da Região Metropolitana de dez capitais brasileiras estavam impróprias para o consumo, o que demonstra a importância de realizar monitoramento próximo e efetivo para prevenir surtos de origem alimentar.

Avaliação higiênico-sanitária de estabelecimentos comerciais e análise de micro-organismos indicadores em amostras de carne bovina (coxão mole) in natura comercializadas em mercados públicos / Sanitary inspection of commercial establishments and analysisof the microorganism indicators in the bovine pad topside meatsamples sold in public markets

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar as condições higinicos-sanitárias dos mercados públicos dos municípios da microrregião de Cametá, estado do Pará, e avaliar as características microbiológicas das carnes comercializadas nestes locais por meio da pesquisa de micro-organismos indicadores. Sessenta e quatro amostras de carne bovina in natura foram coletadas e analisadas por meio da determinação do Número Mais Provável de coliformes a 35 oC e 45 oC e contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva, de acordo com a Instrução Normativa no 62 de 2003 do Ministério da Agricultura Pecuária e Abastecimento. Paralelamente, as condições higiênico-sanitárias foram avaliadas aplicando-se checklist. Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram que todos os locais avaliados apresentaram condições higiênico-sanitárias insatisfatórias, sendo classificados como deficientes. As amostras apresentaram Número Mais Provável de coliformes a 35ºC e 45ºC que variaram de 64 NMP/g a >1100NMP/g, e contagens de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva entre 1,8 x 10² UFC/g e 2,3 x 105 UFC/g.Os estabelecimentos avaliados não atenderam às exigências mínimas de higiene e sanidade, e a carnecomercializada apresentou elevada contagem de micro-organismos indicadores.

The aim of this study was to analyze the sanitary conditions of public markets located in theCametá micro-region, state of Pará, and to assess the microbiological condition of the meat sold inthese locations through the determination of microorganism indicators. For this purpose, 64 fresh beefsamples were collected and the determination of the Most Probable Number of coliforms at 35 oC and45 oC and coagulase positive Staphylococcus counts were performed, according to the Instruction no 62,2003 of the Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Supply. In addition, the hygienic and sanitary conditionsof the public markets were evaluated by applying a checklist. The found results showed that all of theevaluated public markets indicated poor hygienic sanitary condition, and they were ranked as deficient.The samples showed the Most Probable Number of coliforms at 35 oC and 45 oC ranging from 64 MPN/gto >1100NMP/g, and coagulase positive Staphylococcus counts between 1.8 x 10² CFU/g and2.3 x 105 CFU/g. The evaluated food markets did not meet the minimum requirements of hygiene andsanitation and the sold meat samples showed high count of microorganisms indicators.

Microbiological quality of Brazilian artisanal cheese and fermented sausages / Qualidade microbiológica de queijos e salames artesanais brasileiros

Cheeses and sausages are ready-to-eat foods, and the products prepared by artisanal process are susceptible to microbial contamination. Few studies on the quality of foods from different Brazilian regions have been done. In this context, this study aimed at evaluating the microbiological quality of 32 cheese and 13 sausages samples purchased from artisanal food stores or producers markets located in the metropolitan areas of 10 capital cities of Brazilian states. Microbiological analyses were performed to determine the counts of microbial contamination indicators, including Escherichia coli and coagulase-positive staphylococci, as well as for evaluating the presence of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. using bacteriological methods. E. coli was detected in 50.0 % of samples, coagulase-positive staphylococci in 34.4 %, and Salmonella spp. in 6.3 % of cheese samples. In fermented sausage samples, coagulase-positive staphylococci were isolated from 23.1 % samples and Salmonella spp. from 7.7 %. According to the Brazilian Sanitary Legislation, 63.0 % of cheese samples and 23.0 % of artisanal fermented sausage samples from the metropolitan areas of 10 Brazilian capital cities were unsuitable for consumption, indicating the importance of conducting the close monitoring of these foods and the application of the effective measures for preventing food-borne outbreaks.

Queijos e salames são alimentos prontos para consumo e quando artesanalmente produzidos são suscetíveis à contaminação microbiana. A importância deste estudo em dez capitais brasileiras deve-se à carência de dados obtidos simultaneamente abrangendo-se diferentes regiões do Brasil. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi de avaliar a qualidade microbiológica de 32 amostras de queijos e 13 de salames artesanais, adquiridos em casas de produtos artesanais ou feiras de produtores nas regiões metropolitanas de dez capitais brasileiras. Análises microbiológicas com as respectivas contagens de indicadores de contaminação microbiana, Escherichia coli e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva, e a pesquisa de Listeria monocytogenes e Salmonella spp. foram realizadas por meio de métodos bacteriológicos. Nas amostras de queijos foram observadas E. coli em 50,0 %, Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em 34,4 % e Salmonella spp. em 6,3 %. Nas amostras de salames foram detectadas Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em 23,1 % e Salmonella spp. em 7,7 %. De acordo com a legislação sanitária brasileira, 63,0 % das amostras de queijos e 23,0 % das amostras de salames artesanais coletadas da Região Metropolitana de dez capitais brasileiras estavam impróprias para o consumo, o que demonstra a importância de realizar monitoramento próximo e efetivo para prevenir surtos de origem alimentar.

Occurrence of Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus in goat milk from small and medium-sized farms located in Minas Gerais State, Brazil.

Consumption of goat milk has been increasing due to its nutritional characteristics and health benefits. Therefore, assessment of the presence of foodborne pathogens in this product is critical to ensure its safety to consumers. The present study aimed to identify common foodborne pathogens in raw goat milk. Fifty-three samples of raw goat milk from 11 farms were collected and cultured for the presence of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes, as well as for enumeration and isolation of coagulase-positive and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CPS and CNS, respectively). All samples tested negative for Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes. The CPS counts in raw goat milk samples were predominantly less than 2 log cfu/mL (n=39), and CNS counts were predominantly higher than 3 log cfu/mL (n=42). Based on Staphylococcus counts, 51 isolates were selected (CPS=26; CNS=25) and tested by PCR for the presence of classic enterotoxin-encoding genes (sea, seb, sec, sed, and see). Only 3 isolates (CPS=2, CNS=1) were negative for all enterotoxin-encoding genes tested, and the genotype sec and see was the most frequent (n=16), followed by sea, sec, and see (n=13) and sec (n=13); sed was not detected in any isolate. The frequencies of enterotoxin-encoding genes for CPS and CNS were similar, demonstrating the equivalence of both groups in harboring these virulent markers. These results suggest that Salmonella and L. monocytogenes are not frequent contaminants of raw goat milk, but that Staphylococcus spp. that are capable of producing enterotoxins are prevalent; therefore, consumers of raw goat milk and products made from raw milk are at risk.

Avaliação da presença de microrganismos indicadores higiênico-sanitários em alimentos servidos em escolas públicas de Porto Alegre, Brasil / Evaluation of the presence of hygienic and sanitary indicator microorganisms in food served in public schools in Porto Alegre, Brazil

Este estudo tem por objetivo avaliar a presença de microrganismos indicadores higiênico-sanitários em amostras de alimentos servidos em escolas públicas de Porto Alegre. Foram analisados todos os alimentos servidos na refeição do turno da visita, quanto à presença de Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus coagulase positiva, Salmonella sp. e Shigella sp. No total de 196 alimentos analisados de 120 escolas, 4 apresentavam contagem de Escherichia coli acima do permitido e dois tinham a presença de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva. Os gêneros Shigella e Salmonella não foram encontrados. Foi observado que a maioria das escolas estudadas servia alimentos dentro de padrões higiênico-sanitários adequados. Foi evidenciado que somente escolas municipais contavam com a orientação de responsável técnico pela alimentação escolar. Das escolas estaduais 60% nunca haviam recebido visita de nutricionista nas quais foram encontrados procedimentos em desacordo com as exigências da legislação. Na maioria das escolas, os alimentos servidos estavam dentro de padrões adequados, porém os problemas detectados demonstram a necessidade da implantação das Boas Práticas no ambiente escolar.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of hygienic and sanitary indicator microorganisms in samples of food served in public schools in Porto Alegre. All the food served in the meal of the session visited was analyzed for Escherichia coli, coagulase-positive Staphylococcus, Salmonella sp. and Shigella sp. Of the total of 196 food products analyzed in 120 schools, 4 contained and Escherichia coli score above the permitted level, and 2 contained coagulase-positive Staphylococcus. Neither Shigella nor Salmonella genus were detected. In the majority of schools studied, it was found that food was of an adequate hygienic-sanitary standard. However, only municipal schools had the supervision of a technician responsible for school food. In the state schools, 60% had never been visited by a nutritionist and in these schools several procedures failed to comply with legal requirements. In most of the schools studied, the food served to students was within adequate standards, though the problems detected revealed the need for the implementation of Best Practices in the school environment.

Perfil microbiológico de peixes e água de cultivo em pesque-pagues situados na região nordeste do estado de São Paulo / Microbiological profile of fish and pond water in fee-fishing located in the northeast region of São Paulo state, Brazil

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o número de coliformes totais, termotolerantes, Staphylococcus coagulase positivo e a presença de bactéria do gênero Salmonella no músculo, no tecido superficial, no trato gastrintestinal de peixes e na água de cultivo de pesque-pagues situados na microbacia do Córrego Rico, SP. Não foi detectado Staphylococcus coagulase positivo em nenhuma amostra de água e peixe. O número mais provável (NMP) de coliformes totais no peixe variou de 2,0 x 10 a >1,1 x 104 NMP.100 mL-1, na água de cultivo variou de 4,2 x 104 a > 2,4 x 105 NMP.100 mL-1. A contagem de coliformes termotolerantes no peixe variou de < 3 a 5,1 x 103 NMP.g-1, na água de cultivo variou de 3,8 x 102 a 2,0 x 104 NMP.100 mL-1. Não houve diferença estatística (P > 0,05) entre as populações de micro-organismos pesquisados na água, pele e trato gastrintestinal, o que reflete uma relação entre a presença dos micro-organismos na água e nesses dois locais analisados. Foi isolada Salmonella sp. em uma amostra de músculo e em duas amostras de trato gastrintestinal. O pescado pode ser veículo de contaminação cruzada, tendo como fonte dos micro-organismos a pele e o trato gastrintestinal para sua própria musculatura. Portanto, o monitoramento da qualidade da água é de suma importância para garantir a produção de peixes com boa qualidade.

The objective of this study was to determine the number of total and thermotolerant coliforms, coagulase-positive Staphylococcus, and the presence of bacteria of the genus Salmonella in the muscle, surface tissue, and gastrointestinal tract of fish, and in the pond water of fee-fishing establishments located in the Córrego Rico microwatershed in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus was not detected in any sample of pond water or fish. The most probable number (MPN) of total coliforms in fish ranged from 2.0 x 10 to > 1.1 x 104 NMP.100 mL-1, while in pond water it ranged from 4.2 x 104 to > 2.4 x 105 NMP.100 mL-1. The count of thermotolerant coliforms in fish ranged from < 3 to 5.1 x 103 NMP.g-1, while in pond water it ranged from 3.8 x 102 to 2.0 x 104 NMP.100 mL-1. There was no statistical difference (P > 0.05) among the studied populations of microorganisms in pond water, surface tissue and gastrointestinal tract, which reflects a relationship between the presence of microorganisms in the water and in the two tissues analyzed. Salmonella sp. was isolated in one sample of muscle and in two samples of gastrointestinal tract. The fish can be a vehicle for cross contamination, having the gastrointestinal tract and the surface tissue as a source of microorganisms for its muscles. Therefore, monitoring the water quality is important to ensure the production of fish with good quality.

Ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em pescado no nordeste, Brasil / Occurrence of Salmonella spp. and coagulse positive Staphylococcus in fish and crustaceans in the northeast of Brazil

O presente estudo foi conduzido com o objetivo de verificar a ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva em pescados e crustáceos provenientes da região nordeste no período de fevereiro de 2004 a dezembro de 2005. Das 143 amostras de peixes e crustáceos (camarão congelado e cauda de lagosta), 5 (3,5%) apresentaram-se positivas para Salmonella spp. Enquanto nas amostras de peixe e cauda de lagosta a contagem de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva foi < 1,0 x 102UFC/g estimado, nas amostras de camarão congelado, em duas a contagem foi 1,0 x 101UFC/g estimado e em uma 2,6 x 101UFC/g estimado, as demais <1,0 x 101UFC/g estimado. Com base nos resultados obtidos conclui-se que as amostras analisadas apresentaram baixos níveis de ocorrência de Salmonella spp. e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva e que, mesmo com estes baixos índices, constantemente deve-se buscar uma melhora na qualidade dos produtos da pesca, melhora esta que passa pelo treinamento constante em boas práticas de fabricação, procedimentos padrões de higienização e análise de perigos e pontos críticos de controle do pessoal que trabalha na pesca ou em fazendas de criação de camarão, bem como dos funcionários das indústrias.

The present study was carried out to evaluate the occurrence of Salmonella spp. and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus in fish and crustaceans from the Brazilian Northeast. Five out of the 143 samples (3.5%) were positive for Salmonella spp. While none of the fish and lobster tail samples were positive for coagulase positive Staphylococcus, two shrimp samples presented an estimated count of 1.0 x 101colony forming units per gram (cfu/g), and one presented 2.6 x 101 cfu/g. The results showed a low level of Salmonella and coagulase positive Staphylococcus occurrence. However, even with these low levels of bacterial numbers in fish and crustaceans we should search look for an improvement in their quality. This improvement should be associated to constant training for good manufacturing practice, a standard procedure of hygiene and analysis of hazards and critical control points related to employees that work as fishers or on shrimp farms, as well as those working in the industry as a whole.