Qualidade higiênico-sanitária de feiras livres e contaminação microbiana em pescado comercializado na Ilha de São Luís, MA, Brasil

Food and Waterborne Diseases are characterized by the generation of infections and are considered a public health issue, especially regarding the conditions under which these foods are sold. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the microbiological profile of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) sold at four important sales points in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, as well as to verify the hygienic-sanitary conditions of these locations. From twenty-four samples collected between January and December 2022, analyses were conducted to detect mesophilic bacteria, quantify total and thermotolerant coliforms, and investigate the presence of Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp., and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus. Additionally, the collection sites were inspected using a checklist of good practices based on ANVISA’s RDC No. 275/2002. The results showed that the total count of mesophilic bacteria, the presence of E. coli and Salmonella sp. were within acceptable limits. Total coliforms were detected in 100% of the samples, and thermotolerant coliforms in 25%. Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus counts were acceptable in 58.33% of the samples, intermediate in 29.17%, and none exceeded the limits established by legislation. Among the sales points, three presented unsatisfactory conditions. Therefore, the study highlights a certain level of contamination and raises an alert for sanitary control programs, as these microorganisms can pose serious risks to consumers of these products. Key words: bacteriological analysis; sanitation; public health; fish

Checklist · Contamination · Fecal coliform · Fish · Flock · Food contaminant · Hygiene · Mesophile · Salmonella · Food Safety and Hygiene