MICROBIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF IN NATURA ORANGE JUICE MARKETED IN MACEIÓ, ALAGOAS

Abstract

Fruit juices have always been consumed as accompanying beverages with meals, widely recognized for the health benefits they offer, especially natural orange juice, which is widely consumed due to its pleasant flavor and nutritional importance. However, it may be susceptible to microbiological contamination from sources such as water or poorly washed fruits, potentially posing risks to public health when hygienic failures occur during production or when the product is not subjected to adequate thermal preservation processes, such as pasteurization. In light of this, this study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of natural orange juices marketed in the city of Maceió, Alagoas, through laboratory analyses. The results revealed the presence of fecal contamination indicator microorganisms and pathogenic bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, suggesting failures in hygienic-sanitary conditions during preparation, storage, or commercialization of the product.