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Introduction: The rising foodborne disease outbreaks poses significant challenges to key objectives in food microbiology. This trend is primarily attributed to global population growth and intensified food production. A thorough microbiological assessment of end products is therefore crucial. Methods: We evaluated the bacterial presence and abundance in various dairy products (sour cream, cottage cheese, buttercream, cream cheese, pasteurized milk, protein-rich milk, and yogurt) sourced from a local supermarket in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Two enumeration methods (pour plating and most probable number) were employed alongside morphological, biochemical, and molecular analyses (Gram staining, oxidase test, catalase test, indole test, lipolytic activity assay, and RT-qPCR). Our focus was on spoilage-causing lactic acid bacteria (LAB), hygiene indicator thermotolerant coliforms (TC), and the foodborne pathogen Salmonella spp. Results: Six out of seven dairy products harbored high levels of LAB, suggesting potential spoilage, with the exception of cottage cheese. Additionally, both TC and Escherichia coli exceeded acceptable microbial limits, particularly in pasteurized milk. Furthermore, initial tests detected presumptive Salmonella spp. in cream cheese, protein-rich milk, and yogurt. Conclusion: These results highlight the need for stringent sanitary practices during dairy production to extend product shelf-life and prevent premature spoilage from unwanted bacterial presence. Moreover, eliminating pathogen contamination during manufacturing is crucial to mitigate serious food safety risks, including potential food poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in competition for the use of water makes it an increasingly scarce resource for agricultural irrigation; it is necessary to search for alternative sources, such as the reuse of wastewater in agriculture that represents benefits for the soil and crops. The research was carried out with the objective of evaluating the quality of treated residual water in stabilization ponds for agricultural irrigation purposes, from the analysis of the physical, chemical and microbiological parameters of residual water. The main results indicate the presence of a facultative lagoon with efficiencies of 50%, 53%, 98% and 94% for the removal of biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, thermotolerant coliforms and total coliforms, respectively. That accounts for 74% of total operation efficiency of the lagoon with 2 mg·L-1 of dissolved oxygen in it. These values indicate that the effluent from the stabilization pond can be used for irrigation of cooked food crops according to the recommendations of the World Health Organization for Latin America and the Caribbean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work presents a methodology for modeling the quality of surface water, aiming at the management of hydrographic basins and the best allocation of resources in the treatment of sanitary sewage, considering the predominant uses of water and microbiological quality. The QUAL-UFMG model was used, composed of Excel spreadsheets, where visual basic for applications (VBA) routines were implemented, enabling deterministic and probabilistic modeling through Monte Carlo simulations. The proposed methodology was applied to a Brazilian hydrographic basin, called the GD2 Planning Unit (Grande River Slopes), considering the discharges of sanitary sewage from 30 municipal seats and approximately 740,000 inhabitants. Four scenarios were studied: the current situation (C-01), the trend for the year 2033 (C-02), compliance with environmental legislation (C-03) and compliance with the main uses of the basin (C-04). The results showed that for C-01 and C-02, the water quality, in terms of thermotolerant coliforms, in most stretches does not meet the defined uses. Even complying with the provisions of environmental legislation (C-03), which do not provide for disinfection, only the largest watercourses would have adequate quality for use. Complete service would only be achieved in C-04, which provides for universal sewage treatment with disinfection for the vast majority of municipalities. HIGHLIGHTS The joint analysis of deterministic and probabilistic modeling proved to be an interesting tool in watershed management.; The secondary level of sewage treatment is not sufficient to reach the necessary quality of watercourses.; Normally, the obligations related to the treatment of sewage, as foreseen in the legislation, are not sufficient to guarantee the necessary quality for the foreseen uses of the water.;

Constructed wetlands are an efficient and cost-effective system for the treatment of wastewater that can be reused for diverse purposes, including irrigation; however, few studies have determined the efficiency of microbial removal by constructed wetlands in tropical regions. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the microbial quality of the influent and effluent of a constructed wetland in Puerto Rico, using traditional bacterial indicators (i.e., thermotolerant coliforms and enterococci), as well as somatic and male-specific (F+) coliphages. Results showed that over 99.9 and 97.7% of thermotolerant coliforms and enterococci were removed after treatment by constructed wetlands, respectively. Notably, approximately 84.0% of male-specific (F+) coliphages were removed, while somatic and total coliphages exhibited differing removal percentages at different steps during treatment by constructed wetlands. The potential risk of the presence of enteric viruses in treated wastewater by constructed wetlands may increase when considering traditional bacterial indicators exclusively. The present study may aid in the efforts to determine public health concerns associated with the exposure of bioaerosols resulting from wastewater treatment by constructed wetlands. HIGHLIGHTS Microbial removal efficiency by constructed wetlands in tropical regions remains largely unexplored.; Coliphages were tested as indicators of microbial removal efficiency by a constructed wetland in Puerto Rico.; Approximately 84.0% of male-specific (F+) coliphages were removed.; The present study aids to determine the effectiveness of coliphages as indicators of wastewater treatment by constructed wetlands.;

Abstract Foodborne diseases are common illnesses caused by the consumption of food contaminated with microorganisms, such as viruses, fungi, bacteria, and protozoa. Every year, 600 million people become ill and 420,000 people die as a result of consuming contaminated food. Therefore, food safety is an important issue. In this study, samples of homemade spiced mayonnaise and self-serve acai sold in the city of Araguaína, Tocantins, Brazil were analyzed for microbiological contaminants. Acai was collected from 10 stores, one sample from each store, and tested for mold, yeast, and coliforms, as well as coliform identification and total and thermotolerant coliform counts. Mayonnaise was collected from 20 snack bars, one sample from each. These samples were inoculated on MacConkey and Salmonella Shigella agar plates, and the plates were analyzed for growth. Salmonella spp. were detected in some Mayonnaise samples, and coliforms were detected in all acai samples; 60% of samples had thermotolerant coliforms, and only 40% were within the limits established by ANVISA. The collected samples of mayonnaise and acai were contaminated with molds and yeasts above the established limit of 103 CFU/g. Thus, the analyzed mayonnaise and acai samples were contaminated and unfit for consumption, demonstrating the importance of hygienic-sanitary measures in food handling.

Household water contamination at point of use depends on human, animal and environmental factors embodying all aspects of a One Health approach. This study investigated the association between household factors, the presence of thermotolerant coliform, and the presence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in drinking water among 314 households with children under 5 in Cajamarca, Peru. This study analysed data from a baseline sampling of a randomized controlled trial, including household surveys covering household water management and factors such as household animals, as well as microbiological data from samples collected from drinking water. Data were analysed using generalized linear models. Drinking water samples collected from narrow-mouthed containers were less likely to be contaminated than samples collected from the faucet (OR = 0.55, p = 0.030) or wide mouthed containers. The presence of thermotolerant coliform was associated with owning farm birds, which increased the proportion of contamination from 42.2% to 59.1% (OR = 1.98, p = 0.017) and with animal waste observed in the kitchen area, which increased the prevalence of contamination from 51.4% to 65.6% (OR = 1.80, p = 0.024). Resistance to any antibiotic was higher among pig owners at 60%, relative to non-pig owners at 36.4% (OR = 1.97, p = 0.012) as well as households with free-roaming animals in the kitchen area at 59.6% compared to households without free-roaming animals at 39.7% (OR = 2.24, p = 0.035). Recent child antibiotic use increased the prevalence of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole resistance among E. coli isolates to 22.3% relative to 16.7% (OR = 3.00, p = 0.037). Overall, these findings suggest that water storage in a secure container to protect from in-home contamination is likely to be important in providing safe drinking water at point of use. In addition, transmission of thermotolerant coliform and AMR between domestic animals and human drinking water supplies is likely. Further research should explore transmission pathways and methods to support safe drinking water access in multi-species households.

Constructed wetlands are an efficient and cost-effective system for the treatment of wastewater that can be reused for diverse purposes, including irrigation; however, few studies have determined the efficiency of microbial removal by constructed wetlands in tropical regions. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the microbial quality of the influent and effluent of a constructed wetland in Puerto Rico, using traditional bacterial indicators (i.e., thermotolerant coliforms and enterococci), as well as somatic and male-specific (F+) coliphages. Results showed that over 99.9 and 97.7% of thermotolerant coliforms and enterococci were removed after treatment by constructed wetlands, respectively. Notably, approximately 84.0% of male-specific (F+) coliphages were removed, while somatic and total coliphages exhibited differing removal percentages at different steps during treatment by constructed wetlands. The potential risk of the presence of enteric viruses in treated wastewater by constructed wetlands may increase when considering traditional bacterial indicators exclusively. The present study may aid in the efforts to determine public health concerns associated with the exposure of bioaerosols resulting from wastewater treatment by constructed wetlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica is the property of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Changes in fauna and abiotic factors in estuaries are a consequence of their exploitation; thus, bivalve mollusks, as they filter, are widely used as environmental bioindicators. The aim of this study was to analyze the existence of seasonal variation in the concentration of total coliforms (TC) and thermotolerant coliforms (Ct), in addition to correlating the data obtained with the salinity and temperature in collection areas of Mytella falcata and the soft tissue cultivated in the Estuarine Complex of Cananéia. Two biweekly samples of water and tissue were taken, for 12 consecutive months, in nine cultivation areas of M. falcata. The analysis of the water samples showed that the Fisheries Institute, Mosquiteiro, and Itapitangui have high TC densities, with respective annual averages of 772.22, 592.67, and 563.75 most probable number (MPN).100 ml−1. The highest concentrations of TC and Ct occurred in the summer, in most areas. There was a decrease in both TC and Ct with increasing salinity. However, there was an increase in Ct with increasing temperature. The soft tissue showed TC densities from 9 to 26 MPN.100 ml−1 and Ct densities from 6 to 14 MPN.100 ml−1, displaying the highest counts in the summer. Places where coliforms were found in high concentrations could indicate contamination, because Ct do not support higher salinities for a long time. Practitioner Points: The general mean was 77.64 (total coliforms) and 39.35 (thermotolerant) MPN.100 ml−1.Annual average (thermotolerant) exceeded the permitted Brazilian limit in five points.Higher concentrations of total and thermotolerant coliforms occurred in the summer.In mollusk's tissue, concentrations of thermotolerant were 6.30 to 26.16 MPN.100 g−1.Coliforms' MPN varied with increasing salinity and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Animal production wastes are promising for use in agricultural production as a plant nutrient or soil conditioner. However, if not properly managed, they can contaminate the soil and plants, resulting in public health risks. Considering that the composting technique is recommended to ensure compost hygiene and agronomic viability, the present study aimed to evaluate the microbiological and parasitic load during the composting of residues from conventional and organic animal productions. Method The presence of Salmonella sp. and/or helminth eggs and the quantification of thermotolerant coliforms were determined in horse bedding and organic and conventional poultry litter during the process of composting. Results The initial load of thermotolerant coliforms was greater than 1017 MPN g-1 in the three raw materials. All of them showed a significant reduction in these bacteria at the end of the composting process, reaching 99.98%, 100.00%, and 99.80% in the horse bedding, organic poultry litter, and conventional poultry litter, respectively. All the fresh residues contained helminth eggs, with the horse bedding exhibiting the highest amount compared to the others. However, they all revealed an absence of helminth eggs at the end of the composting process. Salmonella sp. was absent in both the raw materials and the final compost. Conclusion Composting was effective in eliminating helminth eggs and reducing thermotolerant coliform levels. However, the final composts retained a higher pathogenic microbial load than that required by the current Brazilian legislation for use in agriculture.

Abstract This present work is a part of the liquid discharges treatment topic by studying the removal performance for thermotolerant coliforms (FC) and fecal streptococci (F.Strep) by a local natural light green clay from Kenadsa (Bechar-Algeria) under continuous adsorption processes in a fixed-bed column. The study estimated the clay adsorbing efficiency by the adsorption technique for bacteria contaminating the dairy effluent by determining the bacterial load before and after treatment. The mean log counts per 100 ml for FC and F.Strep were assessed by MPN method on liquid medium. The clay material characterizations were made through X-ray diffraction, X fluorescence spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Besides, some parameters were estimated such as the breakthrough time tb (clay filter breakdown); the amount of the contaminating bacteria that was removed at the breakthrough time Xb and the exhaustion of disinfection capacity Xe; the total amount of contaminating bacteria flowing through the column Xtotal; and the total removal efficiency (Y). According to the XRD, XRF and FTIR results, the predominant mineral constituents were silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, ferric oxide and magnesium oxide with rates of 59,44; 18,09; 7,79; and 3,87%, respectively, and hence, their classification among non-swelling clay minerals, illite is the major mineral group of this material. The results of the bacteriological analysis of raw dairy effluents showed an average bacterial load of 3,88 Log10 and 4,1 Log10 CFU/100 mL for FC and F.Strep, respectively, exceeding the thresholds set by the national and the international regulations. The results of the dairy effluents treated by the tested material have shown that the used clay has a relatively high adsorption property for the clay fixed-bed system (3 cm of bed height), expressed by a total removed efficiency Y (%) of FC and F.Strep used to evaluate the column performance ranging from 55 to 84%. It gives a higher log removal for FC and F.Strep (0.98–1.65 Log10) reported from the first adsorption process, and a breakthrough time ranged from 100 to 250 min, which was inversely proportional to the initial bacterial load of discharges and also linked to the nature of the bacterial contaminants. When the breakthrough occurs earlier, the column service life will be shortened. For the studied parameters, the results of treated effluent complied with national and WHO regulations for unrestricted agricultural irrigation, otherwise, as authorized effluents to be discharged into nature without risks. These preliminary results are very promising at laboratory scale as an innovative green technology, treatment method respecting the environment and opens up prospects for the future, where the modification or the optimization of operating conditions such as the bed height of the fixed bed for adsorption, the volumetric flow rate or the clay structure like the particle size distribution of the adsorbents, known as one of the adsorbent classes endowed with an antimicrobial property, can improve the column performance, and further, the removal or even more the disinfection process by adsorption method.

Anthropic activities performed in a river basin, especially those that promote changes in the soil surface, have great effect on the quality of the waters in the basin. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate water quality by applying the Water Quality Index (WQI) in springs and watercourses located in an area with different land use and occupation characteristics, as well as to compare the analyzed variables with the standards established for class 2 of the National Environmental Council (CONAMA, for its acronym in Portuguese) Resolution No. 357/2005. Seven sampling points located in the rural area of the municipality of Jacutinga, Minas Gerais State (MG), were monitored. The water samples were collected from October 2018 to July 2019. Comparison with the resolution showed that the quality condition was lower than the standard established for class 2 in most campaigns conducted. Regarding the mean WQI, the water quality at points S1, WC1, WC2, and WC3 was classified as "average," while the water quality at points S2, S3, and S4 was classified as "good." There was seasonal variation in the WQI only at point WC1. Overall, thermotolerant coliforms (TC), nitrate, and phosphorus are the main factors deteriorating water quality, and it may be directly related to the agricultural activities practiced in the monitored areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of spring water and its suitability for human consumption is determined by examining its physicochemical and microbiological characteristics. Preliminary investigations were conducted to determine the potability of seven traditionally used springs in the highly populated hill town of Bhaderwah in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The water analysis was performed for various physico-chemical and microbial parameters during April 2019-March 2020. Water temperature, TDS, EC, pH, DO, free CO2, total alkalinity, total hardness, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, CO32−, HCOֿ3, Cl‾, NOֿ3, PO43−, SO42−, total coliforms, and thermotolerant coliforms were all measured. Eleven physical and chemical characteristics were used to generate the Water Quality Index. The Piper diagram demonstrated the predominance of Ca2+—HCOֿ3 water types, whereas the Schoeller diagram indicated that all springs had a similar lithological origin. The chemical composition of springs tested met the required criteria for drinking water quality. The microbiological indicators, on the other hand, did not satisfy the criteria except for Eidgah spring, which lacked thermotolerant coliforms. Our results on spring water potability indicate that the town's most dependable springs are susceptible to anthropogenic contamination and therefore need treatment prior to use. Apart from frequent monitoring, the responsible municipal corporation is expected to develop comprehensive plans to rehabilitate and revitalise these vulnerable drinking water sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal contamination became a growing public health concern. Enteric illness outbreaks, and the occurrence of dermatitis and mycoses during the summer season in leisure areas, were usually related to seawater pollution. Pathogenic microorganisms can reach coastal areas through sewage discharges, compromising marine water, and beach quality. Although sand transmission of enteric illness is still unclear, there is an expressed concern that sand may act as reservoirs or vectors for humans infection. In this context, the main hypotheses of this study were: (i) fecal coliforms density changes within beach compartments; (ii) dry sand is the most contaminated beach compartment; (ii) fecal coliforms densities are within international standard limits for sand. Therefore, this case study quantified and compared within three months total fecal bacteria (TC) and thermotolerant coliforms (TEC) densities in seawater, wet, and dry sand of a chosen touristic beach from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Furthermore, to contribute to coastal beach management, sand contamination data surveyed were compared with the standard limits ruling worldwide until April 2018 to check suitableness. Vermelha beach should be considered as a reference beach for sand monitoring in Brazil. Despite being a buffer zone from the MONA Pão Açucar conservation unit, it is subjected to intense touristic pressure. Even though, fecal bacteria densities quantified in Vermelha beach were within the standards of “excellent” quality sand and water according to current legislation/guidelines. However, dry sand was the most contaminated compartment, followed by seawater and wet sand. The bacterial density in dry sand was up to 4,600 times higher than wet sand. Except for Rio de Janeiro city, recreational guidelines for beach quality is exclusive for seawater contamination. There are no established parameters for recreational beach sand classification, only recommendations, including Portugal. Monitoring recreational beach dry sand is critical to reducing the risk of beachgoer exposure to pathogens.

Monitoring water quality is a fundamental process to ensure proper anthropogenic usage and environmental protection of this resource. This study collected monthly measurements of 9 parameters (pH, Temperature, BOD, Total Solids, Thermotolerant Coliforms, Dissolved Oxygen, Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorus) in 5 sampling stations along the Marrecas water stream, during a 1-year period. Temporal and seasonal variations were analyzed and interpreted for each element, explaining how specific geographical and anthropogenic factors affected the water body. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to evaluate each element's correlation and to reduce the number of parameters, easing the assessment of water quality for each location. Results were followed by the creation of an improved index for the region, which could better estimate the quality of water, only considering 4 of the original parameters. It was also recognized that each water body possesses several subtleties that impact on how its water quality should be measured and indexed into a single value, which validates the case for the creation of regional WQI's. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Animal production wastes are promising for use in agricultural production as a plant nutrient or soil conditioner. However, if not properly managed, they can contaminate the soil and plants, resulting in public health risks. Considering that the composting technique is recommended to ensure compost hygiene and agronomic viability, the present study aimed to evaluate the microbiological and parasitic load during the composting of residues from conventional and organic animal productions. Method The presence of Salmonella sp. and/or helminth eggs and the quantification of thermotolerant coliforms were determined in horse bedding and organic and conventional poultry litter during the process of composting. Results The initial load of thermotolerant coliforms was greater than 1017 MPN g-1 in the three raw materials. All of them showed a significant reduction in these bacteria at the end of the composting process, reaching 99.98%, 100.00%, and 99.80% in the horse bedding, organic poultry litter, and conventional poultry litter, respectively. All the fresh residues contained helminth eggs, with the horse bedding exhibiting the highest amount compared to the others. However, they all revealed an absence of helminth eggs at the end of the composting process. Salmonella sp. was absent in both the raw materials and the final compost. Conclusion Composting was effective in eliminating helminth eggs and reducing thermotolerant coliform levels. However, the final composts retained a higher pathogenic microbial load than that required by the current Brazilian legislation for use in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In order to use purified wastewater on watering green spaces of Agadir city, we conducted this study to assess the bacteriological and physicochemical quality of treated wastewater in Mzar treatment plant. To realize these objectives, we analyzed four types of waters: raw water (RW), decanted water, purified water and purified water treated by the ultraviolet radiation (PWUV). The biologically analyzed parameters are fecal coliforms (FC) and fecal enterococci (FE). The physicochemical parameters are: pH, electrical conductivity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), five-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5) and total suspended solids (TSS). The results showed a high level of bacterial contamination in all types of waters, and the average loads of FC were between 4.71 × 106 CFU/100 mL (RW) and 1.45 × 103 CFU/100 mL (PWUV), while loads of FE were between 2.62 × 105 CFU/100 mL (RW) and 7.92 CFU/100 mL (PWUV). The physicochemical parameters show a pH close to neutrality and a high electrical conductivity (3261 μS/cm) in PWUV. In all stages of wastewater treatment, values of COD, BOD5 and TSS were under the limit values recommended by Moroccan standards. Except for the electrical conductivity and FC, all the studied parameters were under the limit values requested by the Moroccan standards. The microbiological quality of PWUV is unstable, and if these waters are reused, they can affect the microbiological and physicochemical quality of green spaces and groundwater.

This present work is a part of the liquid discharges treatment topic by studying the removal performance for thermotolerant coliforms (FC) and fecal streptococci (F.Strep) by a local natural light green clay from Kenadsa (Bechar-Algeria) under continuous adsorption processes in a fixed-bed column. The study estimated the clay adsorbing efficiency by the adsorption technique for bacteria contaminating the dairy effluent by determining the bacterial load before and after treatment. The mean log counts per 100 ml for FC and F.Strep were assessed by MPN method on liquid medium. The clay material characterizations were made through X-ray diffraction, X fluorescence spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Besides, some parameters were estimated such as the breakthrough time tb (clay filter breakdown); the amount of the contaminating bacteria that was removed at the breakthrough time Xb and the exhaustion of disinfection capacity Xe; the total amount of contaminating bacteria flowing through the column Xtotal; and the total removal efficiency (Y). According to the XRD, XRF and FTIR results, the predominant mineral constituents were silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, ferric oxide and magnesium oxide with rates of 59,44; 18,09; 7,79; and 3,87%, respectively, and hence, their classification among non-swelling clay minerals, illite is the major mineral group of this material. The results of the bacteriological analysis of raw dairy effluents showed an average bacterial load of 3,88 Log10 and 4,1 Log10 CFU/100 mL for FC and F.Strep, respectively, exceeding the thresholds set by the national and the international regulations. The results of the dairy effluents treated by the tested material have shown that the used clay has a relatively high adsorption property for the clay fixed-bed system (3 cm of bed height), expressed by a total removed efficiency Y (%) of FC and F.Strep used to evaluate the column performance ranging from 55 to 84%. It gives a higher log removal for FC and F.Strep (0.98–1.65 Log10) reported from the first adsorption process, and a breakthrough time ranged from 100 to 250 min, which was inversely proportional to the initial bacterial load of discharges and also linked to the nature of the bacterial contaminants. When the breakthrough occurs earlier, the column service life will be shortened. For the studied parameters, the results of treated effluent complied with national and WHO regulations for unrestricted agricultural irrigation, otherwise, as authorized effluents to be discharged into nature without risks. These preliminary results are very promising at laboratory scale as an innovative green technology, treatment method respecting the environment and opens up prospects for the future, where the modification or the optimization of operating conditions such as the bed height of the fixed bed for adsorption, the volumetric flow rate or the clay structure like the particle size distribution of the adsorbents, known as one of the adsorbent classes endowed with an antimicrobial property, can improve the column performance, and further, the removal or even more the disinfection process by adsorption method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research study was to examine the relationship between physico-chemical variables and coliform removal percentage from the oxidation lagoon system in the city of Valledupar (Colombia). Twelve samples of wastewater, raw water, and treated water were collected during dry and rainy seasons from the Salguero wastewater treatment plant in Valledupar. Physico-chemical variables were measured according to the "Standard Methods for Examination of Water and Wastewater." Coliform group determination was performed by the membrane filtration technique and the chromogenic substrate Merck method. The results show weak relationships between physical variables and the coliform group. It is concluded that the treatment system does not comply with national and international guidelines for the coliform group. This has a negative impact on the Cesar River and constitutes a public health problem for surrounding communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arquivos de Ciências Veterinárias e Zoologia da Unipar is the property of Associacao Paranaense de Ensino e Cultura and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In Solan district, the developmental activities associated with chemical based farming, rapid urbanization, and rampant industrialization have led to many diarrhoeal, gastroenteritis, and hepatitis disease outbreaks. This has necessitated for microbiological assessment of indicator organisms, the thermotolerant coliforms, in drinking water sources, and their relationship with diarrhoeal disease. All the 49 Public Health Institutes (PHIs) of the district were categorized into very low, low, moderate, and high disease burden regions by stratification method. For drinking water, 55.5, 16.5, and 17% people preferred springs, borewells, and hand-pump respectively. These sources inventoried by Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice survey in one of very low and seven of high disease burden regions, and were analyzed by multiple tube fermentation technique. A cross-sectional survey of 200 children was undertaken for diarrhoeal disease estimation. Parwanoo, an industrial and Kurgal, a non industrial region witnessed highest (30.20) and lowest (4.40) Most Probable Number (MPN) per 100 ml water of thermotolerant coliforms, respectively. Thermotolerant coliforms were also observed significantly more (16.77 MPN/100 ml water) in monsoon than in post monsoon season (9.04 MPN per 100 ml water). The thermotolerant coliform Escherichia coli was recovered from six and three water sources respectively during monsoon and post monsoon. A strong correlation (r = 0.78) existed between the diarrhoeal disease occurrence and the concentration of thermotolerant coliforms in monsoon whereas it was moderate (r = 0.61) in post monsoon. The study indicated more contamination of water sources due to industrial activities which further got aggravated during the rainy season of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess the hygienic status of raw milk cheese and determine the trends of virulence and antimicrobial resistance in thermotolerant Escherichia coli. Two hundred samples of karish, a popular Egyptian fresh raw milk cheese, were analyzed for coliforms and fecal coliforms using a standard most probable number (MPN) technique. Overall, 85% of samples were unsuitable for consumption, as they exceeded Egyptian standards for coliforms (10 MPN/g), and 65% of samples exhibited coliforms at 44.5 °C. Of 150 recovered thermotolerant strains, 140 (93.3%) were identified as E. coli. Importantly, one Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) strain carrying a striking virulence pattern, stx1−, stx2+, eae−, was detected. Eleven strains (7.8%, 11/140) showed resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. Antibiotic resistance genes included blaSHV, blaCTX-M, qnrS, tet(A), and tet(B), which were present in 4.3%, 2.8%, 0.71%, 2.1%, and 0.71% of isolates, respectively. In conclusion, this study indicated that hygienic-sanitary failures occurred throughout the production process of most retail karish cheese. Furthermore, our findings emphasize the need for adopting third-generation cephalosporin-resistant E. coli as an indicator for monitoring antimicrobial resistance in raw milk cheese to identify the potential public health burden associated with its consumption.

Rio de Janeiro city is famous worldwide for its beaches. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the monitoring of water quality data, since the pollution is a risk to the population health. It was made a temporal evolution analysis of the recreational water quality of Rio de Janeiro city main beaches. Thermotolerant Coliforms’ (TtC) data collected by the Instituto Estadual do Ambiente (INEA) from 1995 to 2015 were related with the CONAMA 274/2000 Resolution limits criteria. It was observed that Barra da Tijuca western portion, Leblon, Ipanema, Arpoador, Copacabana, Leme, Vermelha and Urca beaches showed an overall improvement of their water quality conditions over the analyzed period. São Conrado and the eastern corner of Barra da Tijuca beach have shown worsening. Joatinga beach remained stable. Flamengo and Botafogo beaches showed variable conditions over time, but always presenting poor water quality conditions. It was verified that the determining factors for a beach having inappropriate water quality were the existence of canals that dump sewage and urban runoffs. Another relevant factor was the location of beaches within the confined and polluted waters of Guanabara Bay. This study can be used as a useful tool for a more efficient management for urban beaches. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17807/orbital.v10i4.1072

The Estância Velha stream integrates the Sinos River Basin that provides drinking water in one of the most important Brazilian centers, the "Capital of tanneries," and it receives effluents from tannery industries. In Brazil, water quality is monitored only through physicochemical and microbiological parameters, and considering the biomarkers' importance in complementing the analysis, the present study was aimed at evaluating the environmental quality of the Estância Velha stream also through cytogenotoxic criteria, at the stream source (site 1), as well as upstream (site 2) and downstream (site 3) of the demographically most dense area. The results for dissolved oxygen, color, total phosphorus, silver, and thermotolerant coliforms classified the Estância Velha stream as class 4 in general; that is, the water is suitable only for navigation and to landscape harmony. Overall, the water was classified as poor by Water Quality Index (WQI) and as hypereutrophic by Trophic State Index (TSI). The main genotoxic alterations (micronuclei and nuclear buds) were observed in site 2, in which were obtained the highest levels of aluminum, silver, iron, and manganese. Despite this, most of the effluents released from the region are not treated prior to being discharged into the stream, suggesting the requirement for effluent treatment to ensure the quality of the water source available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Consumption of ready-to-eat (RTE) vegetables is quick, easy and healthy, especially when eaten without cooking. However, they might be a source of foodborne pathogenic microorganisms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and parasitological contamination of fresh RTE vegetables produced in agroindustries in the Federal District of Brazil (FD), and to correlate contamination with good manufacturing practices (GMP). One hundred and three samples of RTE vegetables were collected from six agroindustries for microbiology and parasitology analyses and correlate with GMP; 54 samples were collected from three hypermarkets for parasitological evaluation. None of the samples analyzed were positive for Salmonella sp. and for thermotolerant coliforms, but they were contaminated with total coliforms. All analyzed samples were contaminated with at least one species of enteroparasistes or commensals, which were identified as Ascaris sp., Balantidium coli, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Hookworm, Strongyloides sp., Trichuris sp., Entamoeba sp., eggs and larvae of Nematoda, insects and fungi. Agroindustries that adopted GMP showed less contamination with helminths. RTE vegetables sold in hypermarkets of the FD are unfit for human consumption. It is important to guide farmers in the FD on the need to adopt good practices in the production and processing of vegetables to reduce the microbial contamination.

The objective of the study was to optimize the operation of the municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) of the Sicaya district with Hydrocotyle ranunculoides. The relative growth rate of the macrophyte was determined, in addition to the relationship between the population growth area and the final weight according to the number of days elapsed. Medium fences were implemented and the tributary and effluent of the WWTP were characterized physicochemically and microbiologically. The results of the characterization corresponding to the tributary were as follows: 616 mg of TSS/L, 109.2 mg of BOD5/L, 305.4 mg of COD/L, 30.3 mg of oils and fats/L and 3 500 000 NMP of thermotolerant coliforms/100 ml. Owing to the implementation of two medium grids, large suspended solids were retained. The highest efficiency of COD removal with respect to the growth area of H. ranunculoides (2 226.96 m²) was 81.53%. While the efficiency of removal of thermotolerant coliforms was 79.2% at a water temperature of 12.32°C . Using the operational optimization model in the WWTP with H. ranunculoides, an area of 3 291.67 m² of macrophyte population growth was achieved with a removal efficiency of 93.71% COD and an area of 3 591.67m² to remove 79.95% of the thermotolerant coliforms at a temperature of 13°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of ice cream consumed in Frutal, Minas Gerais, Brazil through the determination of total and thermotolerant coliforms, coagulase-positive and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, and Salmonella spp. 40 ice cream samples from 5 ice cream shops were randomly collected. The samples were diluted from 10-1 to 10-4 fold in peptone water. The total coliforms were determined in Bile Brilhante Broth, at 35ºC for 24-48h. From the positive tubes, an aliquot was transferred for EC medium for the determination of thermotolerant coliforms at 45ºC, for the same period. Staphylococcus coagulase positive was counted in Baird Parker medium and Salmonella spp counts was done in Salmonella shigella medium. It was observed that 11 samples (27.5%) had indices higher than allowed by the legislation for thermotolerant coliforms (> 50 NMP / g). One sample (2.5%) was contaminated with coagulase positive Staphylococcus. Salmonella spp. was also detected in a sample (2.5%). In total, 14 samples (35.0%) were unfit for consumption because they were out of the standard for at least one of the evaluated microorganisms. The results indicate the need to improve hygiene conditions in the production, storage and/or handling in establishments where there was contamination of ice creams, since the consumption of ice cream outside microbiological standards may represent risks to consumer health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Swimming is one of the most popular sport fields and entertainments that has considerable benefits for human health, but on the other hand microbial water contamination in swimming pools through transmission and spread of infectious diseases is a significant threat against public health. In this study, microbial water quality of all public swimming pools in Tehran were assessed and effective factors on microbial water quality were analyzed. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study with the analytical approach was performed in 2013. The whole public swimming pools in Tehran were inspected and water samples were taken for measurement of microbial indicators including thermotolerant coliforms, heterotrophic plate count (HPC), and physicochemical parameters affecting the microbial water quality including turbidity, free residual chlorine and pH and an integrated swimming pool microbial water quality index were used to describe the overall situation. Operational parameters with probable effects on microbial water quality were checked through inspection using a checklist. Results: The assessment of the swimming pool microbial water quality indicated that the compliance rates of thermotolerant coliforms and HPC were 91.4 and 84.5%, respectively. Compliance rates of free residual chlorine, turbidity, Ph, and temperature were also obtained to be 82.7, 45.5, 85.6, and 65.4% respectively. Based on the integrated swimming pool microbial water quality index, the proportions of swimming pools with excellent and good microbial water quality were 39.6 and 50.4% respectively and the others had not proper microbial water quality. The parameters of water free residual chlorine and turbidity, swimmer density, water recirculation period, dilution amount, cleaning, usage rates of shower and disinfection basin and operation of water treatment systems had significant effects on the microbial indicators (P

In recent years, the population has been consuming increasingly mineral water, seeking practicality and safety. There is also a trend of construction of many artesian wells, both in homes and companies, aiming, besides trying to guarantee the supply, to reduce the expenses with water, as it is occurring in the city of Frutal/MG. However, mineral water marketed in plastic bottles and gallons is not exempt from the possibility of contamination, depending on the form of its collection, packaging and handling. Water from the artesian wells may also be contaminated, which carries risks to the user. The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of mineral water in gallons of 20 liters and artesian wells in the city of Frutal/MG, by means of the determination of thermotolerant coliforms. Thirty samples of mineral water in gallons and 30 samples of artesian wells were collected. The determination of thermotolerant coliforms was done with A1 culture medium, in multiple series of 5 test tubes containing Durhan tubes. Of the 30 mineral water samples in 20L gallons, 3 (10%) were in disagreement with the legislation for thermotolerant coliforms. Among the water samples from artesian wells, 9 (30%) were outside the standards required by current legislation, which establishes absence of this group of microorganisms. In samples contaminated by thermotolerant coliforms, there is the risk of water consumption, since they indicate the presence of pathogenic microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drinking water corresponds to all water available in nature and does not pose risks to living beings who consume it. Although there are several important factors that determine the potability of water, the absence of bacteria of the coliform group is one of the main parameters that must be evaluated. In this way, monitoring water quality within the school environment, where students spend much of their time, becomes necessary to ensure that they have access to quality water. Given this context, this research aimed to evaluate the bacteriological quality of water samples from public schools in the Tangará da Serra, Mato Grosso municipality. There were collected two samples on 14 schools and the method used for the detection of total coliforms and Escherichia coli was the use Kit "Colitag™". The results revealed that there were no positive samples for E. coli, however, 21.4% of the samples had confirmation of presence for total coliforms, not meeting the parameters required by decree n° 2914/2011 of the Ministry of Health. It is noteworthy that the contamination by bacteria of the total coliform group is a worrisome factor, since these may indicate the existence of enterobacteria in the water. Among the evaluated schools, a school denominated (E2) showed total coliforms in both samples collected. The results make clear that in some schools, there is need for greater surveillance of water quality and identification of local factors that can are linked to found contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of water bodies has been regulated by national environmental agencies and based on faecal indicator bacteria, such as thermotolerant coliforms Escherichia coli and Enterococcus sp. Additionally, faecal sterols (mainly coprostanol) have been used to corroborate sewage discharge in marine environments. In this study, faecal material input was evaluated in two sampling campaigns in transects of two tidal creeks using bacterial and chemical indicators to both compare and establish the water quality in a South Atlantic subtropical estuary. The Itiberê tidal creek (S1) was classified as "contaminated" by faecal material, while the Peças tidal creek (S2) presented variable water quality according to the sampling period and sewage indicators considered in this evaluation. Then, the integrated application of chemical and bacterial indicators was applied for tidal creeks with different sewage contamination levels and under distinct environmental conditions and confirmed that Enterococcus sp. and coprostanol are the most suitable for estuarine environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the design of optimal spatial sampling of water quality variables in remote regions, where logistics are complicated and the optimization of monitoring networks may be critical to maximize the effectiveness of human and material resources. A methodology that combines the probability of exceeding some particular thresholds with a measurement of the information provided by each pair of experimental points has been introduced. This network optimization concept, where the basic unit of information is not a single spatial location but a pair of spatial locations, is used to emphasize the locations with the greatest information, which are those at the border of the phenomenon (for example contamination or a quality variable exceeding a given threshold), that is, where the variable at one of the locations in the pair is above the threshold value and the other is below the threshold. The methodology is illustrated with a case of optimizing the monitoring network by optimal selection of the subset that best describes the information provided by an exhaustive survey done at a given moment in time but which cannot be repeated systematically due to time or economic constrains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rio de Janeiro city is famous worldwide for its beaches. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the monitoring of water quality data, since the pollution is a risk to the population health. It was made a temporal evolution analysis of the recreational water quality of Rio de Janeiro city main beaches. Thermotolerant Coliforms' (TtC) data collected by the Instituto Estadual do Ambiente (INEA) from 1995 to 2015 were related with the CONAMA 274/2000 Resolution limits criteria. It was observed that Barra da Tijuca western portion, Leblon, Ipanema, Arpoador, Copacabana, Leme, Vermelha and Urca beaches showed an overall improvement of their water quality conditions over the analyzed period. São Conrado and the eastern corner of Barra da Tijuca beach have shown worsening. Joatinga beach remained stable. Flamengo and Botafogo beaches showed variable conditions over time, but always presenting poor water quality conditions. It was verified that the determining factors for a beach having inappropriate water quality were the existence of canals that dump sewage and urban runoffs. Another relevant factor was the location of beaches within the confined and polluted waters of Guanabara Bay. This study can be used as a useful tool for a more efficient management for urban beaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beeches are the sites of the main recreational activities of the inhabitants of coast cities and towns. It is obvious that their sanitary quality and of the environment should be also monitored and mandatory. Current study evaluates the presence of total and thermotolerant coliforms and Escherichia coli in the sand of the main beeches of Caraguatatuba SP Brazil and tests their resistance to antimicrobial drugs. Total and thermotolerant coliforms and Escherichia coli were counted by series dilution technique. Total and thermotolerant coliforms and Escherichia coli were detected in the sand of the beeches in Caraguatatuba. High concentration rates were also observed on the beeches called Porto Novo, Centro, Martins de Sá, Indaiá and Cocanha. E.coli strains, isolated from the beeches Porto Novo, Centro, Indaiá, Cocanha and Tabatinga, were resistant and multi-resistant to several antimicrobials tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of raw vegetables is related to health benefits. However, these foods might be source of foodborne diseases. The objective of the present study was to perform a microbiological and parasitological evaluation of the leafy vegetables commercially sold in five regions of Brazil at public wholesale markets. The 12 types of leafy vegetables (144 samples) were curly lettuce, looseleaf lettuce, red lettuce, chives, coriander, kale, basil, arugula, parsley, iceberg lettuce, chicory, and bean sprouts. The prevalences of total coliforms (88 to 100%) and thermotolerant coliforms (37 to 100%) were high, but Salmonella was not detected in any of the analyzed samples. All open markets sold vegetables contaminated with enteroparasites, mainly Entamoeba sp., Balantidium coli, Strongyloides sp., Ascaris sp., Enterobius vermicularis, and Ancylostomidae. Contamination was detected in all the regions (north, northeast, central west, southeast, and south) and types of vegetables, with higher prevalences in the northeast region, mainly in basil, lettuce, and chives. Contamination of vegetables by potentially pathogenic microorganisms is a national problem, and the distribution centers should improve quality control of these commercial vegetables. Considering the high frequency of enteroparasites and bacteria and the potential risk of disease transmitted by vegetables, we suggest greater enforcement of the sanitary surveillance of food offered to the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil is privileged in relation to water availability, and still the country faces challenges as the water conservation, treatment and distribution. Frequently on rural areas, properties have no access to water supply networks, intercepting water directly from springs and wells, usually without treatment and inadequate conditions for consumption. This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of the main source of water used for human and animal consumption in 104 milk production farms located in the Vale do Taquari region, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. Water samples were collected from the both main supply sources in rural properties. For microbiological analyses, the detection of total and thermotolerant coliforms (Escherichia coli) was performed, using the Basic Potability Alfakit®. The results obtained through the analyses were compared to the maximum allowed and established values by National Environment Council Resolution (CONAMA) n° 357/2005 (Class III), and n° 396/2008 (Class I and III) and Ministry of Health Ordinance n° 2914/2011. The analyzes revealed that 62.5% (65) of water intended for human consumption and 96.15% (96) of animal water had total and thermotolerant coliforms, 31.7% (33) and 45.2% (47 ), of the waters for human and animal consumption, respectively, presented thermotolerant coliforms (E. coli). These results showed that there is a percentage of the water sources analyzed in these properties, both animal and human consumption, which are in microbiological conditions that are inadequate for consumption when compared to the current legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moderate and high humidity cheeses are described as important vehicles of pathogens in many foodborne diseases outbreaks. Microbial contamination can occur in raw material or in the different steps of the product processing due to inadequate hygiene practices. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality and safety in the production of moderate and high humidity cheese. Samples from raw milk, handlers' hands surface, final product were collected in three cheese manufacturing plants located in southern Brazil, with different levels of sanitary control. Effectiveness of milk pasteurization was also evaluated. Thermotolerant coliforms, coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS), Salmonella spp., and Listeria monocytogenes were evaluated. Raw milk samples showed the highest contamination levels, with enumeration of 1.1x105 most probable number (MPN) mL-1 for thermotolerant coliforms, 4x105 colony-forming units (CFU) mL-1 for CPS and presence of Salmonella spp. CPS were also reported in one sample of handler's hands surface. However, only one sample of the final product was out of Brazilian regulatory standards, exceeding the limit allowed for CPS. Milk pasteurization process used in cheese preparation was effective, regardless the level of sanitary control of the industries. Results highlighted the need for better hygiene practices, in obtaining the raw milk and in the handling during the cheese manufacturing steps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intense manipulation during beef jerky production increases the possibility of contamination with pathogenic microorganisms. This study evaluated the contamination by thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp., on processing surfaces and raw materials during beef jerky production, as well as in the final product. Thermotolerant coliforms were found on all surfaces tested and in the raw material. Escherichia coli was identified in 6.7% of the surface samples, while Salmonella spp. was found in 3.3% of the surface samples and 8.6% of raw material samples. Virulence genes were detected in Salmonella spp. isolates. One Salmonella spp. isolate was resistant to sulfonamide, while one E. coli isolate was multiresistant, including the presence of resistance genes sul2, strA, strB, tetA and tetB. The presence of coliforms demonstrates failings in hygienic-sanitary procedures. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms causing foodborne diseases in the production line indicates persistent contamination in the production plant. Although the drying process applied to beef jerky should guarantee the safety of the final product, the presence of multiresistant pathogenic microorganisms, presenting virulence genes, should be a matter of concern. Because beef jerky is a ready-to-eat product, a failure in the production process may cause such microorganisms to pose a public health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ricotta is distinguishable among different kinds of fresh cheese, or with high humidity. It is a highly consumed product for the reduced fat content and low cost, being indicated in diets with lipid restrictions, besides being economically accessible to most of the social classes. Ricotta cheese presents high water activity and nutritional diversity, factors that propitiate the proliferation of opportunist and patogenic microbiota, reducing the safety of these victuals. In that context, the present study aimed at evaluating the microbiotical quality of ricotta cheese produced under permanent hygienic-sanitarium control. Of a total of 60 samples from the two commercial brands analyzed, 68.3% were considered inappropriate for human consumption due to the presence of high populations of thermotolerant coliforms. With regard to Staphylococcus coagulase positive, 18.3% of the samples were in disagreement with the patterns established by the Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa). High scores were also observed for mesophils microorganisms, mould and yeasts. The presence of microorganisms as E. coli and S. aureus in the evaluated product can unchain the outbreak of diseases transmitted by food and it should be a reason of concern by public health authorities.

Urban development in coastal areas is intense and leads to the increase of sewage outfall and other negative impacts as consequences. Thus, stringent regulations establishing limits to the microbiological contamination of water and seafood are needed. The objective of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of Enterococci and Thermotolerant Coliform densities in the flesh of mussels Perna perna as an alternative tool for monitoring the microbiological quality of coastal waters. The study also considers allometric relations applied to clearance rates to understand rates of bacterial concentration. Bacterial loads obtained in mussels' flesh were from 50 to 4,300 times greater than in the water sampled in the vicinity of the mussels and some were considered inappropriate for consumption even when the water presented no restrictions. The mean clearance rate obtained for Enterococci retention was 317.7 ml h-1 and this rate (CR) is related to the mussels' size (L) by the equation CR = 28.3229L1.6421. The results showed that bacterial densities in the mussels' tissues may reflect chronic contamination of the environment and that clearance rates are important for taking the best decision in situations where, for example, it is desired to introduce mussels for aquaculture and the evaluation of the water concerned is required.O desenvolvimento urbano em áreas costeiras é intenso e o aumento das descargas de esgoto é uma das conseqüências. Assim, leis específicas que regulem limites para a contaminação microbiológica das águas e de alimentos de origem marinha são necessárias. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a utilização de Enterococos e coliformes termotolerantes na carne de mexilhões Perna perna como alternativa para o monitoramento da qualidade microbiológica de águas costeiras. O estudo também considera relações alométricas aplicadas às taxas de "clearance" para entender a concentração de bactérias pelo molusco. As densidades bacterianas obtidas no molusco foram de 50 a 4300 vezes maiores do que nas amostras de água coletadas próximas dos moluscos e alguns foram considerados impróprios para consumo, mesmo quando as águas não mostraram restrições. A taxa de "clearance" média obtida para retenção de Enterococos foi 317.7 ml h-1 e essas taxas (CR) puderam ser relacionadas com o tamanho dos mexilhões (L) pela equação CR = 28.3229L1.6421. Os resultados mostram que as densidades bacterianas nos tecidos dos mexilhões podem refletir a contaminação crônica do ambiente e que as taxas de "clearance" devem ser consideradas para a tomada de decisão em situações onde, por exemplo, se deseja implantar mexilhões para cultivo.