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Evaluation of the microbiological quality of natural processed products for medicinal use marketed in Quito, Ecuador

Authors :
Diana Carrasco
Raquel Espinoza
Gabriela Alejandro
Jonathan Martínez
Javier Santamaría-Aguirre
Fernanda Zúñiga
Pablo Endara
Rommy Terán
Source :
Revista Peruana de Medicina Experimental y Salud Pública, Vol 37, Iss 3, Pp 431-7 (2020)
Publication Year :
2020
Publisher :
Instituto Nacional de Salud, 2020.

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the microbiological quality of samples from processed natural products used for medicinal purposes and marketed in Quito, Ecuador. Materials and methods: Aerobic microorganisms, molds and yeasts were counted by conventional standardized techniques, according to the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP), in samples from 83 products. The microorganisms found were identified and their antimicrobial sensitivity was determined using the agar diffusion method. Results: The total aerobic microorganism count exceeded the specified limits in 17.0% of syrups, 27.0% of topical products and 43.0% of oral solids; the molds and yeasts count exceeded the limit in 33.0% of syrups, 7.0% of topical products and 36.0% of oral solids. Products for eye use did not pass the sterility test. The most frequently isolated bacterial genus was Bacillus, followed by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella and Enterobacter. Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus were not found in any product, but potentially pathogenic microorganisms such as Pseudomonas were isolated in 40.0% of the eye drops. Enterobacter and Escherichia coli showed resistance to multiple compounds and Pseudomonas was not resistant to any antibiotic. Conclusions: The microbiological quality of the products examined was not adequate. Potentially pathogenic and antibiotic resistant microorganisms were isolated from the samples. These products may not be suitable for distribution and consumption, even though many of them have sanitary registration. Control and regulation by the corresponding authorities is essential.

Details

Language :
Spanish; Castilian
ISSN :
17264634 and 17264642
Volume :
37
Issue :
3
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Revista Peruana de Medicina Experimental y Salud Pública
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.46634afba9bd4cbc8104dcf105189c60
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.17843/rpmesp.2020.373.4889