Microbiological control in beverage industry

Resumen

Motivation: The purpose of this study is to establish a microbiological and physic-chemical control of juice-based beverages. All these analyses are included in the International Standard Organization (ISO) regulations. The goal of food companies is to offer a high quality product for human health, so a series of microbiological tests are required to ensure the safety of the product at different levels.

Methods: The method used for the microbiological test was the plate count for bacteria, molds and yeasts colonies. Samples were collected at different locations in the factory: water tanks, ingredient tanks, facilities and final product, as established in Article 3 of Real Decreto 650/2011. Samples of clear products, such as water, were analyzed by filtration with 0.45 μm membranes. They were then transferred to culture plates with selective media for selective counting. Samples of pulp products were analyzed by spreading it in acidified media, recreating the conditions of the final product, so facilitating the growth of microorganisms present in fruit juices. In addition, chemical parameters, such as acidity and Brix degree were measured as indicated in Article 1 of Real Decreto 1518/2007, by acid-base titration and spectrophotometry respectively.

Results: Results obtained were categorized as presence or absence of microorganisms in culture media. Among the ingredient samples, a high growth for molds and yeasts was observed in compare to bacteria; however it was still within the established limits. In water samples, coliform bacteria were not present in any case. After UV treatment absence of microbial growth in water was observed. In the finished product no microorganisms were observed after pasteurization. The physicochemical parameters were within the standards of the regulation.

Conclusions: According to the established parameters all the counts were within the limits and therefore the safety of the product and the high level of food quality can be ensured. In addition, the effectiveness of the treatment of water purification and cleaning of the facilities was confirmed, and aseptic environment of the product bottling is achieved.