The purpose of this research was to investigate the level of food safety knowledge, attitudes and food handling practices of employees in hospitals in the Capricorn District Municipality (CDM), Limpopo Province, South Africa. Purposeful sampling was followed to sample 210 respondents from nine hospitals in CDM. Respondents were individuals who are 18 years or more, employed in these hospitals and are involved in the food handling duties. Data collection was done by means of questionnaires and interviews. The results showed that 99% and 70% of the food handlers are black females and are health care staffs. Up to 71% have not attended any food safety-training course. Many food handlers are not knowledgeable about HACCP and the correct temperature and duration for receiving and storing temperature controlled for safety (TCS) foods respectively. The vast majority of food handlers are not knowledgeable on minimum internal cooking temperature for poultry, seafood, egg and the best way of thawing of frozen meat. The majority of food handlers do not know that Salmonella is the main foodborne bacteria pathogen mostly associated with poultry products and that food borne bacteria will grow quickly in food at a temperature of 37 ˚C. The majority of food handlers possess adequate food safety knowledge regarding the safe food handling practices and the prevention of contamination. Respondents with higher academic qualifications do not possess more food safety knowledge than those with lower academic qualifications. Food handlers who are health care staff have less food safety knowledge when compared to food service managers, food service supervisors and chefs. / Business Management / M.A. (Consumer Science)

PhDRDV / Institute for Rural Development / Throughout the world, small-scale food vending forms an integral part of society, serving as a poverty buffer and a local based economy generation strategy to optimize livelihoods. However, untrustworthiness and safety concerns have been raised regarding the food handling practices and hygiene that tend to compromise the quality of the food sold in this sector. Thus, this study was conducted in order to propose the pillars of a safety management system for small-scale vended foods in Thulamela Municipality in South Africa. The pillars were proposed after assessing the level of small-scale food vendors’ knowledge, attitude and handling practices. Complementary, the microbiological quality of the commonly consumed small-scale vended foods was determined. A survey-underpinned exploratory sequentially integrated mixed methods research design was adopted. Fifty-four respondents participated in a qualitative study via administering a semistructured interview guide to key informants and focus groups. Correspondingly, quantitative data were collected through a 5-point Likert questionnaire, administered to 136 small-scale food vendors and 272 customers. An observation checklist was used to collect data on 124 food stalls focusing on food handling practices. Microbial loads were determined through analysing 28 food samples collected from seven informal food markets. Qualitative data were analysed using ATLAS. ti version 8.0. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25.0 was used to analyse quantitative data. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate frequencies and mean scores. The Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (r) was used to determine the degree of correlation among variables. Principal Component Analysis was used to isolate and deepen understanding of the main factors determining the knowledge and attitude towards food safety. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis was used to identify two cluster solutions for food handling practices. Mann-Whitney U tests were conducted to determine the relative stability of the generated two cluster solutions. Ordinal Least Square regression analysis was conducted to identify the variables which were critical in defining the state of food handling practices dynamics in the study area and their relationship with other variables. Data on the microbial counts were subjected to the Analysis of Variance. Duncan’s multiple range test was used to separate means while T-test was conducted to establish if there was any difference between organisms isolated for each food type from Thohoyandou and Sibasa markets. In general, food vendors were knowledgeable about personal (x̄ = 1.77) and food (x̄ = 1.75) hygiene respectively. However, they rarely considered knowledge of foodborne diseases and rules and regulations as crucial in defining the quality and safety of small-scale vended foods. Respondents reflected positive attitude towards personal hygiene (x̄ = 3.21), food hygiene (x̄ = 3.55) and utensils management (x̄ = 3.43). The highest correlation relations between variables of roadside vendors’ knowledge of food safety were observed to be between “Staphylococcus as a germ that causes foodborne diseases” and “Hepatitis A virus that can cause foodborne disease” (P < 0.01). From thirty-six factors that determined the knowledge and attitude towards food safety, the Principal Component Analysis isolated eight components that accounted for 50 % of the variability. Similarly, customers were knowledgeable about food hygiene (x̄ = 1.88) personal hygiene (x̄ = 1.86). They also showed positive attitude towards personal (x̄ = 3.66) hygiene, food (x̄ = 3.72) hygiene and utensils management (x̄ = 3.56). From thirty-six factors that determined the knowledge and attitude towards food safety, the Principal Component Analysis isolated ten components that accounted for 60. % of the variability. The results revealed the six major determinants of the state of handling practices in Thulamela Municipality. These were stalls conditions, personal hygiene, environmental and waste management, hygiene-related behaviour, food storage and utensils management. The most significant variables defining the state of food handling practices were protective clothing (P < 0.05) and stalls conditions (P < 0.05). The microbial counts (log10 cfu/g) of food samples ranged from 2.0 ± 2.08 to numerous to count for total plate count, 2.0 ± 1.00 to 6.6 ± 7.57 for Salmonella spp, 2.0 ± 2.64 to 3.9 ± 6.03 for S. aureus, 2.1 ± 1.73 to numerous to count for yeast, 2.0 ± 0.00 to 3.8 ± 10.00 for coliform bacteria and 2.0 ± 1.15 to 4.9 ± 21.66 for B. aureus. Coliform bacteria and B. cereus were not found in foods sold at Thohoyandou markets while mould was not detected in foods collected at both locations. Total plate count differed significantly (P < 0.05) between salads and chicken stews. Salmonella spp, significantly differed (P < 0.05) between salads and beef stews. For S. aureus, a significant difference was found in salads (P < 0.05). For yeast, significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed between salads and beef stews. The main objective of this study was to propose the pillars of a safety management for small-scale vended foods. Thus, the major components of pillars proposed were encored on hygiene (personal, food and handling practices), training programme, environmental management, infrastructure development and law enforcement. The training programme was scored as number one by the majority of food vendors (x̄ = 4.7) whilst personal hygiene was ranked first by the customers (x̄ = 4.8). The results of the study revealed the urgent need for basic training in food and personal hygiene throughout the value chain. Infrastructure development such as a decent food stalls with adequate working space, proper washing and storage facilities to improve food safety and hygienic practices was highlighted. Adequate access to waste-water and food disposal facilities aligned to vending spaces was also considered crucial. Thus, it is recommended that Thulamela Municipality should provide extensive training programme to ensure that proper hygiene practices are in place. Suitable regulations must be crafted to ensure that safe and secure foods are sold. Lastly, Thulamela Municipality should consider providing all vending stalls with basic infrastructure to close the gap between knowledge and practices of safe small-scale food vending. / NRF

Thesis (M. Tech.) -- Central University of Technology, Free State, 2010 / South Africa currently faces one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world. As this prevalence rises, the strain placed on its hospitals is likely to increase due to the shortage of beds. The devastating effects of HIV/AIDS initiated the establishment of a hospice which is a non-governmental organisation whose goal is the provision of care for terminally ill patients, either in their homes, in hospitals or in a hospice’s own in-patients wards. Part of the hospice’s mission is to offer palliative care without charge to anyone who requires it. The basic elements of hospice care include pain and symptom management, provision of support to the bereaving family and promoting a peaceful and dignified death. This also includes the provision of cooked foods to the patients using the kitchen facilities of the hospices for this activity. It is well known that the kitchen is particularly important in the spread of infectious disease in the domestic environment due to many activities that occur in this particular setting. Food and water safety is especially important to the persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or with immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).It is estimated that food-borne pathogens (disease–causing agents) are responsible for 76 million illnesses, some resulting in death, in the United States alone every year. In one study of patients with AIDS, two-thirds had diarrhoeal disease and in two-thirds of these, the following enteric pathogens were identified: Salmonella, Shigella, Listeria, Yersnia, Cryptosporidium, Entamoeba histolylica and Campylobacter sp. In an epidemiological study of patients with HIV infection a close association was found between consumption of raw or partially cooked fish and antimicrobial-resistant Mycobacterium avium complex. Antibiotic resistance in food-borne pathogens has become a reality and this poses a serious threat to the medical fraternity since it diminishes the effectiveness of treatment. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of foodborne pathogens including bio aerosols isolated from the kitchen surfaces and food handler’s before and after cooking. The antibiotic resistance of the isolated pathogens was further determined to assess their impact on treatment. The following microbiota were isolated: Total viable counts (TVC), Coliforms, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas and presumptive Salmonella. The hospices had high counts of E.coli and S.aureus on the cutting boards for the breakfast session compared to the traditional home based kitchens. It was speculated that this could have originated from crosscontamination via the foodhandler’s hands and the food served. It is evident from the results that hospices lack a management system regarding the prevalence of E. coli as it was present on the cutting boards throughout the food preparation sessions. Gram negative organisms (coliform and P. aeruginosa) were in particular both resistant to oxacillin and this pose a great challenge in this particular setting. This can be addressed by putting emphasis on hygiene as a strategy per se for reducing antibiotic resistance.

Thesis (M. Tech. (Environmental Health)) -- Central University of technology, Free State, 2013 / Malnutrition and concomitant infections are major contributing factors to child morbidity and mortality in developing countries such as South Africa. Globally, children benefiting from school feeding programmes are generally from communities with low socio-economic statuses. The meals provided through feeding schemes, such as the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) in South Africa, are aimed at significantly supplementing the beneficiaries’ daily energy and nutrient requirements. The possible nutrient deficiency of meals provided through such programmes compromises the nutritional well-being of children, promotes malnutrition and renders children more susceptible to infectious diseases. Furthermore, illness, particularly caused by diarrhoeal and infectious diseases, is a major factor contributing to child malnutrition as the human body is unable to efficiently digest foods and absorb nutrients during illness. Therefore, the microbiological safety of the foods served to children via feeding schemes is essential. In an effort to contribute towards the safety and wholesomeness of foodstuffs served through the NSNP, the present study was conducted with a view to assess the nutritional quality and safety of the foodstuffs. The knowledge, attitudes and practises (KAP) of food handlers and NSNP representatives/committee members at the schools were also investigated in order to assess origins of potential food contamination. Data collected via nutritional analyses of meals served to school children were compared to the nutrient-based standards set by the United Kingdom as guidelines for an average school lunch. The carbohydrate, energy, calcium and zinc contents of the school meals were below the standards, the majority of the meals met the protein and iron standards and all meals complied with the standards for lipid and vitamin C contents. During the microbiological analysis study, preparation surfaces yielded higher counts of all detected organisms (total coliforms, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and yeasts and moulds) compared to the hands of food handlers. Therefore possible sources of contamination may be foodstuffs, animal pests and environmental elements such as dust. However, significant differences of surface microbial counts could not be established (P > 0.05) and thus cross-contamination may have resulted among surfaces, possibly augmented by shortfalls in cleaning regimes. The majority of the participants of the questionnaire survey reportedly washed their hands and cleaned all surfaces several times during the day with water and detergent. In addition, a disinfectant was used by some of the food preparers during cleaning. Furthermore, participants stated that their aprons were washed daily. These claims were in agreement with the findings of the surface microbial study with regards to the hands, however, they did not match the findings of the preparation surfaces which contained the highest counts of total coliforms, E. coli and S. aureus of the three surfaces analysed, and aprons responsible for the highest yeast and mould counts. Improper storage and food preparation methods, such as the application of high temperatures, excessive exposure to UV light and oxygen, and high moisture conditions, may result in the deterioration of nutrients. Storage conditions which may permit pest infestation may also increase the risk of food-related illnesses and risk could be further elevated by application of improper cleaning and sanitation practices. In order for the NSNP to operate effectively, it is essential that the national and provincial Departments of Basic Education, which are responsible for the overall administration of the NSNP, and schools’ personnel function in an integrated manner through support structures and effective communication. Infrastructural limitations (lack of proper kitchen facilities and ventilation) and shortage of resources while administering the NSNP were the main challenges observed during the present study. Due to these hurdles, adhering to food safety practices and maintaining nutritional quality of foods may be a challenge. Continuous training in personal and general hygiene is also a necessity in preserving food safety. Furthermore, nutritional quality of foodstuffs may be preserved through proper storage practices and application of preparation methods which minimize loss of nutrients.

Esta dissertação teve como propósito a implementação do Sistema de Qualidade no laboratório de análise sensorial da indústria de alimentos, baseando-se nos princípios das Boas Práticas de Laboratório (BPL) e Boas Práticas de Fabricação (BPF), visando contemplar os aspectos analíticos e processuais. Para isso, fez-se a abordagem das normas fundamentais e dos princípios estabelecidos pelas Boas Práticas, relacionadas com a estrutura organizacional, o gerenciamento das atividades e os critérios necessários para o funcionamento do laboratório de análise sensorial, assegurando a sistemática de padronização e otimização das operações. O laboratório de análise sensorial apresenta características exclusivas que são contempladas nas atividades de manipulação dos alimentos, durante preparação das amostras e atividades analíticas realizadas pelos provadores. Em função da especificidade das atividades desenvolvidas, foi necessária a elaboração de procedimentos específicos, levando-se em consideração todos os aspectos inerentes às operações, instalações, equipamentos, análises, produtos e pessoas. Após o processo de implementação do Sistema de Qualidade, foram realizados o monitoramento e a verificação pelo critério de auditorias periódicas, previamente programadas. Os resultados do processo de implementação demonstraram a aplicabilidade do Sistema de Qualidade, na extensão das atividades do laboratório de análise sensorial, em consonância aos princípios das BPL e BPF. O processo de monitoramento e verificação possibilitou, através das atividades de auditorias, promover a estabilização e melhoria do sistema implementado. / This dissertation had like purpose the Quality System implementation in the food industry sensory analysis laboratory, using the principles of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), aiming to contemplate the analytical and processual aspects. For this purpose, was made an examination of basic rules and principles established by the Good Practices related to the organizational structure, the managing activities and the necessary criteria to the sensory analysis laboratory operation, assuring the systematic of the operations standardization and optimization. The sensory analysis laboratory presents exclusive characteristics that are contemplated in the food handling activities, during the samples preparation and the analytical activities carried out by the panelists. Due to the specificity of the activities developed, it was necessary the elaboration of specific procedures, taking into account all of the inherent aspects to the operations, facilities, equipments, analysis, products and persons. After the Quality System implementation process, it was carried out the monitoring and verification by the periodic audits criterion, previously programmed. The results of the implementation process showed the Quality System applicability in the range of the sensory analysis laboratory activities, in consonance to the GLP and GMP principles. The monitoring and verification process was possible, by the audits activities, to promote the stabilization and the improvement of the implemented system.

Esta dissertação teve como propósito a implementação do Sistema de Qualidade no laboratório de análise sensorial da indústria de alimentos, baseando-se nos princípios das Boas Práticas de Laboratório (BPL) e Boas Práticas de Fabricação (BPF), visando contemplar os aspectos analíticos e processuais. Para isso, fez-se a abordagem das normas fundamentais e dos princípios estabelecidos pelas Boas Práticas, relacionadas com a estrutura organizacional, o gerenciamento das atividades e os critérios necessários para o funcionamento do laboratório de análise sensorial, assegurando a sistemática de padronização e otimização das operações. O laboratório de análise sensorial apresenta características exclusivas que são contempladas nas atividades de manipulação dos alimentos, durante preparação das amostras e atividades analíticas realizadas pelos provadores. Em função da especificidade das atividades desenvolvidas, foi necessária a elaboração de procedimentos específicos, levando-se em consideração todos os aspectos inerentes às operações, instalações, equipamentos, análises, produtos e pessoas. Após o processo de implementação do Sistema de Qualidade, foram realizados o monitoramento e a verificação pelo critério de auditorias periódicas, previamente programadas. Os resultados do processo de implementação demonstraram a aplicabilidade do Sistema de Qualidade, na extensão das atividades do laboratório de análise sensorial, em consonância aos princípios das BPL e BPF. O processo de monitoramento e verificação possibilitou, através das atividades de auditorias, promover a estabilização e melhoria do sistema implementado. / This dissertation had like purpose the Quality System implementation in the food industry sensory analysis laboratory, using the principles of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), aiming to contemplate the analytical and processual aspects. For this purpose, was made an examination of basic rules and principles established by the Good Practices related to the organizational structure, the managing activities and the necessary criteria to the sensory analysis laboratory operation, assuring the systematic of the operations standardization and optimization. The sensory analysis laboratory presents exclusive characteristics that are contemplated in the food handling activities, during the samples preparation and the analytical activities carried out by the panelists. Due to the specificity of the activities developed, it was necessary the elaboration of specific procedures, taking into account all of the inherent aspects to the operations, facilities, equipments, analysis, products and persons. After the Quality System implementation process, it was carried out the monitoring and verification by the periodic audits criterion, previously programmed. The results of the implementation process showed the Quality System applicability in the range of the sensory analysis laboratory activities, in consonance to the GLP and GMP principles. The monitoring and verification process was possible, by the audits activities, to promote the stabilization and the improvement of the implemented system.

Submitted by Luciana Ferreira (lucgeral@gmail.com) on 2016-08-08T12:54:40Z No. of bitstreams: 2 Dissertação - Natália Menezes Silva - 2016.pdf: 5000977 bytes, checksum: e00d87ceb9bd95951496870e4475fc1b (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) / Approved for entry into archive by Luciana Ferreira (lucgeral@gmail.com) on 2016-08-08T12:56:13Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 2 Dissertação - Natália Menezes Silva - 2016.pdf: 5000977 bytes, checksum: e00d87ceb9bd95951496870e4475fc1b (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2016-08-08T12:56:13Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 Dissertação - Natália Menezes Silva - 2016.pdf: 5000977 bytes, checksum: e00d87ceb9bd95951496870e4475fc1b (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2016-05-02 / Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico - CNPq / The pulp processing is a possibility for use of fruits by traditional people like the quilombolas, inserted in a context in which native fruits are little consumed. Therefore, the hygienic and sanitary quality is essential in the production of safe food. This study aimed to evaluate the processing and hygienic and sanitary conditions of fruits and fruit pulps in quilombola community. The survey was conducted in the Community of the Remnant of Quilombo do Pombal, Goiás, Brazil. To evaluate the physical and functional conditions was applied a checklist before and after the implementation of structural adjustments, training and implementation of the Manual of Good Practices and Standard Operating Procedures. Data were categorized according to the percentage of adequacy. Microbiological analyzes of 32 samples were taken including, fruits of Cerrado found in the community and fruits and their pulps in different steps of the flowchart production. The hazards and critical control points were listed in the production flow chart. The physical and functional diagnostic performed indicated average compliance of blocks of 30.18%, being classified in Group 3, unsatisfactory. After interventions, there was 62.13% of compliance, with classification in Group 2, regular (p <0.05). The intervention effect was significant (p <0.05) for five of the seven blocks evaluated. Microbiological analysis indicated that all the native fruits collected are in accordance with the recommendations of the current health legislation. Fruits and pulps included into processing flowchart presented in accordance with sanitary standards for fecal coliform count and detection of Salmonella spp, however, the mold count and yeast in eight pulps analyzed indicated that five of them had counts above the established by legislation. The results suggest fruit contamination since the harvest and multiplication of such micro-organisms in the remaining stages. The washing and filling steps were able to reduce the load of molds and yeasts. It is understood that the physical and functional adaptations implemented were important to increase the percentage of adequacy of the items, however, the persistence of shortcomings in the work process may compromise the quality of the final product, stressing the need for compliance with good practices. / O processamento de polpas constitui uma possibilidade para utilização de frutos por povos tradicionais como os quilombolas, inseridos em um contexto no qual frutos nativos são pouco consumidos. Para tanto, a qualidade higienicossanitária é fundamental na produção de um alimento seguro. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o processamento e as condições higienicossanitárias de frutos e polpas de frutas em comunidade quilombola. A pesquisa foi realizada na Comunidade dos Remanescentes do Quilombo do Pombal, Goiás, Brasil. Para avaliação das condições físico-funcionais foi aplicada lista de verificação antes e após a realização de adequações estruturais, capacitações e implementação do Manual de Boas Práticas e Procedimentos Operacionais Padronizados. Os dados foram categorizados de acordo com o percentual de adequação. Foram realizadas análises microbiológicas de 32 amostras incluindo, frutos do Cerrado encontrados na comunidade e frutos e suas polpas em diferentes etapas do fluxograma. Foram elencados os perigos e Pontos Críticos de Controle no fluxograma de produção. O diagnóstico físico-funcional realizado indicou média de conformidade dos blocos de 30,18%, sendo classificado no Grupo 3, insatisfatório. Após intervenções, verificou-se 62,13% de conformidade, com classificação no Grupo 2, regular (p<0.05). O efeito da intervenção foi significativo (p<0,05) para cincos dos sete blocos avaliados. A análise microbiológica indicou que todos os frutos nativos coletados estão em conformidade com as recomendações da legislação sanitária vigente. Os frutos e polpas inseridos no fluxograma de processamento apresentaram-se de acordo aos padrões sanitários para contagem de coliformes termotolerantes e pesquisa de Salmonella spp, porém, a contagem de bolores e leveduras em oito polpas analisadas, indicou que cinco apresentaram contagem acima do estabelecido pela legislação. Os resultados sugerem contaminação do fruto já na colheita e a multiplicação destes micro-organismos nas demais etapas, sendo que as etapas de lavagem e envase foram capazes de reduzir a carga de bolores e leveduras. Entende-se que as adequações físico-funcionais implementadas foram importantes para o aumento do percentual de adequação dos itens, contudo, a persistência de falhas no processo de trabalho pode comprometer a qualidade do produto final, ressaltando a necessidade de adequação às boas práticas.

CAPES / A Salmonella spp. é um dos principais micro-organismos patogênicos envolvidos em Doenças Transmitidas por Alimentos (DTA’s), com destaque para surtos envolvendo a ingestão de carne suína. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a segurança alimentar na produção de carne suína e embutidos quanto a presença de Salmonella spp. no processo produtivo. As amostras foram coletadas em um frigorífico que abate suínos e fabrica embutidos, localizado na região dos Campos Gerais - PR. Inicialmente, para padronização da PCR foi necessário determinar um protocolo de extração, bem como, ajustes metodológicos para amplificação de DNA. Para esses testes realizados, foi utilizada amostra de Salmonella spp previamente isolada de alimento. O protocolo de extração testado foi lise térmica e para reação de amplificação foram avaliadas três concentrações de DNA e diferentes temperaturas de hibridização para estabelecimento do padrão ideal. O protocolo escolhido mostrou-se bastante eficiente para extração do DNA de Salmonella spp, pois permitiu a obtenção de DNA em quantidade e com qualidade suficiente para amplificação de bandas. Para a amplificação, a melhor condição encontrada foi a concentração de DNA de aproximadamente 40 ng e uma temperatura de hibridização de57 ºC.Com o intuito de validar a análise molecular via PCR, realizouse um estudo comparativo inicial com a microbiologia convencional para comprovação dos resultados obtidos pela análise molecular. Inicialmente foram escolhidos dezessete pontos durante as diferentes etapas do processo produtivo do frigorífico em estudo. Duas carcaças foram acompanhadas durante todo o processo e amostras foram coletadas, contemplando desde a etapa de escaldagem até o embutimento do produto final. A utilização da técnica de PCR mostrou-se vantajosa nos seguintes aspectos: tempo de análise total de aproximadamente 30 horas; maior sensibilidade comparado ao método convencional. Decorrida a validação, foi realizada nova coleta, contemplando etapas desde pré-abate até a obtenção do embutido, perfazendo um total de 62 amostras, com intuito de avaliar contaminação durante a produção de carne suína e embutidos. Como resultado, foi verificado que 60% das amostras estavam contaminadas por Salmonella spp, em diversas etapas do processo produtivo. A partir dessa avaliação, foram selecionados alguns pontos contaminados e elaborado um plano de ações corretivas, a fim de controlar e diminuir os perigos microbiológicos existentes no local. Através de novas análises via PCR foi possível verificar que o plano de ações foi eficiente em 100% das amostras. / The Salmonella spp is major pathogens involved in Food borne Diseases (FBD), especially outbreaks involving the ingestion of meet and this products. The aim of this study was to evaluate the food safety in pork and sausages production for the Salmonella spp. presence in the process. The samples were collected in a refrigerator that slaughter pigs and manufactures sausages, located in the Campos Gerais - PR. Initially, to standardize the PCR was necessary to determine an extraction protocol, as well as methodological adjustments to the PCR reaction. For these tests it was used sample of Salmonella isolated from food. The extraction protocol was tested by heating process and for amplification reaction were evaluated three different concentration of DNA and hybridization temperatures to establish the ideal standard. The chosen protocol proved to be very efficient for the Salmonella ssp DNA extraction because it allowed obtaining DNA in sufficient quality and quantity for amplification bands. For amplification, the best condition was found a concentration of approximately 40 ng DNA and a hybridization temperature of 57 ° C. In order to validate the molecular analysis by PCR, we carried out a comparative study with the initial conventional microbiology for proof of all results obtained by molecular analysis. Seventeen points were chosen during the different stages of production process. Two carcasses were monitored throughout the procedure and samples were collected, comprising the scalding step to the final product inlay. The PCR usage technique proved advantageous in the following aspects: total analysis time of approximately 30 hours; higher sensitivity compared to conventional. After validation, we performed a new collection, covering stages from pre-slaughter until embedded obtaining, making a total of 62 samples, in order to assess contamination during production of pork and sausages. As a result, it was found that 60% of the samples were contaminated with Salmonella spp, in various stages of production. From this evaluation, we selected some points contaminated and developed a corrective action plan in order to control and reduce microbiological hazards on the premises. Through further analysis by PCR was possible to verify that the action plan was effective in 100% of samples.

Made available in DSpace on 2014-07-29T15:07:50Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Dissertacao JanainaGomes.pdf: 323977 bytes, checksum: 872ea1e01b711a691d7746d206ac395e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2008-08-20 / The present research was carried out at Sector of Fish of the Goiás Federal University, between December the 2006 and May the 2007, which lasted for 127 days. Nile tilapia juveniles (Oreochromis niloticus), Supreme strain, with starter weight of 31.86 ± 1.75 g were randomly allotted in 32 tanks of 100 L of capacity each one in raceway system. The full water exchange of the tanks occurred in 30 min at the beginning. The fish were fed with extruded diet containing 36% of CP in pellets of 2-4 mm in diameter. By the average weight of 100 g, the fish were fed with extruded diet with 32% of CP in pellets of 4-6 mm in diameter until the end of the experiment. This assessment was performed to evaluate feed frequencies (2, 3, 4 and 5 times/day) and ratio (ad libitum and based on the percentage of the biomass weight - %PVBIO) on the productive performance, chemical composition, biometric indices, carcass and fillet yield and costs and profitability partial of Nile tilapia during the weight gain in the raceway system. The experimental design was composed by a completely randomized design in a factorial (4 x 2), with four repetitions, totalizing 32 experimental units. The performances body weight (BW), weight gain (WG), final biomass (FB), feed intake (FI), index of food intake (IF), apparent feed conversion ratio (AFCR), feed efficiency (FE), survival (S%), protein efficiency ratio (PER), specific growth ratio (SGR) and uniformity of the lot (U%) -; fillet weight (FW), carcass yield (CY), fillet yield(FY), biometric indices, and chemical composition fillet (total dry matter (TDM), moisture (MO), crude protein (CP), crude lipid (CL), ash) were the main evaluated parameters. The performance data were submitted to the analysis of variance and Duncan tests (5%), and the others to Tukey test (5%). Despite the quantity of food provided in the treatments, the main variables of water quality remained within the limit recommended for fish breeding. Better AFCR, FE and PER were reached for fish fed three times a day and greater PVBIO% for those ones fed twice daily ad libitum (P <0.05). The values of FBW, FL, FWG, FB, and FI were higher for fish fed four times a day (P <0.05), with the AFCR and PER values similar to those in fish fed three times a day. S%, SGR, CF and U% suffered no influence by the feeding frequency (P> 0.05). Only in IF differences on how to supply the ration (P <0.05) were observed. Fish fed four, five and three times a day had better average of FY, differing from those fed twice a day (P<0.05). The feeding frequency of less than five times had greater CY and VFI, but it did not differ from the other regimens. Difference in form of supply was observed only for RF, and the best average was reached in fish fed ad libitum. Regarding the chemical composition fillet, no differences in ashes were observed (P>0.05). The highest level of CL was found in three times of feeding frequency, which was statistical relevant (P<0.05) in comparison to the others. Interaction was observed for the variables TDM, MO and CP. The cost incidence (CI) was lower in three times a day of feeding frequency with feed supply based on %BW. The feeding frequency of 3 times per day ad libitum presented the best result concerning performance, and suggested lower cost with labor for juveniles of Nile tilapia cultivated in raceway tanks. / A pesquisa foi realizada no Setor de Piscicultura da Escola de Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Goiás, no período de dezembro de 2006 a maio de 2007, com duração de 127 dias. Foram utilizados juvenis de tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus), linhagem Supreme, com peso médio inicial de 31,86 ± 1,75 g, distribuídos aleatoriamente em 32 caixas reguladas para 100 L adaptadas ao sistema raceway. A troca total de água das caixas, no início, ocorreu em 30min. Os peixes foram alimentados com ração extrusada contendo 36% de PB e grânulos com 2 a 4 mm de diâmetro até o peso médio aproximado de 100 g; em seguida, foram alimentados com ração extrusada 32% de PB com grânulos de 4 a 6 mm de diâmetro até o final do experimento. Objetivou-se determinar o efeito das frequências (2, 3, 4 e 5 vezes/dia) e formas de fornecimento da ração (à vontade e com base na porcentagem do peso da biomassa) sobre o desempenho produtivo, a composição bromatológica do filé, os índices biométricos, os rendimentos de carcaça e filé, e custos e rentabilidade parciais da tilápia durante a fase de engorda no sistema raceway, constituindo, assim, um delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial (4 x 2), com quatro repetições, totalizando 32 unidades experimentais. Foram assim avaliados: desempenho produtivo - peso (P), ganho de peso (GP), biomassa final (BF), consumo de ração (CR), índice de consumo alimentar (IA), conversão alimentar aparente (CAA), taxa de eficiência alimentar (TEA), taxa de eficiência protéica (TEP), taxa de crescimento específico (TCE), sobrevivência (S%), uniformidade do lote (U%) -; peso do filé (PF), rendimentos de carcaça (RC) e filé (RF), índice hepatosomático (IHS), índice gordura víscero-somático (IGVS) e composição bromatológica do filé (matéria seca total (MST), umidade (UM), proteína bruta (PB), extrato etéreo (EE), cinzas). Os dados de desempenho produtivo foram submetidos à análise de variância e teste Duncan (5%), e os demais ao teste Tukey (5%). Apesar da quantidade de alimento fornecido por tratamento, as principais variáveis de qualidade da água permaneceram dentro do limite recomendável para os peixes. Os valores de P, GP, BF, e CR foram maiores para os peixes arraçoados quatro, três e cinco vezes ao dia, respectivamente, diferindo de duas vezes ao dia (P<0,05). Foi observada interação significativa para IA, CAA, TEA e TEP. Observou-se melhor CAA, TEA e TEP para os peixes arraçoados três vezes ao dia pela %PVBIO e duas vezes ao dia à vontade (P<0,05). S%, TCE e U% não sofreram influência quanto à frequência alimentar (P>0,05). Os peixes arraçoados três, quatro e cinco vezes ao dia apresentaram melhor média de RF diferindo dos peixes arraçoados duas vezes (P<0,05). A frequência de cinco vezes apresentou menor RC e maior IGVS, porém não diferiu das demais. Foi observada diferença para forma de fornecimento apenas para RF, sendo a melhor média para os peixes arraçoados à vontade. Quanto à composição bromatológica, só não foram observadas diferenças (P>0,05) para Cinzas. O maior teor de EE foi encontrado na frequência de três vezes (P<0,05) diferindo das demais. Foi observada interação (P<0,05) para as variáveis MST, UM e PB. Quanto à avaliação econômica, a incidência de custo (IC) foi menor na frequência de três vezes ao dia com fornecimento de ração baseado na %PVBIO. Recomenda-se a frequência alimentar de 3 vezes/dia para juvenis de tilápia do Nilo até o abate por possibilitar menor gasto com mão de obra, melhores resultados para desempenho, com fornecimento de ração à vontade, até atingirem a saciedade aparente, quando cultivados em tanques raceways

Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the Masters Degree of Applied Science in Food and Nutrition, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2016. / Introduction: Food vending is becoming a very important and a useful service. Moreover, socioeconomic factors and lifestyle changes forces customers to buy food from street vendors. Since the food industry is growing worldwide, good hygiene practices coupled with food safety standards is of vital importance. Currently there is inadequate information or scientific data on the microbiological quality and safety of vended foods in South Africa more especially in Durban. To date limited research has been conducted on the food handlers (FH’s) operating as food vendors in different areas of Durban, and a lack of documented evidence about the knowledge that food vendors have on food safety and food hygiene has resulted in the interest in this research. Aim: The aim of this study was to ascertain food hygiene practices and knowledge, food safety practices and the nutritional value of the food served by various food vendors at DUT in Durban. Method: A total number of 15 food vending stalls (comprising of 15 managers and 39 food handlers) situated within the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Durban campuses participated in the study. The study was conducted on all food vendors who prepared and served food items on site. Data collected was of a quantitative nature with two sets of questionnaires (Managers questionnaires and (FH’s) questionnaires), observation sheets to observe FH’s during food preparation and cleanliness, and weighing and recording of menu items prepared and served in order to determine portion sizes and the nutritional content. All the administration of data was completed by the researcher on a Microsoft Excel spread sheet and analysed on the SPSS software version 20. Recording and weighing of menu items was done using an electronic food portion scale. A statistician was consulted to assist in the interpretation of the data. Results: The majority (66.67%) of vendors were females with the educational level that was fairly high, (73.33%) had secondary education. Most of the respondents (80.00%) had been in the food vending business for more than 3 years. The availability of proper infrastructure was poor, 40.00% of the vendors obtained running water from the kitchen taps within the stalls and 60.00% obtained water from a communal sink tap outside the food stalls. Most vending stalls 66.67% had no proper storage facilities; perishable stock was stored on refrigerators, while non-perishable food items were stored on built-in shelves, on top of fridges, on the floor, in storage containers, and on tables due to shortage of space. Thirty three percent of the vendors had designated storerooms for non – perishable items. Food preparation and cooking space was very minimal as a result the researcher observed that in some stalls white and red meat was grilled in the same griller and that increases the chances of cross-contamination. The researcher also observed that the area where most of the vending stalls were situated had no shelter and paving, as a result during food preparation and service, food was exposed to dust, air pollution and flying insects. Most managers 73.33% and FH’s 56.41% attended hygiene and food safety training but observational findings indicated that important hygiene practises such as washing of hands before serving food were not practised. Another concerning observation regarding personal hygiene was that students did not wash hands prior to eating food despite the availability of tap water within the dining area. The majority of managers had contracts with suppliers, and grocery items were mainly purchased from wholesale stores, meat items from formal retailers. A large number of managers 73.33% bought and delivered perishable products themselves using own cars, while 13.33% used refrigerated trucks from the suppliers for the delivery of perishable goods. In that way delivery temperature of food items was not monitored and maintained. The nutritional value of food served by vendors was imbalanced with the majority of the meals exceeding the recommended energy contribution from fat of 15–30%, the carbohydrates (CHO) contribution was lesser than the stipulated percentage of 55-75%, and the mean energy contribution of protein was within the recommended percentage of 10-15%. The mean energy contribution made by fat in all meals was higher than the recommended percentage 15-30%, with the highest contribution of 63.59% and the lowest of 34.12%. High fat meals were of great concern as prospects of cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart diseases were high. The CHO content of meals was below the stipulated percentage of 55- 75% with the maximum percentage of 49.86% and the minimum of 31.04%. The mean energy contribution of protein was 15.36% which was generally within the recommended percentage of 10- 15%. Furthermore, the study revealed that out of the 12 881 kJ recommended for men and 10 093 kJ for females; male students on an average were consuming approximately 14% more kJ than recommended, and female students were consuming approximately 27% more kJ than recommended from the meals. Frequent consumption of such high energy meals can lead to overweight and obesity among young adults. Conclusion: The results of the study revealed the urgent need for basic infrastructure such as a decent food kiosk with adequate working space, proper washing and storage facilities to improve food safety and hygienic practices. Even though food vendors claimed to have received hygiene training, knowledge attained was not effectively practiced or demonstrated; and that placed students at risk of foodborne illnesses. Furthermore, the nutritional value of food served by vendors was imbalanced with the majority of the meals exceeding the recommended energy contribution from fat of 15–30% and the CHO contribution being lesser than the stipulated percentage of 55-75%. Recommendations: Extensive training programme and regular supervision should be put in place by management of the Institution to ensure that proper hygiene practices are in place and also to ensure the quality of food served to students is of acceptable standard. All vending stalls to be provided with basic infrastructure. Food court yard to be well sheltered to avoid food being contaminated by air pollution, dust and pests. DUT management, together with the Department of Health, should organise nutrition awareness programmes to enlighten students about the dangers of unhealthy eating habits. / M