Cross-sectional exploratory assessment of the microbiological quality of animal-derived products marketed in open-air markets in municipalities of the Alfenas microregion, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the microbiological quality of animal-derived products marketed in open-air markets in four municipalities of the Alfenas microregion, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Samples of cheeses, meats, fish, and eggs were analyzed, with determination of microorganisms indicative of hygiene, spoilage, and food safety, and comparison with standards established by Brazilian legislation. The results revealed a high frequency of non-compliance in cheeses, with elevated coliform counts (up to 3 × 106 CFU/g) and the presence of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus above the legal limit in a portion of the samples. In meat and fish products, occasional non-compliances were observed, including high counts of mesophilic microorganisms and Staphylococcus spp., although at a lower frequency compared to cheeses. In contrast, eggs showed low microbial loads, with most samples below 103 CFU/g for the evaluated groups and absence of Salmonella spp. in all analyzed samples. Statistical analysis indicated a significant difference in microbiological compliance among product types, highlighting cheeses as the main sanitary risk group and eggs as the most compliant with current regulations. No significant differences were observed among the evaluated municipalities. The findings suggest that, although some products exhibit satisfactory quality, there is a need for training, monitoring, and improvement of handling and storage practices in open-air markets to enhance the microbiological quality of these products.