Estimation of Microbial Contamination in Fresh and Commercial Fruit Juices: A Comparative Study

Aim and Objective: The objective of the present study is to determine microbial contamination in fresh and packaged commercial fruit juices (including a combination of Aloe vera with fruit juices) available in the Ahmedabad city of Gujarat, India.

Materials and Methods: Seventeen samples were collected from various parts of the city which includes 9 commercial fruit juice samples and 8 street vended fresh fruit juice samples. Samples were examined for Total plate count, Yeast and mould count, coliform count, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella, Enterobacteriaceae, Listeria monocytogens and Vibrio Cholerae.

Results: Commercial fruit juices do not exceed the FSSAI standards for fruit juices and are free of harmful pathogens making themsafe for human consumption. Street vended fresh fruit juice samples exceedthe FSSAI limit for Total Plate count, Yeast and mould count and Coliform count. Street vended Fresh fruit juices demonstratethepresence of Ecoli, Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus in 75% (6/8) samples. Enterobacteriaceae were identified in street vended fruit juices which exceeds the FSSAI standard limit.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that commercial fruit juices were safe for human consumption but fresh juices showed significant microbial growth and harmful pathogens which must be controlled to ensure consumer’s safety and health. However regular monitoring of commercial and fresh fruit juices is recommended to avoid food borne illness resulting from pathogens encountered in the study.