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Fungal spoilage of bottled mineral water
Daniel Cabral1, PintoVirginiaE Fernández
1Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria, Argentina.
Abstract:
The occurrence of filamentous fungi together with bacteriological parameters was assessed in 126 samples of still bottled mineral water of eight different commercial brands in Argentina. In spoiled samples with visible mycelium growth, the most frequently isolated fungal species were Penicillium citrinum, P. glabrum, other Penicillium species, Cladosporium cladosporioides and Alternaria alternata. In unspoiled samples, the genera found were Penicillium, Cladosporium, Rhizopus, Aspergillus and Phoma. Only three of the 126 samples failed to meet the required microbiological standards because they were found to contain faecal streptococci.
Insights
Filamentous fungi were detected in bottled mineral water in Argentina. While most samples were safe, a few contained faecal streptococci, indicating potential contamination risks.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Food Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Bottled mineral water is a widely consumed beverage susceptible to microbial contamination.
- Filamentous fungi can impact water quality and indicate potential spoilage or contamination.
- Assessing fungal presence alongside bacteriological parameters is crucial for ensuring water safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and types of filamentous fungi in bottled mineral water.
- To evaluate bacteriological parameters in conjunction with fungal contamination.
- To determine the microbiological safety of commercial bottled mineral water brands in Argentina.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 126 still bottled mineral water samples from eight commercial brands.
- Microbiological assessment including isolation and identification of filamentous fungi.
- Bacteriological testing for parameters such as faecal streptococci.
Main Results:
- Spoiled samples with visible mycelium growth frequently yielded Penicillium citrinum, P. glabrum, Cladosporium cladosporioides, and Alternaria alternata.
- Unspoiled samples contained fungal genera including Penicillium, Cladosporium, Rhizopus, Aspergillus, and Phoma.
- Only three of 126 samples did not meet microbiological standards due to the presence of faecal streptococci.
Conclusions:
- Filamentous fungi are present in bottled mineral water, with specific species associated with spoilage.
- While most samples met microbiological standards, the presence of faecal streptococci in a few highlights potential contamination pathways.
- Routine microbiological monitoring is essential for maintaining the safety and quality of bottled mineral water.