Date of Completion

6-2019

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

Ice, bacteria, Food Contamination, food stalls, microbial detection, handling practices, sanitary practices, hygienic practices

Abstract

Microbial organisms or microbes occupy a broad variety of regions in almost all ecological systems of the world. In the Philippines, food stalls are normally set-up beside the street where it is vulnerable to environmental pollutants. This study detected the presence of bacteria in two food stalls along the Congressional Avenue of Dasmariñas City, Cavite. The study also determined the significant difference between the detected bacterial colony count in relation to the handling practices employed by the food stalls. A random sampling of two food stalls was conducted, the researchers obtained 3 ice samples from each food stall. The food stalls were also inspected using a validated survey form regarding handling practices, hygiene, and environmental condition. The samples obtained are sealed in a sterile container and allowed to melt for 2 hours after collection. A ten-fold serial dilution was performed and the last three dilutions were plated and incubated at 37.5oC for 24 hours. Among the six samples obtained, one sample from Store A tested positive for total coliform (M = 2.16 x 105 cfu/ml). Statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the means of the samples obtained from store A and store B. In terms of handling practices, Store B was found out to have better practices than Store A with 53% (n=8) observed good practices and 20% (n=3) respectively. These results indicate the possible relationship between the handling practices employed by food stalls and the quality of the ice they serve.

First Advisor

Pauline L. Cueno

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