Change of Microbiological Quality according to Various Storage Conditions in the Drinking Process of Bottled Mineral Water

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate changes in microbiological quality according to various storage conditions in the drinking process of bottled mineral water. Methods: Heterotrophic plate counts ($21^{\circ}C$ and $36^{\circ}C$) and pathogenic indicators (total coliforms, fecal Streptococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Clostridium perfringens, Salmonella, and Shigella) were analyzed in commercial bottled mineral water stored under different conditions ($4^{\circ}C$, $20-25^{\circ}C$, $36^{\circ}C$) after injecting saliva. The heterotrophic plate counts were analyzed twice per day for the first week and once per day for the three weeks after. Pathogenic indicators were analyzed at the beginning and end (initial and final). Results: The results of the microbiological quality of the bottled mineral water in contact with saliva showed that heterotrophic plate counts ($21^{\circ}C$) had a tendency to be sustained or decrease slightly after 10 days. Heterotrophic plate counts ($36^{\circ}C$) had a high population in the initial samples and gradually decreased at $4^{\circ}C$ storage, but it remained constantly high in storage at $20-25^{\circ}C$ and $36^{\circ}C$. In the general drinking condition, the population was slightly higher than the control, but the overall trend was similar. Conclusions: As a result of the microbiological quality of mineral bottled water in contact with saliva during the process of drinking, heterotrophic plate counts ($21^{\circ}C$ and $36^{\circ}C$) showed a high population compared to the control, which was only opened and not in contact with saliva. In some samples, pathogenic indicators were also detected. Therefore, it is desirable to consume bottled mineral water as soon as possible after opening.

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