Investigation of Coliform Bacteria and Escherichia coli in Beverages in Unsealed Containers Sold around Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University, Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the contamination of coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli in beverages in unsealed containers sold around Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University. Samples were analyzed with Compact Dry EC for E. Coli and Coliform Test Kit. A total of 20 samples of 8 types of beverages from 4 stalls were collected. The analytical results revealed that coliform bacteria contaminated in 8 samples (40.00%) from 2 stalls (50.00%). However, E. coli was not detected in all samples. The beverage shops are constructed without pest prevention. As a result, flies which are disease carriers were found in these areas. The hygienic aspects of food handlers showed that none of them wore aprons and disposable gloves (100.00%), one of them put on a catering hair net (25.00 %), three wear face masks (75.00%) and all of them washed hands before handling (100.00 %). The coliform bacteria presence in beverage indicates that the drinks low quality and unsafe for consuming due to disease-causing pathogens could be in the beverage, resulting in foodborne disease. The cause of microorganism contamination is inadequate the food sanitation. To avoid the risk of foodborne and waterborne disease, consumers should concern about purchasing beverages stalls which are hygienic and clean.