Microbiological monitoring in the public catering sector

The hygienic-sanitary condition of products in some catering services in Salerno (Italy) were evaluated. The sampling done between July 2003 and July 2004 included mixed salad, sandwiches, ice cream and pastry products. No pathogens were detected in the food tested. In terms of total coliforms non compliance of the products was in the following order: Mixed salads (87%)>Pastry (86%)>Ice cream (67%)>sandwiches (30%), while for total plate count only 28% of the mixed salad samples did not comply with the regulations in force. It is concluded that more detailed education of the staff and more controls should be promoted for effective food quality control.