Hygienic conditions of the processing environment and microbial loads of Tra fish (Pangasius hypophthalmus): Trimming step
During the processing of frozen Pangasius hypophthalmus fillets, the microbiological counts depend on the source of raw materials and processing conditions, those impact significantly on the quality of the final product. In particular, trimming is considered a high-risk step of cross-contamination during processing. This study aimed to compare and evaluate the microbial quality at trimming step in four frozen Pangasius processing factories located in the Mekong Delta region. Trimmed Pangasius fillet and contact surfaces samples (i.e., gloves and processing tools) were examined including total mesophilic counts, Coliforms, E. coli and coagulase-positive Staphylococci (Staphylococci coa+). The results showed that total mesophilic counts on trimming Pangasius processed in A, B, C and D plant were 7.1 ± 0.4; 7.5 ± 0.7; 6.7 ± 1.1 and 6.0 ± 0.4 log CFU/g, respectively. Coliforms, E. coli and Staphylococci coa+ on trimmed Pangasius ranged 4.0 - 5.1; 2.1 - 3.7 and 1.8 - 4.2 log CFU/g, respectively. Thus, proper preservation of fillets during processing is suggested. Good manufacturing practices should implement effectively to minimize the risk of cross-contamination for the trimmed fillets.