Presence of faecal coliforms and selected heavy metals in ice cubes from food outlets in Taman Universiti, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
- Author:
Mahat, N.A., Meor Ahmad, Z., Abdul Wahab, R.
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:Tropical Biomedicine
2015;32(3):471-477
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Consumption of iced beverages is common in Malaysia although specific research
focusing on its safety parameters such as presence of faecal coliforms and heavy metal
elements remains scarce. A study conducted in Kelantan indicated that faecal coliforms
were detected in the majority of the ice cube samples analyzed, largely attributable to
improper handling. Hence, it was found pertinent to conduct similar study in other parts of the
country such as Johor Bahru if the similar pattern prevailed. Therefore, this present crosssectional
study which randomly sampled ice cubes from 30 permanent food outlets in Taman
Universiti, Johor Bahru for detecting contamination by faecal coliforms and selected heavy
metal elements (lead, copper, manganese and zinc) acquires significance. Faecal coliforms
were detected in 11 (36.67%) of the samples, ranging between 1 CFU/100 mL to > 50 CFU/100
mL; two of the samples were grossly contaminated (>50 CFU/100 mL). Interestingly, while
positive detection of lead was observed in 29 of the 30 ice cube samples (mean: 0.511±0.105
ppm; range: 0.489-0.674 ppm), copper, manganese and zinc were not detected. In addition,
analysis on commercially bottled mineral water as well as in tap water samples did not detect
such contaminations. Therefore, it appears that (1) contamination of faecal coliforms in ice
cubes in food outlets in Malaysia may not be sporadic in pattern but rather prevalent and (2)
the source of water used for manufacturing the ice cubes that contained significant amount
of lead would suggest that (3) it was neither originated from the treated tap water supply nor
bottled mineral water or (4) perhaps contaminated during manufacturing process. Further
studies exploring the source of water used for manufacturing these ice cubes as well as the
handling process among food operators deserve consideration.
- Full text:W020151207569090947610.pdf
