Análisis microbiológico de diferentes dietas de alimento crudo biológicamente apropiado (BARF) destinadas a caninos y felinos de la ciudad de Guayaquil.

Abstract

The objective of this research work was to analyze the microbiological quality of 29 BARF diets from 12 brands intended for dogs and cats in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador. Microbiological analyses were performed using culture media to isolate Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and mesophilic aerobes. In addition, it was evaluated whether these diets represent a risk to animal and public health, based on the AGROCALIDAD regulations that establish limits of 1 x 102 CFU/g of Escherichia coli, 1 x 106 CFU/mL of mesophilic aerobes and the absence of Salmonella spp. Finally, it was analyzed whether there was a relationship between the microbial load and the commercial house, the place of acquisition, the type of processed and protein in the diet and the obtaining of a generator and sanitary registration. The results showed that Escherichia coli was isolated in 79 % of the diets and Salmonella spp., in 100 %, failing to comply with the ranges established in the current AGROCALIDAD regulations. Listeria monocytogenes was also identified in 59 % of the diets, however, the regulation does not delimit ranges for this bacteria. On the other hand, mesophilic aerobes were present in 100 % of the samples, but their detected levels were within the permitted limit. Finally, it was determined that there is a significant relationship between the variables studied and the microbial load, except for the type of diet preparation, the obtaining of a generator and sanitary registration.