Occurrence of coagulase‐positive <i>Staphylococci</i>, microbial indicators and physical–chemical characteristics of traditional semihard cheese produced in Brazil

Abstract

Coagulase‐positive Staphylococci and microbial indicators of the ‘Requeijão do Norte’, a traditional semihard cheese, were surveyed in Brazil. Coagulase‐positive Staphylococci were found in quantities of up to 9.4 log cfu/g. The coagulase gene was detected in isolates physiologically classified as coagulase‐negative. The SEB and TSST‐1 toxins were detected. Salmonella spp. were not detected. High levels of total and fecal coliforms (≥ 210 MPN/g) and moulds (≥ 6.48 log cfu/g) were found in most samples. The values of physical–chemical parameters and water activity showed the greatest variations. These results suggest a possible risk that this cheese may pose to consumers.