Microbiological lettuce quality evaluation from traditional, organic and hydroponic growing process

Objective of the study: to evaluate the microbiological quality of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in three different cultivation: organic, hydroponic and traditional. Sixty lettuce samples commercialized in Videira – SC were analyzed. Microorganisms investigated: Salmonella spp., Listeria spp., total coliforms e Escherichia coli. The results showed the absence of Salmonella spp. for all samples. Present of Listeria spp. was found in 16,7% of the samples. Total coliforms e Escherichia coli count varied from <1x101 - 2,8x105 and <1x101 - 1x103, respectively. Traditional and hydroponic farming lettuce samples presented 100% of total coliforms. Escherichia coli analysis occurred in 22,2% of the samples traditional farming, 11,1% hydroponic farming and none in organic farming vegetables. Statistically, we found no significant relation between microbiological contamination and king of growing used in the vegetables production. The strains of the Listeria, total coliforms and Escherichia coli found in the samples indicated hygienic and sanitary quality and so it is important that good hygiene practices are taken from the manufacturing process until the moment of consumption.