Copyright (c) 2026 Centros: Revista Científica Universitaria
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
Shaved ice is one of the most popular traditional beverages consumed in public spaces in Chitré, Panama; however, its informal production and sale can pose a risk to public health due to the potential presence of pathogenic microorganisms. Several national and international studies have documented contamination in ice intended for human consumption, associated with the use of non-potable water, inadequate storage, and deficiencies in handling practices. In Panama, recent health inspections have revealed irregularities in the production and sale of ice, including seizures of unregistered products in the Chitré district, highlighting the need to strengthen surveillance and control. This study evaluated the microbiological quality of shaved ice sold at informal locations in Chitré by detecting total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, using methodologies validated by the AOAC and FDA. The results revealed marked variability among the points of sale. Elevated total coliform counts were observed in samples from La Bandera Park and Centenario Park, while a sample from Herrera Park showed a critical level of S. aureus (46,000 CFU/g), indicating improper handling and a potential risk of food poisoning from performed enterotoxins. Although E. coli was absent in all samples, the presence of total coliforms and S. aureus demonstrates significant hygiene and sanitation deficiencies. These findings highlight the need to implement control measures, training in good handling practices, and specific microbiological guidelines to strengthen public health protection.
Este obra está bajo una licencia de Creative Commons Reconocimiento-NoComercial-CompartirIgual 4.0 Internacional.
