Introduction of Bacteriological Load of Apple Punch Drink

Introduction

It was observed that the concentrated powdered juices in Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) were much patronized by the students rather than bottled beverages.

The Apple Juice Powdered Drink is a popular term for a beverage reconstituted by adding water, with or without sugar, to a juice powder. Currently, it can be said that practically all commercially run food and drink outlets in PUP, serve these “juices” to plastic cups. These are probably used for practical reasons, to save time in preparation of juices, since they are kept in plastic cups rather than in drinking glasses. However, there have been few reports assessing the microbial conditions and physical and chemical characteristics of the powdered drinks sold from canteens in PUP.

The consumption of powdered juices in PUP has increased, mainly because consumers are looking for cheap and it has several of flavors to choose from. Apple Punch powder has to be mixed with water and serve cold. However, if the water is withdrawn from the faucet, the chance of microbial contamination is high. Also, if the ice from the distributor is not properly delivered, it can contribute in increasing the microbial load of the juices’ served. The hot and dirty environment surrounding the food and beverage stalls in PUP may also affect if the Apple Punch juice is still suitable for consumption. Besides the microorganisms specified by the Food and Drug Administration, the investigation of Staphylococcus spp. is important, to determine possible contamination.

The aim of this study was to assess the hygienic-sanitary quality and to determine the microbial load of the Apple Punch Powdered Drinks that was served in PUP canteens.