Microbiological quality assessment of fresh tilapia marketed in the Federal District and of the ice used for its conservation

Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is the most cultivated and consumed freshwater fish in Brazil. The present study aimed to evaluate microbiological quality of ice fresh tilapia samples commercialized Federal District. were tested for counts mesophilic psychrotrophic bacteria, determination total thermotolerant coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus presence Salmonella. Ice analyzed coliforms Escherichia coli. Of 20 analyzed, ten (50%) presented Salmonella (genetically confirmed through invA gene) and, therefore, unfit consumption. S. was found 11 (55%), one sample fillet (3.15 CFU/g) above limit allowed by Brazilian legislation (3 log CFU/g). colonies detection CoA gene molecular analysis. 14 12 (85.7%) use conservation due 9 (64.3%) also contaminated with coliforms. E. coli isolated from 6 (42.9%) analysis amplification MalB gene. In conclusion, high contamination used its indicates need better hygienic practices production chain, increase safety.