The effectiveness of environmental monitoring system on food safety in a organic dried fruit production premise

Objective: This study aims to examine the effectiveness of the Environmental Monitoring System in ensuring food safety in an organic dried fruit processing plant and to evaluate the microbiological quality of the final product in terms of public health. Material and Methods: In this study, microbiological analyses were conducted on a total of 300 swab samples from Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3, and Zone 4 within the scope of the environmental monitoring system, as well as 180 samples of organic dried fruits (60 dried figs, 60 dried apricots, 60 dried grapes) obtained from an organic dried fruit processing plant. Samples collected in March 2022, May 2022, July 2022, and September 2022 were subjected to microbiological analyses on the same day of collection. Result: E.coli, coliform, Enterobacteriaceae, and Salmonella spp. were not detected in the samples of organic dried fruits. All samples were found to be compliant with the Turkish Food Codex Microbiological Criteria Regulation. While the presence of Salmonella spp., E. coli, coliform, and Enterobacteriaceae was not detected in the samples collected from 4 different zones evaluated under the environmental monitoring system, it was observed throughout the study period that general hygiene conditions were maintained in the facility, as indicated by the absence of limit values in TMAB and yeast-mold analyses, although reference was made to the Microbiological Indicator Limits Recommended for Sanitation Pre- and Post-Application Equipment Cleaning provided by the Almond Board of California (2009). Conclusion: The environmental monitoring system is crucial for evaluating hygiene and sanitation practices in food establishments. Therefore, placing greater emphasis on and promoting the environmental monitoring system in the food sector will play a significant role in supporting food safety. Key Words: Environmental monitoring program, Food safety, Public health, Organic dried fruit.