engleski

Radiation treatment of herb tea for the reduction of microbial contamination (Flores chamomillae)

A survey of microbiological contamination of dried chamomile flowers indicates the presence of thermophilic bacteria up to the level of 104 per gram. This material often contains insecticides which have been used to reduce post-harvest losses. This work was undertaken in order to study the feasibility of radiation treatment of dried chamomile flowers as the only acceptable process for reduction of microbial contamination and as an alternative to chemical treatment. The main microbial contaminants were identified and typical contamination levels established. Survival curves of the irradiated microflora were obtained as a function of gamma radiation dose. Chemical composition of chamomile oil was followed by spectroscopy, thin layer and gas chromatography. No untoward effects of radiation treatment on active components were found, which indicates the usefulness of radiation treatment of dry flowers.

Dried chamomile flowers ; indentification of microbial contamination ; typical contamination levels ; decontamination by gamma irradiation

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