PARASITOLOGICAL CONTAMINATION EVALUATION OF ARUGULA (Eruca sativa) MARKETED IN ERECHIM-RS, BRAZIL

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the presence of enteroparasites in arugula (Eruca sativa) commercialized in Erechim, RS. In the period from March to May 2013 were analyzed, through spontaneous sedimentation method, 40 samples, obtained from markets. Among the argulas analysed, 22.5 showed contamination with trophozoites and/or cysts of amoeba. Eggs or larvae of pathogenic helminths were not found in the analysed samples. Vegetables consumed without previous cooking can present standard of sanitary and hygienic quality inadequate, condition that emphasizes the need for greater guidance to producers and handlers, with regard to its correct handling and hygiene.