Microbiological decontamination of thyme meal by gamma irradiation

Abstract

The porpose of the study was to determine the effect of gamma irradiation on microbial load of thyme meal for decontamination, improving the quality characteristics, and rnhancing the health properties. Since the thyme meal as local (Syrian) ethnic ready to eat meals (foods). Effect of 15 kGy gamma irradiation using a cobalt-60 source on decontamination and on composition and chemical characteristics of thyme meal was investigated. Health properties and safety of thym meal were determined by measuring the total viable count (TVC), total mould and yeast

count (TMYC), and total coliform count (TCC). The microbial loads of thyme meal were exceeded the levels reported by national nd international standards. TVC, TCC, and TYMC was significantly (P<0.05) reduced with irradiation at 15 kGy. After the application of 15 kGy irradiation process had a significant effect for decontamination of thyme meal, and the initial TVC, MYC and TC in thyme meal samples treated with 15 kGy were below the level of detection (less than 1 cfu g^-1). Gamma irradiation had no effect on the approximate compositon including moisture, protein, fat, and sugar. Also, Gamma irradiation had no effect on acidity, and volatile basic nitrogen values of thyme meal. The results of the present study indicated that 15 kGy of gamma irradiation suggest an applicable method for decontamination preserving, and enhancing the saety or thyme meal.