Use of Antimicrobial Dips for the reduction of surface microbial load of fresh fruits sold in South Delhi Markets, India

Fruits and vegetables are exceptional dietary source of nutrients, micronutrients, vitamins and fibre for human beings hence vital for health and fitness. Well balanced foods, rich in fruits and vegetables, are especially valuable for their ability to prevent deficiencies of vitamin C and vitamin A and also reduce the risk of several diseases (Kalia and Gupta, 2006). These fruits and vegetables promote good health; they harbor a wide range of microbial contaminants, thus undermining their nutritional and health benefits, thereby increasing outbreaks of human infections associated with the consumption of fresh (or minimally processed) fruits and vegetables (Hedberg et al; 1994; Altekruse and Swerdlow, 1996; Beuchat, 1996, Beuchat, 1998, Beuchat, 2002). ISSN: 2319-7706 Volume 3 Number 6 (2014) pp. 128-138 http://www.ijcmas.com

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