A Microbiologia como ferramenta de extensão para a educação em saúde

Abstract

Microbiology is an essential science for assessing the quality and, therefore, food safety. The quality of milk and dairy products influences consumer health and the livelihood of small producers. Extension activities are fundamental for raising awareness and training all chain stakeholders. This work aimed to report on an experience of using microbiology as a health education tool in rural extension to improve the quality of milk and its derivatives. Microbiological analyses were conducted on water, cow teats, the ambient air, hands and clothes of employees, mobile phones, hair and beards. The producers accompanied the collection of samples to understand the analyses better. Afterwards, they received a report with photos of the results of the analyses, making it easier to see the contamination and discuss the data. A dialogue was held to guide those involved on opportunities for improvement and resolving non-conformities. The producers felt that the methodology helped them to understand the aspects that interfere with milking hygiene and the cheese-making process. Microbiology has proved to be an important and functional tool for bringing knowledge to the producer and can be an ally for improving the quality of milk and dairy products. In addition, the photographic material obtained in this study can help train other producers without resources to conduct laboratory analyses.