Bactericidal action of essential oil from Citrus aurantium seeds, C. sinensis, C. reticulata

Abstract

This research was carried out with the objective of verifying the bactericidal action of the essential oil of seeds of C. aurantium. L., C. sinensis. L. C. reticulata. L., against the strains Escherichia coli (ATCC) 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC) 25923, representative for Gram positive and Gram negative, with the oils at different concentrations using the Kirby-Bauer and modified agar well method. The fruits and vegetables selected are used for the preparation of salads, soups, sauces, juices and desserts, considering that they can be contaminated from harvest and transferred to other phases, such as processing, packaging, transportation, marketing and even in the preparation of the product. Once the different concentrations of oils were used in the washing of fruits and vegetables, the shelf life was verified by monitoring the conditions of time, temperature and exposure to light. The research was carried out with the purpose of elaborating a product for domestic use, proving that the essential oil C. reticulada. L., has greater antimicrobial activity against both bacterial strains. And finally, when applied in the washing of fruits and vegetables, it showed a reduction of the microbial load and an increase in the shelf life.