Evaluation of the antimicrobial capacity of Hass avocado seed extract (Persea americana) for potential application in the meat industry

Abstract

NaNO₂ is used in meat products to inhibit pathogenic microorganisms; its use is limited, and it forms carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds. There is currently a great demand for natural products. The Hass avocado seed extract produces an antimicrobial reaction against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. After the seed of the Hass avocado (AS) had been dehydrated at 50°C for 10 hours, we undertook a quality and analysis of the moisture and microbiological test. The extract was obtained in hot water and in solvents to perform an antimicrobial sensitivity test, which is an inhibition halo test using the strain Staphylococcus aureus as microorganisms. A minimum capacity inhibition test was also carried out. The concentration of the extract by solvents was 7 mg/mL, and it presented an inhibition halo of 1.8mm.The combination of AS and nitrites caused oxidation and darkening in the halos. The compounds that were extracted from the Hass avocado seeds with the methods used are not effective against S. aureus.