Contrôle de la qualité microbiologique et physico-chimique de la boisson artisanale Londo à base de Mondia whitei ((Hook. f.) Skeels) (Apocynaceae)

Abstract

Control of the microbiological and physico-chemical quality of Londo, a Mondia wethei (Hook. f.) skeels) (Apocynaceae) based beverage

Artisanal beverage based on Mondia whitei sold in Kinshasa and its surroundings is presented under several brands names: Londocass, Londokaps, Londowuss, and Londosas.
Analysis of microbiological parameters of these beverages showed microbial contamination in Londokaps and Londosas. The beverage conditioned in plastic bottles was found more exposed to contamination by Escherichia coli (31.25 %) than that in glass bottles (18.75 %). The alcohol level indicated on the bottle labels (15%) differs from that actually measured (12 to 19%). Methanol was detected in some samples of Londokaps and Londosas. Terpenoids not identified in the roots of Mondia whitei and mango leaves were present in Londokaps
and Londowuss. This implies lack of compliance to norms during manufacturing and storage processes of these drinks, therefore hygienic measures and regular monitoring need to be taken in order to detect sources of contamination and protect consumers.