The aim of the focus action was to check the hygienic status of soft ice cream and the proper, hygienic handling of soft ice cream vending machines.

54 samples from all over Austria were examined.

• Seven samples were rejected due to excessive bacterial counts (Enterobacteriaceae and mesophilic aerobic bacteria).

Many enterobacteriaceae are part of the healthy intestinal flora of humans and animals; however, they also occur everywhere in the environment (soil, water). An excessive mesophilic aerobic microbial count (bacteria, yeasts and molds) indicates hygiene deficiencies. Both the storage temperature (4 - 6 °C) and the storage period (maximum 36 hours) of the ice cream mixture in the ice cream machine and thorough cleaning of the equipment are crucial for good quality of the end product.