Microbiological stability of chocolate confectionery products
could be compromised in the search for alternative (non-alcoholic
or “clean label”) formulations. Xerophilic fungi are potential
spoilage organisms of these chocolate confectionery fillings. These
organisms may originate either in the factory environment or in the
ingredients used. Results of this study in seven Belgian companies
demonstrate rather low levels of fungal spores present in the
confectionery factory environment. Among the ingredients investigated,
nuts seem to represent an important source of contamination.
Penicillium, particularly P. brevicompactum, was most
dominantly present in the factory environment. Nuts were shown
to be mostly contaminated by Eurotium, specifically with the species
E. repens. Further research is needed to examine whether these
frequently occurring fungal species are of concern for the quality
and shelf life of chocolate confectionery products.