2.6. Human pathogens
In terms of human health risks two indicators were utilized in this work to determine the inactivation of pathogens during composting, following the legal requirements in Europe: Salmonella spp. CFU (Colony Forming Units) in 25 g samples and Escherichia coli MPN (Most Probable Number) in 1 g samples. Human pathogen levels were determined by analyzing samples of the final compost. Salmonella spp. analysis was performed by using a technique of pre-enrichment, selective isolation and identification by automated immunoassay analyzer VIDAS (adapted from ISO 6579). E. coli analysis was performed by using the horizontal method of MPN (ISO 7251) in bright green broth, isolation on selective media and biochemical confirmation.