Abstract

MARTINEZ-MARTINEZ, T. Olivia et al. Estimation of quality level in two production systems of cactus leaves (Opuntia sp.). Agrociencia [online]. 2012, vol.46, n.6, pp.567-578. ISSN 2521-9766.

For the microbiological analysis of cactus leaves (Opuntia spp.) there are no sampling plans for different protection levels, nor the quantification of the quality level of the product, or a statistical comparison of the consumer protection level between a production system under contamination risk reduction (CRRS) and under the traditional system (TS). Therefore, in this study the quality level was determined of a cactus leaf production system with CRRS and of TS taking an observational study as reference. The consumer protection level was estimated based on the sample sizes stipulated in sampling plans of the ICMSF (2002) and the acceptable quality level (AQL) for different protection levels in sampling plans of two and three classes. Finally, through Montecarlo simulation and Pert distribution, a comparison was made of the protection level of the consumer when buying a product of production units with CRRS and TS. It was estimated that 85 % and 40 % of boxes of cactus leaves with CRRS and TS complied with the acceptable microbiological specifications. For the systems with CRRS the protection levels were between 38.5 and 96.1 % for traditional sample sizes (3 to 20 kg). Nine sampling plans were provided with protection levels of 80, 90 and 99 %, in which the minimum AQL is defined. The Montecarlo simulation indicated that the units with CRRS provide higher protection starting with the protection level of 40 %. Sampling plans of two and three classes make it possible to design sampling plans with a required protection level and to compare statistically different production systems of cactus leaves.

Keywords : cactus leaves; acceptance sampling; Pert distribution; Montecarlo simulation.

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