Bacterial Contamination and Multi-drug Resistance in Lettuce Leaves: A Case Study from Abakiliki Metropolis, Nigeria
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Abstract
Lactuca sativa is widespread consumption without adequate heat treatment makes it a potential vehicle for the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms, to the uses. The aim of this study was to assess bacterial contamination and multidrug-resistant bacteria in lettuce leaves sold in Abakaliki metropolis Nigeria. A total of 20 leafy lettuce samples were purchased in Hausa Quarter Market of Abakaliki, and were analyzed using standard microbiology procedures. The bacterial isolates were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer method. The results revealed that the total aerobic plate counts were within the range of 2.2 × 106 to 8.4 × 106cfu/g, with the average mean of 3.8 x106cfu/g. Six different bacteria species were identified there included Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas species, Salmonella species, Shigella species, Staphylococcus aureus And Proteus species. The Percentage occurrence of isolates highlights that Escherichia coli 7(28%) had the highest occurrence Staphylococcus aureus 5(20%) Pseudomonas species and Shigella species 4(16%) each. Salmonella species and Proteus species recorded 3 (12%) and 2(8%) respectively. The result obtained from antibiotic susceptibility of bacterial isolates revealed that E. coli showed 100% resistant to CIP, CTX, AMC, CAZ, W, AMP, CRO and SXT. Salmonella spp, Pseudomonas spp., Shigella spp and S. aureus equally showed 100% resistant to CTX, AMC, CAZ, W and AMP. S. aureus showed 100% resistant to IPM and CRO. Proteus spp. showed 100% resistant to CIP, CTX, AMC, CAZ, W and AMP. The six bacterial isolates had an average MARI value of 0.57. Presence of pathogenic organisms, and significant antibiotic resistance patterns observed in this study indicate poor hygienic practices and a high risk of public health hazards associated with the consumption of lettuce sold in Hausa Quarter markets.
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