Abstract:
Aim : Examine the presence or absence of enteric pathogens; Salmonella and Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia Coli, and the pathogenic Listeria in leafy greens from markets and farms in Béjaïa and analyze the quality of water and soil which could be potential sources of contamination.
Methods : A total of 175 samples of lettuce, parsley, coriander, celery and mint; irrigation water and soil were collected from farms and greenmarkets. After isolation, the strains were identified using a set of biochemical tests, identification mediums, and the gallery API 20E.
Results : 0% prevalence was found of enteric bacteria specifically EHEC, Listeria, and Salmonella from the samples analysed. Instead, four opportunistic bacteria were identified; Aeromonas salmonicida, E.hermannii, Phtobacterium damselae, and Cedecea davisae found in parsley, coriander, and 2 celery samples. A 0% occurrence was also observed in soil and irrigation water.
Conclusion : Despite using a suitable quality control protocol, we were unable to detect any enteric bacteria and rather discovered opportunistic Gram-negative bacteria in celery, parsley and coriander. This outcome suggests good hygienic practices and handling methods by farmers and vendors, moreover, the variations in contamination including the quantity and types of samples, and seasonal differences which may all have contributed to the absence of the targeted microorganisms.
