Bacteriological and Parasitological Assessment of Fruits and Vegetables Sold in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State Nigeria

This study assessed the microbial and parasitic infestation of fresh fruits and vegetables sold in two major markets in Akungba Akoko and Ikare akoko, Ondo State Nigeria. A total of 10 fruits and 10 vegetables commonly consumed by dwellers of these communities were randomly purchased from the two markets. They were washed, and examined for microbial and parasitic organisms. The predominant bacteria isolated from both fruits and vegetables included: Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus cereus, Streptococcus lactis, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecium. The parasitic eggs observed included: Capillaria hepatica, Fasciola sp., Ascaris lumbricoides, Enterobius vermicolaris and Taenia saginata while the parasitic larvae included: Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides stercoralis, Taenia sp., Fasciola sp., Ascaris lumbricoides. The parasites recovered from vegetables sold in Akungba market were more than those recovered from Ikare market. Findings from this study revealed that raw fruits and vegetables could be potential sources of microbial and parasitic infections, it is therefore essential to educate the populace on the need to inculcate the habit of thorough washing of these produce with clean water before consumption to avoid potential health risk.