High Prevalence of multidrug resistant common foodborne bacteria in raw beef and ready-to-eat samples from Dhaka City Corporations, Bangladesh

Abstract

Food safety in red meat value chain is a critical concern globally, with implications for both public health and economic stability. In the context of Bangladesh, a country with a burgeoning population and a significant reliance on red meat consumption, understanding the complexities of zoonosis, identifying the associated microbes, and addressing the AMR risk is paramount. This study investigates the prevalence of common foodborne pathogens and their multidrug resistance (MDR) patterns in raw beef and ready-to-eat (RTE) samples from Dhaka City Corporations, Bangladesh. Bacterial isolates from 60 raw beef and 60 RTE samples were identified using culturing and PCR-based molecular detection methods. The prevalence rates of E. coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., S. aureus, Listeria spp., and Campylobacter spp. were determined, along with their antibiotic susceptibility profiles following CLSI guidelines. The study revealed that in raw beef samples, the prevalence of E. coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., S. aureus, Listeria spp., and Campylobacter spp. were 25%, 46.67%, 66.67%, 96.67%, 66.67%, and 40%, respectively. In RTE samples, the occurrence rates were 30%, 3.33%, 15%, 25%, 21.67%, and 23.33%, respectively. Total viable and individual counts exceeded Bangladesh Food Safety Authority standards. Most isolates exhibited MDR, underlining the need for enhanced hygiene during beef processing and RTE preparation. The study addresses a knowledge gap, highlighting the public health risks linked with foodborne pathogens and the emergence of MDR. This research contributes to better food safety measures and awareness, safeguarding public health in urban settings like Dhaka, Bangladesh.