Monitoring of selected parasites and other foodborne microorganisms in vegetable products at point of sale

Abstract

It is supposed that epidemiological data linked to cases of alimentary infection from fresh produce are scarce and usually underestimated. The present study reveals data concerning the occurrence of less studied foodborne pathogens such as parasites ( Giardia intestinalis , Cryptosporidium parvum/hominis ) and viruses (norovirus, hepatitis A virus) in 175 samples of fresh-cut vegetables, frozen vegetables and sprouts. In addition, samples were also analyzed for the presence of bacterial indicators of production hygiene such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus . Our results revealed that DNA of G. intestinalis was found in two samples (1.1%) of mixed fresh vegetable salads and mixed frozen vegetables at a level of 100 CFU/g. Norovirus was detected in two samples (1.1%) of rucola and frozen mixed vegetables. No sample was positive for C. parvum/hominis or hepatitis A virus. Our results highlight the need for microbial analysis of food of non-animal origin for specific parasitic and viral agents not generally monitored in these food category types, but their presence poses risks for alimentary infection.