Isolation and Identification of Microbial Flora from Fresh Vegetable (Brinjal and Tomato) and Fruit (Apple and Mango) Samples Found in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh

Abstract

Fresh fruits and vegetables are a significant part of the human diet worldwide. However, since they are characteristically consumed raw in many parts of the world and often without suitable thermal treatment or rigorous washing, they are prone to serve as vectors for the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms which are often associated with severe human diseases , affecting majority of population .The current study aimed at isolating and identifying the microbial flora found in fresh fruits (Mango and Apple) and vegetable (Tomato and Brinjal)samples sold in the local open markets of Bilaspur city, Chhattisgarh. The samples were collected under strict aseptic conditions from different retail vendors. Specific selective and non-selective culture media, including Nutrient Agar, Potato Dextrose Agar, MacConkey Agar, and Eosin Methylene Blue Agar, were used to isolate and enumerate the microbial load. All the isolated species were further identified on the basis of their morphological characteristics, selective differential culture media, and biochemical tests (IMViC). The findings specified that the fresh produce was severely contaminated with numerous bacterial and fungal strains. This high microbial load suggested unhygienic handling practices and environmental contamination in the local markets. These findings highlight a serious public health concern for the people of the Bilaspur region and emphasize the need to create an extensive awareness regarding proper hygienic practices during the harvesting, distribution, selling, and consumption of fresh produce.