Molecular Detection of Virulence Genes in Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica Isolated from Minimally Processed Foods Sold within Kaduna Metropolis

Minimally processed foods are widely consumed in Kaduna, Nigeria and the world at large. However, poor quality control during their processing make them prone to contamination by enteropathogens known possess multiple virulence genes, possibly causing morbidities mortalities. Investigating prevalence genes of food-borne bacteria is therefore paramount. This study was aimed detecting enteropathogenic associated with minimally sold within Kaduna metropolis. Samples sliced watermelons, peeled sugarcanes, pineapples unshelled coconuts (n=140) were collected from North, South Igabi LGAs. Upon enrichment, samples inoculated onto Eosin-Methylene Blue (EMB) Cefixime-Tellurite-Sorbitol MacConkey (CT-SMAC) agar incubated for 18 hours 35oC. Isolates identified using MicrobactTM 24E Gram Negative Bacteria Identification System Enterobacteriaceae. Thereafter, E. coli Salmonella enterica isolates’ DNA extracted purified AccuPrep Genomic Extraction Kit; used as a template PCR amplification bundle forming pilus (bfpA) invasion (invA) genes; then products visualised agarose gel electrophoresis documentation system. The results analyses showed widespread (22 isolates) (3 isolates). There no statistically significant difference bacterial contaminants isolated various sampling areas (one-way ANOVA: p = 0.577); similarly, type food had influence on isolates (p 0.345). result revealed that invA gene (284bp) present one isolate. presence isolate indicated virulent strain, which can cause infections. These fruits enteropathogens, hence, standards should be enshrined, towards safer enhanced health consuming populace.