ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF FUNGI AND PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF FRESH TOMATOES SOLD IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLITAN COUNCIL

This study investigates the fungal contamination responsible for the deterioration of tomatoes sold at Monday Market, Maiduguri, Borno State. Post-harvest losses from tomatoes are a huge challenge in Borno State. This study was designed to identify fungal pathogens responsible for postharvest spoilage of tomato fruits in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. Tomato fruits showing symptoms of decay were obtained from four (4) markets namely; The objectives included identifying the fungal species, assessing their prevalence, and creating awareness about the public health risks associated with fungal contamination. Samples were collected from four vendors, labeled A, B, C, and D, and analyzed using Potato Dextrose Agar for fungal isolation. Four species were identified: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, and Aspergillus fumigatus, with A. terreus and A. fumigatus being the most prevalent (70 isolates each). Results highlighted improper handling and unhygienic conditions as major contributors to contamination. Based on these findings, it was observed that perishable food such as tomato are susceptible to spoilage by fungi probably because the spores of these organisms are easily transmitted via the air which could lead to spoilage of these vegetables. The study recommends that thorough washing and storage of the vegetables at the appropriate temperatures should be carried out to minimize the level of contamination.