DETERMINATION OF BACTERIA ASSOCIATED WITH SLICED FRUITS SOLD AT AZARE MARKET (ESCHERICHIA COLI)

Abstract Bacteria present on fruits can be categorized into spoilage bacteria, which cause the fruits to decay, and pathogenic bacteria, which pose direct health risks to consumers. The primary aim of this study is to determine the bacterial species associated with sliced fruits sold at Azare Market and assess the potential health risks posed by these microorganisms to consumers. The Specific Objectives are: To determine the microbial load on sliced fruits sold at Azare Market, To assess the hygiene practices of vendors selling sliced fruits sold at Azare Market. A total of 20 samples of sliced fruits was randomly collected from different vendors selling pre-sliced fruits in Azare Market. Ten grams (10g) of each sample was measured with the aid of a weighing balance and subsequently transferred into a blender. Ninety millilitres (90ml) of distilled water was thereafter added and the mixture homogenized at the speed of 15,000 for 3minutes. Serial dilution was performed (10⁻¹ to 10⁻³). 1ml from each dilution will be plated using the pour plate method on Nutrient Agar (NA). Identification of bacterial isolates was done using Gram stain technique and biochemical test such as catalase, indole, citrate utilization, oxidase, methyl red and Voges- Proskauer test