ISOLATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF STREET VENDED FOODS IN IKEJI ARAKEJI, OSUN STATE

This study investigated the isolation and characterisation of microorganisms associated with street vended foods in Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State. Street foods are widely consumed because of their affordability and accessibility; however, poor hygienic practices during preparation and handling may expose consumers to foodborne pathogens. The study aimed to isolate, identify, and characterise bacteria present in selected street vended foods sold within the study area. Samples of commonly consumed street foods were collected from different vendors within Ikeji-Arakeji using sterile containers and transported to the laboratory for microbiological analysis. Standard microbiological methods were employed for the isolation and identification of bacterial organisms. The samples were cultured on appropriate media, incubated, and examined for colony morphology. Biochemical tests such as Gram staining, catalase test, citrate test, indole test, and coagulase test were carried out to characterise the isolates.