Identification of E. coli / Coliforms in Cooked Salads sold at the “9 de Octubre” Market, Cuenca, Agosto 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Ingestion of contaminated foods can cause foodborne illnesses (FADs). The presence of E. coli and Coliforms are indicators of contamination due to poor handling. In the “9 de Octubre” Market in Cuenca, Ecuador, the microbiological quality of cooked salads was examined since it is one of the mainready-to-eat foods, preventing food spoilage and guaranteeing food safety. Objective: To determine the presence of E. coli/Coliforms in cooked salads sold in the “9 de Octubre” Market in Cuenca, August 2023. Methodology: This article was developed using an experimental design of laboratory microbiological analysis. The universe of this study is constituted by the “9 de Octubre” Market of the city of Cuenca. A group of 30 samples of cooked salads were analyzed using Compact Dry EC plates to determine E. coli/Coliforms. The presence of colony-forming units (CFU) was quantified according to INEN 1529-7 and NTS N° 071-MINSA/DIGESA/V 01 regulations. Results: The presence of E. coli/Coliforms was identified by CFU/g in the samples, exceeding the permissible limit mentioned in Peruvian regulations, determining that the sale and consumption of this food is unacceptable. Conclusion: The microbiological quality of the cooked salads on the “9 de Octubre” Market was analyzed, with evidence of sanitary risk due to the high growth of microorganisms observed on the Compact Dry EC plates. General area of study: Microbiology. Specific area of study: Bacteriology. Type of study: Original article.