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Yass R, Mohammed S, Jalal T, Hamzah H. Evaluation of physiochemical, heavy metals, and bacteriological parameters of celery and its irrigation water within Sulaymaniyah city of Iraq. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:483. [PMID: 38683410 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12650-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
This study rigorously assesses the physicochemical, heavy metal concentrations, and bacteriological parameters of celery and its irrigation water across three rural areas of Sulaymaniyah city, Iraq. The investigation revealed that irrigation water's pH ranged significantly from 6.9 to 8.9. Notably, phosphate concentrations (PO43-) exceeded permissible levels in Tanjaro and Kanaswra across all seasons, with the highest recorded concentration being 10.4 mg L-1 during autumn in Kanaswra. Conversely, sulfate (SO42-) and sodium (Na+) concentrations remained within standard limits, with SO42- peaking at 115.1 mg L-1 in Tanjaro during summer. Celery samples reflected high Na+ concentrations in some seasons, with values exceeding 570 mg·kg in Kanaswra during summer. Heavy metal analysis indicated remarkably low levels in irrigation water, yet celery samples from Tanjaro and Aziz Awa exhibited Pb concentrations above the safety threshold of 0.3 mg·kg in all seasons. Furthermore, bacterial contamination, including total aerobic count and coliform in both water and celery, surpassed standard limits, highlighting significant health risks. This study underscores the imperative need for stringent water treatment processes to mitigate contamination and safeguard agricultural productivity and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafeef Yass
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Sherko Mohammed
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Trifa Jalal
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Haider Hamzah
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
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Shehata M, Zaid SM, Al-Goul ST, Shami A, Al Syaad KM, Ahmed AE, Mostafa YS, Al-Quwaie DA, Ashkan MF, Alqahtani FS, Hassan YA, Taha TF, El-Tarabily KA, AbuQamar SF. Integrated management of groundwater quantity, physicochemical properties, and microbial quality in West Nile delta using a new MATLAB code and geographic information system mapping. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7762. [PMID: 38565529 PMCID: PMC10987591 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57036-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Groundwater is an excellent alternative to freshwater for drinking, irrigation, and developing arid regions. Agricultural, commercial, industrial, residential, and municipal activities may affect groundwater quantity and quality. Therefore, we aimed to use advanced methods/techniques to monitor the piezometric levels and collect groundwater samples to test their physicochemical and biological characteristics. Our results using software programs showed two main types of groundwater: the most prevalent was the Na-Cl type, which accounts for 94% of the groundwater samples, whereas the Mg-Cl type was found in 6% of samples only. In general, the hydraulic gradient values, ranging from medium to low, could be attributed to the slow movement of groundwater. Salinity distribution in groundwater maps varied between 238 and 1350 mg L-1. Although lower salinity values were observed in northwestern wells, higher values were recorded in southern ones. The collected seventeen water samples exhibited brackish characteristics and were subjected to microbial growth monitoring. Sample WD12 had the lowest total bacterial count (TBC) of 4.8 ± 0.9 colony forming unit (CFU mg L-1), while WD14 had the highest TBC (7.5 ± 0.5 CFU mg L-1). None of the tested water samples, however, contained pathogenic microorganisms. In conclusion, the current simulation models for groundwater drawdown of the Quaternary aquifer system predict a considerable drawdown of water levels over the next 10, 20, and 30 years with the continuous development of the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Shehata
- Geology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Samir M Zaid
- Geology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Soha T Al-Goul
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, 21911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashwag Shami
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid M Al Syaad
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Ezzat Ahmed
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdelaziz for Environmental Research and Natural Resources Sustainability Center, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasser S Mostafa
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
| | - Diana A Al-Quwaie
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science and Arts, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, 21911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mada F Ashkan
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science and Arts, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, 21911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah S Alqahtani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha, 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yusuf A Hassan
- Geology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Taha F Taha
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Khaled A El-Tarabily
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Synan F AbuQamar
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates.
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Viviers SA, Richter L, du Plessis EM, Korsten L. Microbiological quality of irrigation water on highly diverse fresh produce smallholder farms: elucidating environmental routes of contamination. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae091. [PMID: 38632044 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the microbiological safety, potential multidrug-resistant bacterial presence and genetic relatedness (DNA fingerprints) of Escherichia coli isolated from the water-soil-plant nexus on highly diverse fresh produce smallholder farms. METHODS AND RESULTS Irrigation water (n = 44), soil (n = 85), and fresh produce (n = 95) samples from six smallholder farms with different production systems were analysed for hygiene indicator bacterial counts and the presence of shigatoxigenic E. coli and Salmonella spp. using standard microbiological methods. Identities of isolates were confirmed using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and the genetic relatedness of the E. coli isolates determined using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR) analysis. Irrigation water E. coli levels ranged between 0 and 3.45 log MPN/100 ml-1 with five farms having acceptable levels according to the World Health Organization limit (3 log MPN/100 ml-1). Fresh produce samples on four farms (n = 65) harboured E. coli at low levels (<1 log CFU/g-1) except for one sample from kale, spring onion, green pepper, onion, and two tomato samples, which exceeded international acceptable limits (100 CFU/g-1). Only one baby carrot fresh produce sample tested positive for Salmonella spp. Of the 224 samples, E. coli isolates were identified in 40% (n = 90) of all water, soil, and fresh produce types after enrichment. Additionally, the DNA fingerprints of E. coli isolates from the water-soil-plant nexus of each respective farm clustered together at high similarity values (>90%), with all phenotypically characterized as multidrug-resistant. CONCLUSIONS The clustering of E. coli isolated throughout the water-soil-plant nexus, implicated irrigation water in fresh produce contamination. Highlighting the importance of complying with irrigation water microbiological quality guidelines to limit the spread of potential foodborne pathogens throughout the fresh produce supply chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheldon A Viviers
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Loandi Richter
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Erika M du Plessis
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Lise Korsten
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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Chandel S, Kaur H, Benbi DK, Singh D, Kaur M, Singh K. Reflecting on changes in the drinking and irrigation water quality of rivers Beas, Satluj and confluence waters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:126132-126147. [PMID: 38008842 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30849-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Prevention and control of water pollution for maintaining and restoring the wholesomeness of rivers are unavoidable. The current water quality approach of designated best use has some limitations such as it is non-integrative and inflexible with regard to the consideration of variables and does not provide a separate rating scale for a given designated use. We thus used water quality index approach proposed by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME WQI) to evaluate and develop a separate rating system for drinking and irrigation purposes of rivers Beas, Satluj and their confluence water of the Indian Punjab using information collected over 4 years (2016 to 2019). River Beas exhibited better water quality compared to river Satluj for irrigation as well as for drinking. The overall drinking water quality index (DWQI) for Beas was marginal (45.5), whereas it was poor for Satluj (37.7) and confluence waters (40.1). The spatial variation in DWQI was greater for Satluj compared to Beas and confluence waters reflecting the effect of dumping of untreated industrial and domestic waste waters. Variables such as Total coliform (T. coli), dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity and biological oxygen demand (BOD) contributed to the deterioration of DWQI. The irrigation water quality index (IWQI) was good for Beas (86), marginal for Satluj (60.1) and fair for confluence waters (71.2). Faecal coliform (F. coli), Kelly ratio (KR) and %Na contributed to the deterioration of IWQI. Calcium-magnesium-bicarbonate (Ca-Mg-HCO3) was the dominant water type in Beas and confluence waters, whereas for Satluj, in addition to Ca-Mg-HCO3, sodium-potassium-chloride-sulphate and mixed water types were also prevalent. The river waters witnessed salinity hazard but did not pose sodicity hazard except at a few locations of Satluj. The study indicates the need to take location specific measures for improving river water quality for drinking as well as irrigation purposes. The current status of water quality calls for an urgent need to formulate stringent policy regulations to maintain the surface water quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumita Chandel
- Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India.
| | - Harsimran Kaur
- Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar Benbi
- Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Dhanwinder Singh
- Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Manpreet Kaur
- Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Kuldip Singh
- Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India
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Overbeek LV. Human Pathogens in Primary Production Systems. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11030750. [PMID: 36985323 PMCID: PMC10053829 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11030750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pathogenic micro-organisms can contaminate plants [...]
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo van Overbeek
- Wageningen Plant Research, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
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6
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Alegbeleye O, Sant'Ana AS. Microbiological quality of irrigation water for cultivation of fruits and vegetables: An overview of available guidelines, water testing strategies and some factors that influence compliance. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 220:114771. [PMID: 36586712 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Contaminated irrigation water is among many potential vehicles of human pathogens to food plants, constituting significant public health risks especially for the fresh produce category. This review discusses some available guidelines or regulations for microbiological safety of irrigation water, and provides a summary of some common methods used for characterizing microbial contamination. The goal of such exploration is to understand some of the considerations that influence formulation of water testing guidelines, describe priority microbial parameters particularly with respect to food safety risks, and attempt to determine what methods are most suitable for their screening. Furthermore, the review discusses factors that influence the potential for microbiologically polluted irrigation water to pose substantial risks of pathogenic contamination to produce items. Some of these factors include type of water source exploited, irrigation methods, other agro ecosystem features/practices, as well as pathogen traits such as die-off rates. Additionally, the review examines factors such as food safety knowledge, other farmer attitudes or inclinations, level of social exposure and financial circumstances that influence adherence to water testing guidelines and other safe water application practices. A thorough understanding of relevant risk metrics for the application and management of irrigation water is necessary for the development of water testing criteria. To determine sampling and analytical approach for water testing, factors such as agricultural practices (which differ among farms and regionally), as well as environmental factors that modulate how water quality may affect the microbiological safety of produce should be considered. Research and technological advancements that can improve testing approach and the determination of target levels for hazard characterization or description for the many different pollution contexts as well as farmer adherence to testing requirements, are desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwadara Alegbeleye
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Anderson S Sant'Ana
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
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7
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Ahmad N, Joji RM, Shahid M. Evolution and implementation of One Health to control the dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes: A review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 12:1065796. [PMID: 36726644 PMCID: PMC9884834 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1065796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is a serious threat to humanity and its environment. Aberrant usage of antibiotics in the human, animal, and environmental sectors, as well as the dissemination of resistant bacteria and resistance genes among these sectors and globally, are all contributing factors. In humans, antibiotics are generally used to treat infections and prevent illnesses. Antibiotic usage in food-producing animals has lately emerged as a major public health concern. These medicines are currently being utilized to prevent and treat infectious diseases and also for its growth-promoting qualities. These methods have resulted in the induction and spread of antibiotic resistant infections from animals to humans. Antibiotics can be introduced into the environment from a variety of sources, including human wastes, veterinary wastes, and livestock husbandry waste. The soil has been recognized as a reservoir of ABR genes, not only because of the presence of a wide and varied range of bacteria capable of producing natural antibiotics but also for the usage of natural manure on crop fields, which may contain ABR genes or antibiotics. Fears about the human health hazards of ABR related to environmental antibiotic residues include the possible threat of modifying the human microbiota and promoting the rise and selection of resistant bacteria, and the possible danger of generating a selection pressure on the environmental microflora resulting in environmental antibiotic resistance. Because of the connectivity of these sectors, antibiotic use, antibiotic residue persistence, and the existence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in human-animal-environment habitats are all linked to the One Health triangle. The pillars of support including rigorous ABR surveillance among different sectors individually and in combination, and at national and international level, overcoming laboratory resource challenges, and core plan and action execution should be strictly implemented to combat and contain ABR under one health approach. Implementing One Health could help to avoid the emergence and dissemination of antibiotic resistance while also promoting a healthier One World. This review aims to emphasize antibiotic resistance and its regulatory approaches from the perspective of One Health by highlighting the interconnectedness and multi-sectoral nature of the human, animal, and environmental health or ill-health facets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mohammad Shahid
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
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8
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Morgado ME, Hudson CL, Chattopadhyay S, Ta K, East C, Purser N, Allard S, Ferrier MD, Sapkota AR, Sharma M, Goldstein RR. The effect of a first flush rainwater harvesting and subsurface irrigation system on E. coli and pathogen concentrations in irrigation water, soil, and produce. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 843:156976. [PMID: 35768032 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is stressing irrigation water sources, necessitating the evaluation of alternative waters such as harvested rainwater to determine if they meet water quality and food safety standards. We collected water, soil, and produce samples between June and August 2019 from two vegetable rain garden (VRG) sites in Frederick, Maryland that harvest rainwater using a first flush system, and deliver this water to produce through subsurface irrigation. The raised VRG beds include layers of gravel, sand, and soil that act as filters. We recorded the average surface soil moisture in each bed as well as antecedent precipitation. All water (n = 29), soil (n = 55), and produce (n = 57) samples were tested for generic E. coli using standard membrane filtration, and water samples were also tested for Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes by selective enrichment. No Salmonella spp. or L. monocytogenes isolates were detected in any water samples throughout the study period. Average E. coli levels from all harvested rainwater samples at both sites (1.2 and 24.4 CFU/100 mL) were well below the Good Agricultural Practices food safety guidelines. Only 7 % (3/44) of produce samples from beds irrigated with harvested rainwater were positive for E. coli. E. coli levels in soil samples were positively associated with average surface soil moisture (r2 = 0.13, p = 0.007). Additionally, E. coli presence in water samples was marginally associated with a shorter length of antecedent dry period (fewer days since preceding rainfall) (p = 0.058). Our results suggest that harvested rainwater collected through a first flush system and applied to produce through subsurface irrigation meets current food safety standards. Soil moisture monitoring could further reduce E. coli contamination risks from harvested rainwater-irrigated produce. First flush and subsurface irrigation systems could help mitigate climate change-related water challenges while protecting food safety and security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele E Morgado
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA.
| | - Claire L Hudson
- Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA; Department of Biology, Hood College, Frederick, MD, USA.
| | - Suhana Chattopadhyay
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA.
| | - Kaitlin Ta
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA.
| | - Cheryl East
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Beltsville, MD, USA.
| | - Nathan Purser
- Department of Biology, Hood College, Frederick, MD, USA.
| | - Sarah Allard
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA.
| | - M Drew Ferrier
- Department of Biology, Hood College, Frederick, MD, USA.
| | - Amy R Sapkota
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA.
| | - Manan Sharma
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Beltsville, MD, USA.
| | - Rachel Rosenberg Goldstein
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, USA.
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Li X, Zhang R, Wang C, Wang X, Yang Y, Cui S, Guo Y. Use of β-cyclodextrin and milk protein-coated activated charcoal for rapid detection of Listeria monocytogenes in leafy greens by PCR without pre-enrichment. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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10
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Beharielal T, Thamaga-Chitja J, Schmidt S. Socioeconomic Characteristics Associated with Farming Practices, Food Safety and Security in the Production of Fresh Produce—A Case Study including Small-Scale Farmers in KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa). SUSTAINABILITY 2022; 14:10590. [DOI: 10.3390/su141710590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Farmer practices may influence the microbial quality and safety of fresh produce. The increasing demands to create ready-to-eat (RTE) fresh produce while providing potential niche markets for smallholder farmers might be contributing to increased numbers of fresh produce-associated foodborne disease outbreaks. This study determined the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and farmer hygiene practices of farmers using open-ended questionnaires and key informant interviews. Additionally, the relationships between farmer socioeconomic characteristics and hygiene practices were statistically analyzed. The semi-organic smallholder farmer population and the farmworkers of the organic farm were female-dominated. Tertiary education was a predominant characteristic in the organic and semi-conventional workforces. While the semi-organic and semi-conventional farms relied on a combination of ‘store-bought’ synthetic and composted organic fertilizers, the organic farm owner only used composted organic fertilizer. The irrigation water sources varied amongst the farm types. However, most of the semi-organic farmers did not pre-treat irrigation water prior to use. The irrigation water source and fertilizer type selected by farmers varied and might affect the microbial quality and safety of fresh produce. Socioeconomic factors such as gender and education may influence farmer hygiene practices. These characteristics should therefore be considered when planning farmer support interventions.
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11
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Qian S, Hou R, Yuan R, Zhou B, Chen Z, Chen H. Removal of Escherichia coli from domestic sewage using biological sand filters: Reduction effect and microbial community analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 209:112908. [PMID: 35150718 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.112908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The recycling of sewage is an economical option to solve the water resource pressure. However, to avoid health risks to humans, pathogens in sewage must be removed before reuse. In this study, a biological sand filter (BSF) was used to remove pathogen indicator Escherichia coli (E. coli) from sewage. The biolayer (schmutzdecke layer) formation process of BSFs, operation performance, factors affecting E. coli removal and microbial community structure were evaluated. The results of schmutzdecke layer culture showed that a large number of microorganisms were attached to the upper medium of BSFs. At the same time, the BSFs could reduce both conventional contaminants and E. coli. The E. coli removal experiments revealed that the removal rate of E. coli was about 96.1% at higher effective medium depth (50 cm), the removal rate was about 95% when set hydraulic loading rate (HLR) to 0.16 m3/m2/h and the removal efficiency reached 93.6% at lower influent bacteria concentration. Finally, the microbial community analysis indicated that different BSFs had similar microbial structure, and the microbial abundance in the schmutzdecke layer was higher than that in the bottom layer in the same BSFs. Besides, Biological action played a significant role in the removal of E. coli, including the bacteriolysis of Bdellovibrio and the competition between other bacteria and E. coli. In summary, BSF was a promising technology for removing E. coli from sewage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengtao Qian
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Rongrong Hou
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Rongfang Yuan
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Beihai Zhou
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zhongbing Chen
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 16500, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Huilun Chen
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Beijing Key Laboratory of Resource-Oriented Treatment of Industrial Pollutants, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China.
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Microbiological and Physicochemical Characterization of Irrigation Water in Market Gardening in Korhogo. ScientificWorldJournal 2022; 2022:3167581. [PMID: 35663225 PMCID: PMC9159820 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3167581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several sources of water are used by farmers without concern for quality, which can have consequences on the health of the consumer of market garden products. The aim of this study is to evaluate the microbiological and physicochemical qualities of irrigation water. Microorganisms were counted using the membrane filtration and incorporation into the agar methods. The physicochemical parameters were measured using multiparameter and spectrophotometric methods. The average values of the physicochemical parameters are between 6.46 and 6.9 (pH), 27.15 and 29.9°C (temperature), 170 and 760 μS/cm (electrical conductivity), 70 and 380 mg/L (total dissolved solids), 3.85 and 77.59 mg/L (nitrates), and between 0.13 and 2.35 mg/L for ammonium. Irrigation water in market gardening is highly contaminated by microorganisms. Loads ranging from 3.64 to 4.35 log10 cfu/100 mL, 2.44 to 3.31 log10 cfu/100 mL, 2.44 to 2.9 log10 cfu/100 mL, and 2.07 to 3.63 log10 cfu/100 mL were obtained for total coliforms, E. coli, fecal enterococci, and sulphite-reducing clostridia, respectively. Mean loadings ranging from 4.95 to 5.98 log10 cfu/100 mL, 1.8 to 2.08 log10 cfu/100 mL, and 1.5 to 1.98 log10 cfu/100 mL were obtained for mesophilic aerobic germs, moulds, and yeasts, respectively. Four different mould strains were identified in irrigation water. These strains belong to the genus Aspergillus. Shallows water was more contaminated with microorganisms. These results show that water should be treated before being used for irrigation; market garden products must be properly washed and disinfected before consumption.
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W Bartz F, Teixeira LB, Schroder R, Das Mercês Santos AF, Trindade P, Tondo EC. First Fatal Cases due to Escherichia coli O157 and Campylobacter jejuni subsp. jejuni Outbreak Occurred in Southern Brazil. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2022; 19:241-247. [PMID: 35138934 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2021.0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, four children of the same school were hospitalized due to severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, and the mother of one child was diagnosed with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Escherichia coli O157 NM was isolated from the stool of one child, whereas Campylobacter jejuni isolates were found in feces, raw foods, environmental samples, and tap water. In addition, the same pulsed-field gel electrophoresis profile was identified in C. jejuni isolated from feces and tap water. One child died of renal failure and another due to respiratory failure. Based on symptoms and bacterial isolation, the deaths were assigned to E. coli O157 NM, but coinfection with C. jejuni may have contributed to the severity of symptoms. These were the first deaths assigned to E. coli O157 NM registered in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe W Bartz
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia, Centro Estadual de Vigilância em Saúde (CEVS), Porto Alegre, Brasil
| | - Lilian B Teixeira
- Departamento de Doenças de Transmissao Hídrica e Alimentar, Centro Estadual de Vigilância em Saúde (CEVS), Porto Alegre, Brasil
| | - Rafael Schroder
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia, Centro Estadual de Vigilância em Saúde (CEVS), Porto Alegre, Brasil
| | | | - Priscila Trindade
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, Brasil
| | - Eduardo Cesar Tondo
- Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brasil
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14
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Silva MBRD, Maffei DF, Moreira DA, Dias M, Mendes MA, Franco BDGDM. Agricultural practices in Brazilian organic farms and microbiological characteristics of samples collected along the production chain. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 132:1185-1196. [PMID: 34365710 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To gather data on agricultural practices in organic farms in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and evaluate their relationship with the microbiological characteristics of samples collected along the production chain. METHODS AND RESULTS Practices data were based on field observations and interviews with farmers in 10 selected organic lettuce producing farms. Counts of Enterobacteriaceae and surveys for Salmonella were performed in samples of lettuce (before and after washing), fertilizers, irrigation and washing water, all collected in the same farm. Water samples were also tested for total coliforms and generic Escherichia coli. Isolated Enterobacteriaceae were identified by MALDI-TOF MS. Contamination of lettuce was influenced by some agricultural practices: chicken manure-based fertilization resulted in higher Enterobacteriaceae counts in lettuce when compared to other types of manure, whereas pre-washed lettuces presented lower microbial counts than non-pre-washed samples. Salmonella was detected in one lettuce sample by qPCR. Escherichia coli was detected in all irrigation water samples. All sample types contained Enterobacteriaceae species commonly reported as opportunistic human pathogens. CONCLUSIONS The data highlight the need for improvement in the good agricultural practices in the studied farms. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study provides information on agricultural practices and microbiological characteristics of organic lettuce, contributing to the development of more accurate risk assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Belchior Rosendo da Silva
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniele Fernanda Maffei
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Agri-food Industry, Food and Nutrition, ‟Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Debora Andrade Moreira
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Meriellen Dias
- Dempster MS Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnic School of University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Anita Mendes
- Dempster MS Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnic School of University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Bernadette Dora Gombossy de Melo Franco
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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15
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Richter L, du Plessis EM, Duvenage S, Korsten L. Microbiological safety of spinach throughout commercial supply chains in Gauteng Province, South Africa and characterization of isolated multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 132:2389-2409. [PMID: 34767685 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the microbiological quality, potential foodborne pathogen presence, and to phenotypically (antimicrobial resistance [AMR] profiles) and genotypically (DNA fingerprints and diarrhoeagenic genes) characterize Escherichia coli isolated throughout spinach production systems from farm-to-sale. METHODS AND RESULTS Samples (n = 288) were collected from two commercial supply chains using either river or borehole irrigation water. E. coli was enumerated throughout the chain where river water was directly used for overhead irrigation at levels between 0.00 and 3.22 log colony forming unit (CFU) g-1 . Following enrichment, isolation and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry identification, E. coli was isolated from 22.57% (n = 65/288) of all samples. Salmonella spp. were isolated from 3% (n = 9/288) of river and irrigation water samples on one farm, and no Listeria monocytogenes was detected throughout the study. Of the 80 characterized E. coli isolates, one harboured the stx2 virulence gene, while 43.75% (n = 35) were multidrug resistant. Overall, 26.30% of the multidrug-resistant E. coli isolates were from production scenario one that used river irrigation water, and 17.50% from the second production scenario that used borehole irrigation water. A greater percentage of resistance phenotypes were from water E. coli isolates (52.50%), than isolates from spinach (37.50%). E. coli isolates from spinach and irrigation water clustered together at high similarity values (>90%) using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-polymerase chan reaction analysis. CONCLUSIONS This study reported the presence of multidrug-resistant environmental E. coli throughout spinach production from farm, during processing and up to retail. Furthermore, the similarity of multi-drug resistant E. coli isolates suggests transfer from irrigation water to spinach in both scenarios, reiterating that irrigation water for vegetables consumed raw, should comply with standardized microbiological safety guidelines. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY Multidrug-resistant E. coli presence throughout spinach production emphasizes the necessity of increased surveillance of AMR in fresh produce and the production environment within a One Health paradigm to develop AMR mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loandi Richter
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Erika M du Plessis
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Stacey Duvenage
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Lise Korsten
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Science and Innovation, National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, Pretoria, South Africa
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16
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Bell RL, Kase JA, Harrison LM, Balan KV, Babu U, Chen Y, Macarisin D, Kwon HJ, Zheng J, Stevens EL, Meng J, Brown EW. The Persistence of Bacterial Pathogens in Surface Water and Its Impact on Global Food Safety. Pathogens 2021; 10:1391. [PMID: 34832547 PMCID: PMC8617848 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Water is vital to agriculture. It is essential that the water used for the production of fresh produce commodities be safe. Microbial pathogens are able to survive for extended periods of time in water. It is critical to understand their biology and ecology in this ecosystem in order to develop better mitigation strategies for farmers who grow these food crops. In this review the prevalence, persistence and ecology of four major foodborne pathogens, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Salmonella, Campylobacter and closely related Arcobacter, and Listeria monocytogenes, in water are discussed. These pathogens have been linked to fresh produce outbreaks, some with devastating consequences, where, in a few cases, the contamination event has been traced to water used for crop production or post-harvest activities. In addition, antimicrobial resistance, methods improvements, including the role of genomics in aiding in the understanding of these pathogens, are discussed. Finally, global initiatives to improve our knowledge base of these pathogens around the world are touched upon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Bell
- Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA; (J.A.K.); (Y.C.); (D.M.); (H.J.K.); (J.Z.); (E.W.B.)
| | - Julie A. Kase
- Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA; (J.A.K.); (Y.C.); (D.M.); (H.J.K.); (J.Z.); (E.W.B.)
| | - Lisa M. Harrison
- Office of Applied Research and Safety Assessment, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, MD 20708, USA; (L.M.H.); (K.V.B.); (U.B.)
| | - Kannan V. Balan
- Office of Applied Research and Safety Assessment, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, MD 20708, USA; (L.M.H.); (K.V.B.); (U.B.)
| | - Uma Babu
- Office of Applied Research and Safety Assessment, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, MD 20708, USA; (L.M.H.); (K.V.B.); (U.B.)
| | - Yi Chen
- Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA; (J.A.K.); (Y.C.); (D.M.); (H.J.K.); (J.Z.); (E.W.B.)
| | - Dumitru Macarisin
- Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA; (J.A.K.); (Y.C.); (D.M.); (H.J.K.); (J.Z.); (E.W.B.)
| | - Hee Jin Kwon
- Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA; (J.A.K.); (Y.C.); (D.M.); (H.J.K.); (J.Z.); (E.W.B.)
| | - Jie Zheng
- Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA; (J.A.K.); (Y.C.); (D.M.); (H.J.K.); (J.Z.); (E.W.B.)
| | - Eric L. Stevens
- Office of the Center Director, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA;
| | - Jianghong Meng
- Joint Institute for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Center for Food Safety and Security Systems, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA;
| | - Eric W. Brown
- Office of Regulatory Science, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD 20740, USA; (J.A.K.); (Y.C.); (D.M.); (H.J.K.); (J.Z.); (E.W.B.)
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17
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Dagher LA, Hassan J, Kharroubi S, Jaafar H, Kassem II. Nationwide Assessment of Water Quality in Rivers across Lebanon by Quantifying Fecal Indicators Densities and Profiling Antibiotic Resistance of Escherichia coli. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10070883. [PMID: 34356804 PMCID: PMC8300662 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10070883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of contaminated water has been associated with severe disease outbreaks. Due to widespread pollution with untreated sewage, concerns have been raised over water quality in Lebanon, a country with well-documented challenges in infrastructure. Here, we evaluated the water quality of major rivers in Lebanon by quantifying the densities of fecal indicator bacteria (fecal coliforms and Escherichia coli). Additionally, we assessed the dissemination of antibiotic-resistant E. coli in river water. Composite water samples (n = 132) were collected from fourteen rivers, and 378 E. coli were isolated and analyzed. Fecal coliforms and E. coli were detected in 96.29% and 95.5% of the samples, respectively. Additionally, 73.48–61.3% and 31.81% of the samples exceeded the microbiological acceptability standards for irrigation and the fecal coliform limit for recreational activities, respectively. The E. coli exhibited resistance to ampicillin (40% of isolates), amoxicillin + clavulanic acid (42%), cefepime (4%), cefotaxime (14%), cefalexin (46%), cefixime (17%), doripenem (0.3%), imipenem (0.5%), gentamicin (6%), kanamycin (9%), streptomycin (35%), tetracycline (35%), ciprofloxacin (10%), norfloxacin (7%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (32%), and chloramphenicol (13%). Notably, 45.8% of the isolates were classified as multidrug resistant (MDR). Our results highlight the need to urgently address fecal pollution and the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in Lebanese rivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea A. Dagher
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (L.A.D.); (S.K.)
| | - Jouman Hassan
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, 1109 Experiment Street, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
| | - Samer Kharroubi
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (L.A.D.); (S.K.)
| | - Hadi Jaafar
- Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Issmat I. Kassem
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (L.A.D.); (S.K.)
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, 1109 Experiment Street, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
- Correspondence:
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18
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Glaize A, Young M, Harden L, Gutierrez-Rodriguez E, Thakur S. The effect of vegetation barriers at reducing the transmission of Salmonella and Escherichia coli from animal operations to fresh produce. Int J Food Microbiol 2021; 347:109196. [PMID: 33906045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2021.109196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Due to the recent outbreaks of Salmonella and Escherichia coli in fresh produce in the United States, the transfer of foodborne pathogens between animal feeding operations and fresh produce continues to be a considerable risk. The purpose of this study was to determine if the establishment of a vegetation barrier (VB) on small-scale sustainable farms could prevent the transmission of Salmonella and E. coli to nearby fresh produce fields. A 5-layer VB (31 × 49 m) was constructed between a dairy farm, a poultry farm, and a nearby produce field. Fresh produce (i.e., romaine lettuce and tomato), animal feces, and environmental (i.e., air, soil, and barrier) samples were collected for 15 months from 2018 to 2019. Four replicates of soil and fresh produce samples were taken from three plots located 10 m, 61 m, and 122 m away from the respective animal locations and processed for Salmonella and E. coli. Air and vegetative strip samples were sampled at 15-day intervals. Multiple colonies were processed from each positive sample, and a total of 143 positive Salmonella (n = 15) and E. coli (n = 128) isolates were retrieved from the soil, produce, air, and fecal samples. Interestingly, 18.2% of the Salmonella and E. coli isolates (n = 26) were recovered from fresh produce (n = 9) samples. Surprisingly, Salmonella isolates (n = 9) were only found in fecal (n = 3) samples collected from the dairy pasture. Data analysis suggests that the VB is an effective tool at reducing the transmission of E. coli and Salmonella from animal farms to fresh produce fields. However, based on phenotypic and genotypic testing, it is clear that fecal samples from animal farms are not the only source of pathogen contamination. This indicates that the environment (e.g., soil and wind), as well as the initial setup of the farm (e.g., proximity to service roads and produce plot placement), can contribute to the contamination of fresh produce. Our study recommends the need for more effective bioremediation and prevention control measures to use in conjunction with VBs to reduce pathogen transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayanna Glaize
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Morgan Young
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Lyndy Harden
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Eduardo Gutierrez-Rodriguez
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture College of Agricultural Sciences, Colorado State University, USA
| | - Siddhartha Thakur
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA.
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19
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Abioye OE, Osunla AC, Okoh AI. Molecular Detection and Distribution of Six Medically Important Vibrio spp. in Selected Freshwater and Brackish Water Resources in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:617703. [PMID: 34149632 PMCID: PMC8208477 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.617703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Water resources contaminated with pathogenic Vibrio species are usually a source of devastating infection outbreaks that have been a public health concern in both developed and developing countries over the decades. The present study assessed the prevalence of six medically significant Vibrio species in some water resources in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa for 12 months. We detected vibrios in all the 194 water samples analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The prevalence of Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio mimicus, Vibrio fluvialis, Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio alginolyticus, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus in freshwater samples was 34, 19, 9, 2, 3, and 2%, and that in brackish water samples was 44, 28, 10, 7, 46, and 51%, respectively. The population of the presumptive Vibrio spp. isolated from freshwater (628) and brackish water (342) samples that were confirmed by PCR was 79% (497/628) and 85% (291/342), respectively. Twenty-two percent of the PCR-confirmed Vibrio isolates from freshwater (n = 497) samples and 41% of the PCR-confirmed Vibrio isolates from brackish water samples (n = 291) fall among the Vibrio species of interest. The incidences of V. cholerae, V. mimicus, V. fluvialis, V. vulnificus, V. alginolyticus, and V. parahaemolyticus amidst these Vibrio spp. of interest that were recovered from freshwater samples were 75, 14, 4, 6, 1, and 1%, whereas those from brackish water samples were 24, 7, 3, 3, 47, and 18%, respectively. Our observation during the study suggests pollution as the reason for the unusual isolation of medically important vibrios in winter. Correlation analysis revealed that temperature drives the frequency of isolation, whereas salinity drives the composition of the targeted Vibrio species at our sampling sites. The finding of the study is of public health importance going by the usefulness of the water resources investigated. Although controlling and preventing most of the factors that contribute to the prevalence of medically important bacteria, such as Vibrio species, at the sampling points might be difficult, regular monitoring for creating health risk awareness will go a long way to prevent possible Vibrio-related infection outbreaks at the sampling sites and their immediate environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatayo E Abioye
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa.,Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa.,Department of Microbiology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife, Nigeria
| | - Ayodeji Charles Osunla
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa.,Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa.,Department of Microbiology, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria
| | - Anthony I Okoh
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa.,Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa.,Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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20
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Loots M, Chidamba L, Korsten L. Microbial Load and Prevalence of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. in Macadamia Nut Production Systems. J Food Prot 2021; 84:1088-1096. [PMID: 33508076 DOI: 10.4315/jfp-20-238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study evaluated the potential impact of environmental factors and harvesting practices on the microbial load of macadamia nuts. Three farms located in primary macadamia nut production regions, the Mbombela (A), Barberton (B) and White River (C) areas in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, were sampled over a 2-year period. A total of 264 irrigation water (54), soil (30), and macadamia nut (180) samples were collected and evaluated for microbial load. All water samples had mean Escherichia coli loads below 1,000 MPN/100 mL, which is the standard regulatory requirement for agricultural water considered fit for irrigation in South Africa. Mean total aerobic plate counts of nut-in-husk on-tree samples (3.91 log CFU/g; n = 60) were higher after harvesting (5.98 log CFU/g; n = 60) but were lower after dehusking (to 4.89 log CFU/g; n = 60) on nut-in-shell samples. Salmonella spp. were only detected in water samples from farm B (67%; n = 18) and farm C (15%; n = 18). Neither Listeria monocytogenes nor Salmonella spp. were detected in the soil samples. E. coli was only detected in 20% (n = 10) of soil samples collected from two farms (farms A and B). None of the E. coli isolated in this study was positive for the eae, stx1, and stx2 enterohemorrhagic E. coli virulence genes. This study provides basic data that can be used in the development of macadamia nut-specific hazard assessment tools within primary production environments. HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Loots
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Lynnwood Road, Pretoria 0001, South Africa, and Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Lizyben Chidamba
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Lynnwood Road, Pretoria 0001, South Africa, and Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Lise Korsten
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Lynnwood Road, Pretoria 0001, South Africa, and Private Bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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21
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Malayil L, Ramachandran P, Chattopadhyay S, Cagle R, Hittle L, Ottesen A, Mongodin EF, Sapkota AR. Metabolically-active bacteria in reclaimed water and ponds revealed using bromodeoxyuridine DNA labeling coupled with 16S rRNA and shotgun sequencing. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 184:116185. [PMID: 32726735 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the complex microbiota of agricultural irrigation water is vital to multiple sectors of sustainable agriculture and public health. To date, microbiome characterization methods have provided comprehensive profiles of aquatic microbiotas, but have not described which taxa are likely metabolically-active. Here, we combined 5‑bromo‑2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling with 16S rRNA and shotgun sequencing to identify metabolically-active bacteria in reclaimed and agricultural pond water samples (n = 28) recovered from the Mid-Atlantic United States between March 2017 and January 2018. BrdU-treated samples were significantly less diverse (alpha diversity) compared to non-BrdU-treated samples. The most abundant taxa in the metabolically-active fraction of water samples (BrdU-treated samples) were unclassified Actinobacteria, Flavobacterium spp., Pseudomonas spp. and Aeromonas spp. Interestingly, we also observed that antimicrobial resistance and virulence gene profiles seemed to be more diverse and more abundant in non-BrdU-treated water samples compared to BrdU-treated samples. These findings raise the possibility that these genes may be associated more with relic (inactive) DNA present in the tested water types rather than viable, metabolically-active microorganisms. Our study demonstrates that the coupled use of BrdU labeling and sequencing can enhance understanding of the metabolically-active fraction of bacterial communities in alternative irrigation water sources. Agricultural pond and reclaimed waters are vital to the future of sustainable agriculture, and thus, the full understanding of the pathogenic potential of these waters is important to guide mitigation strategies that ensure appropriate water quality for intended purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Malayil
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Padmini Ramachandran
- Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Science, Division of Microbiology, HFS-712, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD20740, United States
| | - Suhana Chattopadhyay
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Robin Cagle
- Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Science, Division of Microbiology, HFS-712, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD20740, United States
| | - Lauren Hittle
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201United States
| | - Andrea Ottesen
- Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Science, Division of Microbiology, HFS-712, 5001 Campus Drive, College Park, MD20740, United States
| | - Emmanuel F Mongodin
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201United States
| | - Amy R Sapkota
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, MD, United States.
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22
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Sant'Anna PB, de Melo Franco BD, Maffei DF. Microbiological safety of ready-to-eat minimally processed vegetables in Brazil: an overview. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2020; 100:4664-4670. [PMID: 32329100 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.10438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The market of ready-to-eat minimally processed vegetables (RTE-MPV) is increasing in Brazil and many other countries. During processing, these vegetables go through several steps that modify their natural structure while maintaining the same nutritional and sensory attributes as the fresh produce. One of the most important steps is washing-disinfection, which aims to reduce the microbial load, prevent cross-contamination and inactivate pathogenic microorganisms that may be present. Nonetheless, the presence of pathogens and occurrence of foodborne illnesses associated with consumption of RTE-MPV concern consumers, governments and the food industry. This review brings an overview on the microbiological safety of RTE-MPV, focusing on Brazilian findings. Most of the published data are on detection of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes, indicating that their prevalence may range from 0.4% to 12.5% and from 0.6% to 3.1%, respectively. The presence of these pathogens in fresh produce is unacceptable and risky, mainly in RTE-MPV, because consumers expect them to be clean and sanitized and consequently safe for consumption without any additional care. Therefore, proper control during the production of RTE-MPV is mandatory to guarantee products with quality and safety to consumers. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro B Sant'Anna
- Department of Biological Sciences, 'Luiz de Queiroz' College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Bernadette Dg de Melo Franco
- Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Food Research Center (FoRC-CEPID), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniele F Maffei
- Food Research Center (FoRC-CEPID), Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Agri-food Industry, Food and Nutrition, 'Luiz de Queiroz' College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
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23
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A review of recent trends in the development of the microbial safety of fruits and vegetables. Trends Food Sci Technol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2020.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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24
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Harmon JB, Gray HK, Young CC, Schwab KJ. Microfluidic droplet application for bacterial surveillance in fresh-cut produce wash waters. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233239. [PMID: 32516315 PMCID: PMC7282644 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Foodborne contamination and associated illness in the United States is responsible for an estimated 48 million cases per year. Increased food demand, global commerce of perishable foods, and the growing threat of antibiotic resistance are driving factors elevating concern for food safety. Foodborne illness is often associated with fresh-cut, ready-to-eat produce commodities due to the perishable nature of the product and relatively minimal processing from farm to the consumer. The research presented here optimizes and evaluates the utility of microfluidic droplets, also termed ultra-miniaturized bioreactors, for rapid detection of viable Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium in a shredded lettuce wash water acquired from a major Mid-Atlantic produce processing facility (denoted as Producer) in the U.S. Using a fluorescently-labeled anti-S. Typhimurium antibody and relative fluorescence intensities, paired with in-droplet incubation, S. Typhimurium was detected and identified with 100% specificity in less than 5 h. In initial optimization experiments using S. Typhimurium-spiked sterile water, the relative fluorescence intensity of S. Typhimurium was approximately two times that of the observed relative intensities of five non-S. Typhimurium negative controls at 4-h incubation in droplets containing Rappaport-Vasiliadis (RV) broth at 37°C: relative fluorescence intensity for S. Typhimurium = 2.36 (95% CI: 2.15-2.58), Enterobacter aerogens 1.12 (95% CI: 1.09-1.16), Escherichia coli 700609 = 1.13 (95% CI: 1.09-1.17), E. coli 13706 1.13 (95% CI: 1.07-1.19), E. coli 700891 1.05 (95% CI: 1.03-1.07) and Citrobacter freundii 1.04 (95% CI: 1.03-1.05). S. Typhimurium- and E. aerogens-spiked shredded lettuce wash waters acquired from the Producer were then incubated 4 h in-droplet at 37°C with RV broth. The observed relative fluorescence of S. Typhimurium was significantly higher than that of E. aerogens, 1.56 (95% CI: 1.42-1.71) and 1.10 (95% CI: 1.08-1.12), respectively. While further optimization focusing on compatible concentration methodologies for highly-dilute produce water samples is needed, this application of droplet microfluidics shows great promise in dramatically shortening the time necessary-from days to hours-to confirm viable bacterial contamination in ready-to-eat produce wash waters used throughout the domestic and international food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Brian Harmon
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Asymmetric Operations Sector, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Hannah K. Gray
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Charles C. Young
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Asymmetric Operations Sector, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kellogg J. Schwab
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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25
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Glaize A, Gutierrez-Rodriguez E, Hanning I, Díaz-Sánchez S, Gunter C, van Vliet AHM, Watson W, Thakur S. Transmission of antimicrobial resistant non-O157 Escherichia coli at the interface of animal-fresh produce in sustainable farming environments. Int J Food Microbiol 2019; 319:108472. [PMID: 31901751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2019.108472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of typical host adapted enteric bacterial pathogens with fresh produce grown in fields is complex. These interactions can be more pronounced in co-managed or sustainable farms where animal operations are, by design, close to fresh produce, and growers frequently move between the two production environments. The primary objectives of this study were to 1) determine the transmission of STEC or enteric pathogens from small and large animal herds or operations to fresh produce on sustainable farms in TN and NC, 2) identify the possible sources that impact transmission of AMR E. coli, specifically STEC on these systems, and 3) WGS to characterize recovered E. coli from these sources. Samples were collected from raw and composted manure, environment, and produce sources. The serotype, virulence, and genotypic resistance profile were determined using the assembled genome sequences sequenced by Illumina technology. Broth microdilution was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of each isolate against a panel of fourteen antimicrobials. The prevalence of E. coli increased during the summer season for all sources tested. ParSNP trees generated demonstrated that the transmission of AMR E. coli is occurring between animal feeding operations and fresh produce. Ten isolates were identified as serotype O45, a serotype that is associated with the "Big Six" group that is frequently linked with foodborne outbreaks caused by non-O157 E. coli. However, these isolates did not possess the stx gene. The highest frequency of resistance was detected against streptomycin (n = 225), ampicillin (n = 190) and sulfisoxazole FIS (n = 140). A total of 35 (13.7%) isolates from two TN farms were positive for the blaCMY (n = 5) and blaTEM (n = 32) genes. The results of this study show the potential of AMR E. coli transmission between animal feeding operations and fresh produce, and more studies are recommended to study this interaction and prevent dissemination in sustainable farming systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayanna Glaize
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Eduardo Gutierrez-Rodriguez
- Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Irene Hanning
- College of Genome Sciences and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Sandra Díaz-Sánchez
- College of Genome Sciences and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Chris Gunter
- Extension Vegetable Production Specialist, Horticultural Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Arnoud H M van Vliet
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Wes Watson
- Entomology and Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Siddhartha Thakur
- Department of Population Health & Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA.
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26
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G M Gonzalez A, M F Cerqueira A. Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in the animal reservoir and food in Brazil. J Appl Microbiol 2019; 128:1568-1582. [PMID: 31650661 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a zoonotic pathotype associated with human gastrointestinal disease that may progress to severe complications. Ruminants, especially cattle, are the main reservoirs of STEC contaminating the environment and foods of animal or vegetable origin. Besides Shiga toxin, other virulence factors are involved in STEC virulence. O157:H7 remains the most frequent serotype associated with disease. In Brazil, the prevalence of STEC reaches values as high as 90% in cattle and 20% in meat products which may impact the Brazilian food export trade. However, only few reports are related to human disease. The stx1 gene prevails in cattle, whereas the stx2 gene is more frequent in food. Several STEC serotypes have been isolated from cattle and food in Brazil, including the O157:H7, O111:NT, NT:H19 as well as O26 and O103 serogroups. O113: H21 STEC strains are frequent in ruminants and foods but with no report in human disease. The virulence profile of Brazilian STEC strains from cattle and food suggests a pathogenic potential to humans, although some differences with clinical strains have been detected. Further studies, employing recent and more discriminative techniques are in need to better clarify their virulence potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice G M Gonzalez
- Departamento de Bromatologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Aloysio M F Cerqueira
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
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27
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Maffei DF, Moreira DA, Silva MBR, Faria DB, Saldaña E, Ishimura I, Landgraf M, Franco BDGM. Assessing the relationship between organic farming practices and microbiological characteristics of organic lettuce varieties (Lactuca sativa L.) grown in Sao Paulo, Brazil. J Appl Microbiol 2019; 127:237-247. [PMID: 30989772 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to gather information on farming practices employed in organic lettuce fields in Sao Paulo, Brazil and associate these practices with the microbiological characteristics of the products. METHODS AND RESULTS Practices were surveyed using a questionnaire applied in ten farms, where 200 heads of lettuce were collected and submitted to enumeration of total coliforms and generic Escherichia coli and tested for Salmonella spp. using culture and molecular (qPCR) methods. Based on the responses, the farms could be clustered in two groups: group 1, comprised by six farms, where chicken manure was used as fertilizer in most of them and the composting process was not performed on site; and group 2, comprised by four farms, where other types of fertilizer were used, and the composting process was performed on site. Generic E. coli was detected in 56 (28%) samples, with an average of 1·1 ± 0·7 log MPN per g. Salmonella DNA was detected in two (1%) samples by qPCR. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence and bacterial loads of generic E. coli, and the occurrence of Salmonella, even at low populations undetectable by conventional culture methods, highlight the need for control measures during farming practices to reduce microbial contamination and risks of foodborne illnesses. These measures include the use of properly composted manure and appropriate washing procedures for leafy vegetables before consumption. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The obtained data contribute to a better understanding of the farming practices of organically grown lettuces in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- D F Maffei
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Agri-food Industry, Food and Nutrition, "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - D A Moreira
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - M B R Silva
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - D B Faria
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - E Saldaña
- Department of Agri-food Industry, Food and Nutrition, "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture, University of Sao Paulo, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - I Ishimura
- Sao Paulo State Agency for Agribusiness Technology (APTA), Sao Roque, SP, Brazil
| | - M Landgraf
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - B D G M Franco
- Food Research Center (FoRC), Department of Food and Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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28
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Castro VS, Figueiredo EEDS, Stanford K, McAllister T, Conte-Junior CA. Shiga-Toxin Producing Escherichia Coli in Brazil: A Systematic Review. Microorganisms 2019; 7:E137. [PMID: 31100803 PMCID: PMC6560443 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7050137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC) can cause serious illnesses, including hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome. This is the first systematic review of STEC in Brazil, and will report the main serogroups detected in animals, food products and foodborne diseases. Data were obtained from online databases accessed in January 2019. Papers were selected from each database using the Mesh term entries. Although no human disease outbreaks in Brazil related to STEC has been reported, the presence of several serogroups such as O157 and O111 has been verified in animals, food, and humans. Moreover, other serogroups monitored by international federal agencies and involved in outbreak cases worldwide were detected, and other unusual strains were involved in some isolated individual cases of foodborne disease, such as serotype O118:H16 and serogroup O165. The epidemiological data presented herein indicates the presence of several pathogenic serogroups, including O157:H7, O26, O103, and O111, which have been linked to disease outbreaks worldwide. As available data are concentrated in the Sao Paulo state and almost completely lacking in outlying regions, epidemiological monitoring in Brazil for STEC needs to be expanded and food safety standards for this pathogen should be aligned to that of the food safety standards of international bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius Silva Castro
- Institute of Chemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-909 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Agronomy and Animal Science College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Nutrition College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Department of Food Technology, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, 24230-340 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo Eustáquio de Souza Figueiredo
- Agronomy and Animal Science College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Nutrition College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, #100-5401 1st Ave. S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V6, Canada.
| | - Kim Stanford
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, #100-5401 1st Ave. S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V6, Canada.
| | - Tim McAllister
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, 5403 1st Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4B1, Canada.
| | - Carlos Adam Conte-Junior
- Institute of Chemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-909 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Department of Food Technology, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, 24230-340 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- National Institute of Health Quality Control, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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29
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Tombini Decol L, López-Gálvez F, Truchado P, Tondo EC, Gil MI, Allende A. Suitability of chlorine dioxide as a tertiary treatment for municipal wastewater and use of reclaimed water for overhead irrigation of baby lettuce. Food Control 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2018.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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30
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Adegoke AA, Amoah ID, Stenström TA, Verbyla ME, Mihelcic JR. Epidemiological Evidence and Health Risks Associated With Agricultural Reuse of Partially Treated and Untreated Wastewater: A Review. Front Public Health 2018; 6:337. [PMID: 30574474 PMCID: PMC6292135 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of partially treated and untreated wastewater for irrigation is beneficial in agriculture but may be associated with human health risks. Reports from different locations globally have linked microbial outbreaks with agricultural reuse of wastewater. This article reviews the epidemiological evidence and health risks associated with this practice, aiming toward evidence-based conclusions. Exposure pathways that were addressed in this review included those relevant to agricultural workers and their families, consumers of crops, and residents close to areas irrigated with wastewater (partially treated or untreated). A meta-analysis gave an overall odds ratio of 1.65 (95% CI: 1.31, 2.06) for diarrheal disease and 5.49 (95% CI: 2.49, 12.10) for helminth infections for exposed agricultural workers and family members. The risks were higher among children and immunocompromised individuals than in immunocompetent adults. Predominantly skin and intestinal infections were prevalent among individuals infected mainly via occupational exposure and ingestion. Food-borne outbreaks as a result of crops (fruits and vegetables) irrigated with partially or untreated wastewater have been widely reported. Contamination of crops with enteric viruses, fecal coliforms, and bacterial pathogens, parasites including soil-transmitted helminthes (STHs), as well as occurrence of antibiotic residues and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) have also been evidenced. The antibiotic residues and ARGs may get internalized in crops along with pathogens and may select for antibiotic resistance, exert ecotoxicity, and lead to bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms with high risk quotient (RQ). Appropriate mitigation lies in adhering to existing guidelines such as the World Health Organization wastewater reuse guidelines and to Sanitation Safety Plans (SSPs). Additionally, improvement in hygiene practices will also provide measures against adverse health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony A. Adegoke
- SARChI, Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria
| | - Isaac D. Amoah
- SARChI, Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thor A. Stenström
- SARChI, Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Matthew E. Verbyla
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - James R. Mihelcic
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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31
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Quantitative microbial exposure modelling as a tool to evaluate the impact of contamination level of surface irrigation water and seasonality on fecal hygiene indicator E. coli in leafy green production. Food Microbiol 2018; 75:82-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2018.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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32
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Lee D, Tertuliano M, Vellidis G, Harris C, Grossman MK, Rajeev S, Levy K. Evaluation of Grower-Friendly, Science-Based Sampling Approaches for the Detection of Salmonella in Ponds Used for Irrigation of Fresh Produce. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2018; 15:627-636. [PMID: 30334659 PMCID: PMC6201782 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2018.2441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The recognition that irrigation water sources contribute to preharvest contamination of produce has led to new regulations on testing microbial water quality. To best identify contamination problems, growers who depend on irrigation ponds need guidance on how and where to collect water samples for testing. In this study, we evaluated several sampling strategies to identify Salmonella and Escherichia coli contamination in five ponds used for irrigation on produce farms in southern Georgia. Both Salmonella and E. coli were detected regularly in all the ponds over the 19-month study period, with overall prevalence and concentrations increasing in late summer and early fall. Of 507 water samples, 217 (42.8%) were positive for Salmonella, with a very low geometric mean (GM) concentration of 0.06 most probable number (MPN)/100 mL, and 442 (87.1%) tested positive for E. coli, with a GM of 6.40 MPN/100 mL. We found no significant differences in Salmonella or E. coli detection rates or concentrations between sampling at the bank closest to the pump intake versus sampling from the bank around the pond perimeter, when comparing with results from the pump intake, which we considered our gold standard. However, samples collected from the bank closest to the intake had a greater level of agreement with the intake (Cohen's kappa statistic = 0.53; p < 0.001) than the samples collected around the pond perimeter (kappa = 0.34; p = 0.009). E. coli concentrations were associated with increased odds of Salmonella detection (odds ratio = 1.31; 95% confidence interval = 1.10-1.56). All the ponds would have met the Produce Safety Rule standards for E. coli, although Salmonella was also detected. Results from this study provide important information to growers and regulators about pathogen detection in irrigation ponds and inform best practices for surface water sampling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie Lee
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Moukaram Tertuliano
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia, Tifton, Georgia
| | - George Vellidis
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia, Tifton, Georgia
| | - Casey Harris
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of Georgia, Tifton, Georgia
| | - Marissa K. Grossman
- Program in Population Biology, Ecology, and Evolution, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sreekumari Rajeev
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory, Tifton, Georgia
| | - Karen Levy
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Alegbeleye OO, Singleton I, Sant'Ana AS. Sources and contamination routes of microbial pathogens to fresh produce during field cultivation: A review. Food Microbiol 2018; 73:177-208. [PMID: 29526204 PMCID: PMC7127387 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Foodborne illness resulting from the consumption of contaminated fresh produce is a common phenomenon and has severe effects on human health together with severe economic and social impacts. The implications of foodborne diseases associated with fresh produce have urged research into the numerous ways and mechanisms through which pathogens may gain access to produce, thereby compromising microbiological safety. This review provides a background on the various sources and pathways through which pathogenic bacteria contaminate fresh produce; the survival and proliferation of pathogens on fresh produce while growing and potential methods to reduce microbial contamination before harvest. Some of the established bacterial contamination sources include contaminated manure, irrigation water, soil, livestock/ wildlife, and numerous factors influence the incidence, fate, transport, survival and proliferation of pathogens in the wide variety of sources where they are found. Once pathogenic bacteria have been introduced into the growing environment, they can colonize and persist on fresh produce using a variety of mechanisms. Overall, microbiological hazards are significant; therefore, ways to reduce sources of contamination and a deeper understanding of pathogen survival and growth on fresh produce in the field are required to reduce risk to human health and the associated economic consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ian Singleton
- School of Applied Sciences, Sighthill Campus, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anderson S Sant'Ana
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
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34
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Truchado P, Hernandez N, Gil MI, Ivanek R, Allende A. Correlation between E. coli levels and the presence of foodborne pathogens in surface irrigation water: Establishment of a sampling program. WATER RESEARCH 2018; 128:226-233. [PMID: 29107907 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2017.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
To establish the association between microbial indicators and the presence of foodborne pathogens in irrigation water, Escherichia coli was enumerated using two quantification methods (plate counts and PMA-qPCR) and presence/absence of pathogenic microorganisms, including five strains from the Shiga toxigenic E. coli (O157:H7, O26, O103, O111 and O145) and Salmonella spp. were evaluated. The results confirmed that surface water can be considered a microbial hazard when used for irrigation. The levels of viable E. coli were very similar to those of cultivable E. coli, except for irrigation water obtained from water reservoirs. Comparison between the E. coli counts in samples positive and negative for the presence of pathogenic bacteria for the evaluated water sources identified E. coli level of 2.35 log cfu/100 mL as a cut-off able to correctly predict positive and negative samples with 93% sensitivity and 66% specificity, respectively. Thus, for the samples with levels of E. coli under 2.35 log cfu/100 mL (e.g., 2.24 log cfu/100 mL) there was a 90% probability that the samples were not contaminated with pathogenic microorganism in locations with similar prevalence. E. coli levels in irrigation water were affected by the ambient temperature confirming that water source and climate conditions should be taken into account by growers when designing a sampling program and the frequency of the monitoring to make a better and more efficient use of their resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Truchado
- Research Group on Quality, Safety and Bioactivity of Plant Foods, CEBAS-CSIC, Campus Universitario de Espinardo, 25, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Natalia Hernandez
- Research Group on Quality, Safety and Bioactivity of Plant Foods, CEBAS-CSIC, Campus Universitario de Espinardo, 25, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria I Gil
- Research Group on Quality, Safety and Bioactivity of Plant Foods, CEBAS-CSIC, Campus Universitario de Espinardo, 25, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Renata Ivanek
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NW, USA
| | - Ana Allende
- Research Group on Quality, Safety and Bioactivity of Plant Foods, CEBAS-CSIC, Campus Universitario de Espinardo, 25, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
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Meneghine AK, Nielsen S, Varani AM, Thomas T, Carareto Alves LM. Metagenomic analysis of soil and freshwater from zoo agricultural area with organic fertilization. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0190178. [PMID: 29267397 PMCID: PMC5739480 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial communities drive biogeochemical cycles in agricultural areas by decomposing organic materials and converting essential nutrients. Organic amendments improve soil quality by increasing the load of essential nutrients and enhancing the productivity. Additionally, fresh water used for irrigation can affect soil quality of agricultural soils, mainly due to the presence of microbial contaminants and pathogens. In this study, we investigated how microbial communities in irrigation water might contribute to the microbial diversity and function of soil. Whole-metagenomic sequencing approaches were used to investigate the taxonomic and the functional profiles of microbial communities present in fresh water used for irrigation, and in soil from a vegetable crop, which received fertilization with organic compost made from animal carcasses. The taxonomic analysis revealed that the most abundant genera were Polynucleobacter (~8% relative abundance) and Bacillus (~10%) in fresh water and soil from the vegetable crop, respectively. Low abundance (0.38%) of cyanobacterial groups were identified. Based on functional gene prediction, denitrification appears to be an important process in the soil community analysed here. Conversely, genes for nitrogen fixation were abundant in freshwater, indicating that the N-fixation plays a crucial role in this particular ecosystem. Moreover, pathogenicity islands, antibiotic resistance and potential virulence related genes were identified in both samples, but no toxigenic genes were detected. This study provides a better understanding of the community structure of an area under strong agricultural activity with regular irrigation and fertilization with an organic compost made from animal carcasses. Additionally, the use of a metagenomic approach to investigate fresh water quality proved to be a relevant method to evaluate its use in an agricultural ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aylan K. Meneghine
- Department of Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Jaboticabal, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Shaun Nielsen
- Centre for Marine Bio-Innovation, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alessandro M. Varani
- Department of Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Jaboticabal, São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Torsten Thomas
- Centre for Marine Bio-Innovation, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lucia Maria Carareto Alves
- Department of Technology, São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Jaboticabal, São Paulo State, Brazil
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