ISOLATION, BIOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND MOLECULAR TYPING OF SALMONELLA ENTERICA FROM FRESH MEAT. PUBLIC HEALTH PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Salmonella enterica is associated with foodborne infections throughout the world, making its presence in fresh meat a serious public health concern. To determine the Potential risk to human health, this study aimed to Isolate, biochemically Characterize, and molecularly type S. enterica strains from fresh meat samples. Four fresh meat samples of pork, chicken, and beef were Collected from different markets and examined microbiologically. Isolation was carried out using selective enrichment and differential media, followed by Gram staining and biochemical confirmation. Molecular identification was performed using 16S rRNA sequencing, and chromatogram analysis confirmed the species identity. PCR was used to detect key antibiotic resistance and virulence genes (invA, hilA, and stn). Phylogenetic tree analysis and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) provided insight into genetic diversity and epidemiological linkages of the isolates. This study highlights the importance of regular monitoring of meat for S. enterica to mitigate public health risks. Our results emphasize the need for improved food safety protocols and antimicrobial stewardship. The integration of biochemical and molecular tools offers a robust framework for the surveillance and control of Salmonella in the food chain.Salmonella enterica is associated with foodborne infections throughout the world, making its presence in fresh meat a serious public health concern. To determine the Potential risk to human health, this study aimed to Isolate, biochemically Characterize, and molecularly type S. enterica strains from fresh meat samples. Four fresh meat samples of pork, chicken, and beef were Collected from different markets and examined microbiologically. Isolation was carried out using selective enrichment and differential media, followed by Gram staining and biochemical confirmation. Molecular identification was performed using 16S rRNA sequencing, and chromatogram analysis confirmed the species identity. PCR was used to detect key antibiotic resistance and virulence genes (invA, hilA, and stn). Phylogenetic tree analysis and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) provided insight into genetic diversity and epidemiological linkages of the isolates. This study highlights the importance of regular monitoring of meat for S. enterica to mitigate public health risks. Our results emphasize the need for improved food safety protocols and antimicrobial stewardship. The integration of biochemical and molecular tools offers a robust framework for the surveillance and control of Salmonella in the food chain.