Incidence of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis in Some Meat Products

A total of one hundred samples of domestically produced meat products, including frozen beef kofta, sausage, burger and luncheon (25 of each), were randomly collected from various shops in El-Menoufia governorate, Egypt. The samples underwent bacteriological examination using the conventional approach to detect the presence of S. aureus and E. faecalis. Additionally, 40% of these samples were subjected to PCR analysis. The test findings indicated the presence of S. aureus and E. faecalis. S. aureus was found in 68%, 60%, 48%, and 36% of the previously analyzed samples, respectively. Enterococcus faecalis was found also in 12%, 52%, 20%, and 40% of the previously analyzed samples, respectively. S. aureus was identified using PCR in 90% of each (frozen kofta samples, sausage samples, burger samples), and 80% of the luncheon samples. E. faecalis was found in 0%, 80%, 30%, and 50% of the same analyzed samples, respectively. The present study revealed that some meat products were contaminated with S. aureus and E. faecalis, especially beef kofta, burgers, sausage, and luncheon products. The unsanitary conditions in which these meat products were handled are the primary factors contributing to the elevated levels of S. aureus and E. faecalis seen in this investigation. Effective manufacturing protocols can help to minimize contamination.