Occurrence and associated risk factors of Bacillus cereus in fast foods in Jammu

In present study, 105 fast food samples were collected from vendors and retail market of Jammu and processed for isolation of B. cereus. Twenty seven isolates of B. cereus were obtained. So 25.71% fast food samples were positive for B. cereus. Highest occurrence was in fried rice 32%, followed by noodles 28.57%, momos 28%, pasta 18.75% and spring rolls 16.66% samples. During collection of samples randomly a semi structured questionnaire was used for collecting data regarding associated factors of transmission of pathogens from 20 food vendors across Jammu city. All the vendors were male mostly in age group of 18-30 years. 25% respondent acquired primary education, 20% acquired higher secondary level and 35% were illiterate. It revealed that mostly 18-30 years age group of unemployed youth were engaged in fast food service. Out of 20 food vendors, none of them received any training on food safety hygiene. Study revealed that 70% of food vendors had no knowledge about transmission of pathogenic microorganism through fast foods. 55% of food vendor had no knowledge about personal hygienic practices. Majority of vendors, 80% were always handling money during food service. Almost 75% of food vendors prepare food in open space.