Molecular Identification of Escherichia coli Isolated from Street Foods: Global Evidence and Public Health Implications

Escherichia coli (E. coli) pathotypes present in contaminated food, street food, or water are major contributors to foodborne illnesses. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods are widely applied to detect and confirm E. coli pathotypes in food samples, thereby supporting outbreak prevention efforts. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive and reliable review of the molecular identification of E. coli isolated from street foods and to examine its public health implications. The review followed the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) guidelines and included data retrieved from seven electronic scientific databases covering the period from 1 January 2015, to 15 August 2025. Relevant full-text articles were identified using the search string (“Street food”) AND (Escherichia coli), and only those that met established inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. A total of 23 studies from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America were included. These studies analyzed a wide range of street foods and beverages. MacConkey Agar and Eosin Methylene Blue Agar were the primary culture media used for the growth and isolation of E. coli. PCR was employed in 50% of the studies to amplify specific DNA segments, enabling the identification of eight E. coli pathotypes: EHEC, ETEC, EAEC (Eagg), EIEC, EPEC, UPEC, DAEC, and APEC. Additionally, a few studies reported phylogroups such as A, B1, B2, C, D, E, and Clade 1. The prevalence of E. coli in street foods varied widely, ranging from 0.5% in Chile to 100% in Mexico. Overall, this systematic review provides an updated scientific overview highlighting persistent challenges in street food safety and E. coli contamination. Across studies, three recurring issues were identified: (1) inadequate and unhygienic vending locations, (2) poor quality of food, and (3) inappropriate food preparation practices. These findings underscore the need for strategic interventions. The evidence presented could support governments and the scientific community in advancing research on E. coli in street foods and implementing corrective measures at local or regional scales, such as educational campaigns for vendors and consumers.