Isolation, Identification and Antibiotic Susceptibility Profiling of Microorganisms from SALAD (Street Food)

Street-vended salads are popular due to their affordability and accessibility but pose significant public health risks due to potential microbial contamination. This study aims to isolate, identify, and assess the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of microorganisms present in street-vended salads. Samples were collected from various vendors in urban areas and subjected to microbiological analyses, including culturing, Gram staining, biochemical tests, and antibiotic susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The findings reveal the presence of pathogenic bacteria including Lactobacillus and Salmonella many isolates exhibited multidrug resistance, emphasizing the urgent need for better food hygiene practices and regular monitoring of street food. Salad, a Indian vendor street food, is susceptible to microbial contamination, posing potential health risks. In this study we have investigated the microbiological quality of “Salads” sample collected from street vendor in Madhyamgram, Kolkata. Total plate count and the presence of pathogens such as Lactobacillus and Salmonella were assessed using standard microbiological techniques including culturing on selective media and biochemical tests, were employed for isolation presumptive identifiction. The results revealed the high microbial loads in a significant percentage of samples, presence of specific pathogens exceeding permicible limits. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby- Bauer disc diffusion method against the pannel of clinically relevant antibiotics such as Gentamycin, Tetracycline, Ampicilline. These findings highlight potential public health risks associated with the consumption of street vendour Salads and underscore the need for improved hygiene practices and preparation of Salads to minimise microbial contamination and the spread of antibiotics resistant bacteria, thereby safeguarding public health.