Antimicrobial Resistance among Bacterial Isolates from Chicken, Mutton, and Fish: A Public Health Risk Assessment

Introduction: Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) producers are an emerging public health concern because they are frequently resistant to several antibiotics and may be transmitted through food. This study was carried out to determine the presence of ESBL-producing bacteria in mutton, chicken, and fish samples collected from local markets in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, and to assess their antimicrobial resistance profiles. Methods: A total of 100 meat samples were collected from the local market in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Bacteria were isolated and identified using routine cultural and biochemical procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed using the disc diffusion method. The strains showing resistant and intermediate susceptibility were screened for ESBL production by using the double disc synergy test. Results: 76.1% of the samples had E.coli, and 86% of these isolates were found to produce ESBL. Overall, 50% of all meat samples examined had ESBLproducing E. coli. These isolates showed high levels of resistance to ceftazidime, aztreonam, cefotaxime, and ceftriaxone and exhibited Multidrug Resistance (MDR) patterns. Discussion: The high rate of ESBL-producing E. coli in retail meat samples emphasizes the spread of resistant pathogens through the food. The resistance pattern observed raises concerns regarding food safety and public health. Conclusion: The study shows that multidrug-resistant, ESBL-producing E. coli are frequently found in meat samples. These findings demonstrate the critical need for stringent food safety regulations, judicious use of antibiotics, and stronger surveillance systems to reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance.