Isolation and Identification of Bacteria Diversity of Street Vended Food

Proliferation of bacterial contaminants in street food and refreshment drinks are the major cause of several gastrointestinal infections in organisms. This is owing to the fact that vendors often operate without adherence to proper hygiene practices, leading consumers to the risk of contracting foodborne diseases; as many people depend on street food for nutrition. The aim of this study is to give insights into food safety and safer handling. Food samples (meat-pies, Zobo and Kunu) prepared and sold by vendors were collected for laboratory analysis. Serial dilution, pour plate and streaking methods were performed to access the bacterial count and contaminants, while biochemical tests, such as Catalase tests and Gram staining were performed for pin-pointing specificity in identification of different bacteria isolates in the food samples. The findings of this study revealed a high prevalence of bacterial contamination in street-vended foods and drinks with high levels of contamination such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. And Proteus species; owing to poor hygiene practices and inadequate knowledge of food safety making it a public health concern. “Health is Wealth”, sanitation exercises and regular health inspections should be made to enhance food safety and reduce contamination levels. There is a need for taskforce on food hygiene on campus to be alive to their responsibility if available.