“Calidad microbiológica de ensaladas cocidas expendidas en el mercado 10 de Agosto de la ciudad de Cuenca - Ecuador; mayo 2023”

Abstract

Introduction: One of the public health problems that has increased the most at present is foodborne diseases (FBD). In this scenario, E. coli bacteria and other coliforms are part of the causative agents of these food pathologies and are indicative of poor hygiene or food handling habits. Objective: To determine the microbiological quality of cooked salads sold in the ‘10 de Agosto’ market in the city of Cuenca - Ecuador; in May 2023. Materials and methods: The universe consists of the ‘10 de Agosto’ market in the city of Cuenca. Thirty-two samples will be collected for the identification of E. coli/coliforms in cooked salads, using Compact Dry EC plates. Colony Forming Units (CFU) of E. coli/coliforms in cooked salads will also be quantified according to INEN 1529-7. Results: The presence of E. coli/coliforms was determined in 100% of cooked salads sold in the ‘10 de Agosto’ market in the city of Cuenca. Conclusion: The presence of E. coli/coliforms was determined in all samples of cooked salads from the ‘10 de Agosto’ market in the city of Cuenca, during the period May 2023.