Prevalence and determinants of parasitic contamination on fruits and vegetables in gedeo zone, Ethiopia: Implications for foodborne disease.
Parasitic contamination in fruits and vegetables is prevalent in the Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia, highlighting the need for improved food safety practices and vendor hygiene.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the cjc-1295 without dac (modified grf 1-29) corpusSummary and findings
This study assessed the prevalence of parasitic contamination on fruits and vegetables in the Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia. Among 442 samples, 33.5% were contaminated with intestinal parasites, with Entamoeba histolytica/dispar being the most common. Contamination was higher in produce displayed on the floor and associated with open markets and vendors with untrimmed fingernails.
Abstract
Fruits and vegetables are vital to a healthy diet; however, consuming unwashed or improperly prepared produce can lead to parasitic infections. This study aims to provide evidence-based information on the extent of parasitic contamination and its associated factors on fruits and vegetables from the Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 26 to July 25, 2025, in Dilla, Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia, to assess parasitic contamination of fruits and vegetables. A multistage sampling technique was employed. Socio-demographic data and potential contamination risk factors were gathered using structured questionnaires. About 200 g of each sample was examined for intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Among the 442 fruit and vegetable samples examined, 148 (33.5%) were found to be contaminated with intestinal parasites. Among the 148 samples found to be positive by iodine wet mount examination, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was the predominant parasite (13.8%). Moreover, produces displayed on the floor had significantly higher contamination than those on shelves/tables (AOR = 6.85; p < 0.001). Contamination was also significantly associated with samples from open markets, collected from the farms, and vendors with untrimmed fingernails. Parasitic contamination in fruits and vegetables was found to be high. Therefore, food and drug authorities and public health institutions should raise awareness among vendors and consumers about safe handling and consumption, while city administrations and the agricultural sector promote hygienic markets and proper farming and transportation practices.
Background
The study addresses the issue of parasitic contamination in fruits and vegetables, which is a significant public health concern in regions with inadequate food safety practices. Previous studies have highlighted the risks associated with consuming contaminated produce, but there is limited data specific to the Gedeo Zone in Ethiopia. This research aims to fill that gap by providing evidence-based information on contamination rates and associated risk factors.
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Dilla, Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia, from March 26 to July 25, 2025. The study used a multistage sampling technique to select fruit and vegetable samples. Each sample, weighing approximately 200 g, was examined for intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. Socio-demographic data and potential risk factors were collected through structured questionnaires, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.
Results
The study found that 33.5% of the 442 fruit and vegetable samples were contaminated with intestinal parasites. Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was the most prevalent parasite, detected in 13.8% of the positive samples. Produce displayed on the floor had a significantly higher contamination rate compared to those on shelves or tables, with an adjusted odds ratio of 6.85 (p < 0.001). Contamination was also significantly associated with samples from open markets, those collected directly from farms, and vendors with untrimmed fingernails.
Interpretation
The findings indicate a high prevalence of parasitic contamination in fruits and vegetables in the Gedeo Zone, suggesting a need for improved food safety practices. While the contamination rate is statistically significant, the study's regional focus limits its generalizability. The association with specific risk factors, such as display conditions and vendor hygiene, aligns with existing literature on foodborne contamination. However, the reliance on observational data and self-reported socio-demographic factors introduces potential biases.
Key findings
- 33.5% contamination rate among 442 samples.
- Entamoeba histolytica/dispar found in 13.8% of positive samples.
- Higher contamination in produce displayed on the floor (AOR = 6.85; p < 0.001).
- Contamination associated with open markets and farm-collected samples.
Limitations
- Specific to Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia.
- Relies on self-reported socio-demographic data.
- Observational study design.
- Potential bias in sampling technique.