Parasitic Contamination of Fresh Vegetables Used for Salads in Corum, Türkiye: Molecular and Microscopic Evidence.

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables are vital for nutrition and disease prevention but are prone to contamination throughout the production and postharvest chain. The risk of foodborne infections has increased with the globalization of food supply chains. Foodborne parasites are an emerging public health concern, posing particular risks for populations consuming raw or minimally processed produce. This study investigated parasitic contamination in raw vegetables used to prepare salads sold in Corum Province, Türkiye. From October 2020 to March 2021, 80 locally produced vegetable samples were collected from the central wholesale market. After standardized washing and centrifugation, sediments were examined microscopically, and DNA was extracted for molecular detection of Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Entamoeba, and Blastocystis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. Overall, 22/80 samples (27.5%) were positive for parasites by both microscopy and PCR. The highest percentages of total samples contaminated were observed in lettuce (8.8%), parsley (6.3%), and arugula (5.0%). Microscopy revealed 13 protozoan cysts and 10 helminth eggs, while PCR identified Blastocystis spp. (15%), Cryptosporidium spp. (3.8%), and Giardia spp. (1.3%). Sequence analysis confirmed Blastocystis ST1, Giardia duodenalis Assemblage A, and Cryptosporidium parvum, all with recognized zoonotic potential. These findings suggest that fresh vegetables in Türkiye may contribute to zoonotic transmission, emphasizing the importance of improved produce hygiene and monitoring. Our findings highlight the urgent need for preventive measures to reduce foodborne parasitic infections in consumers.