# The Prevalence of Microorganisms on Vegetables and Fruit from Wet Markets in Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand

## TL;DR

This study examines the presence of harmful microorganisms on vegetables and fruits from wet markets in Chiang Mai, Thailand, highlighting food safety concerns.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the prevalence of Proteus spp. and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in raw food from local wet markets.

## Key findings

- No Salmonella enterica was detected in any of the food samples.
- Proteus spp. were found in varying percentages in cabbage, Chinese cabbage, and lettuce.
- ESBL-producing Klebsiella oxytoca was detected in a raw tomato sample.

## Abstract

Foodborne diseases remain a public health issue worldwide. Inadequate attention to food safety and hygiene increases the risk of opportunistic pathogens and resistant bacteria spreading to people through the food chain, leading to foodborne diseases. To investigate food safety in our region, this study aims to measure the prevalence of microorganisms on raw food materials randomly purchased from wet markets in Chiang Mai province, Northern Thailand. In this study, microbial cultures, identified by MALDITOF-MS techniques, were used to determine the microflora and antibiotic-resistance organisms on raw vegetables and fruit. Consequently, to confirm antibiotic resistance, the antimicrobial susceptibility techniques were performed. The results found no Salmonella enterica was detected on the overall food samples. For Proteus spp. detection, P. mirabilis were detected at 3.23% in cabbage, 3.57% in Chinese cabbage, and 6.67% in lettuce, while P. vulgaris were detected at 7.14% in Chinese cabbage and 3.57% in peppermint. No Proteus spp. was detected in basils, tomatoes and grapes. In addition, for antibiotic-resistance detection, only ESBL-producing Klebsiella oxytoca was detected in the raw tomato sample (3.57%). According to the study’s findings, people who participate in the food process should be aware of their food safety and hygiene.