Contamination of Fresh Vegetables with Soil-transmitted Helminths in Selected Markets in Albay, Philippines

Publisher: Bicol University PDF

Abstract

Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are foodborne parasites associated with fresh vegetables. In this study, the occurrence of STH were assessed in selected open air markets and hypermarkets in Legazpi and Daraga, Albay, Philippines. A total of 96 of six various vegetables were collected which includes carrot (Daucus carota), camote (Ipomoea batatas), potato (Solanum tuberosum), cabbage (Brassica oleracea), water spinach (Ipomea aquatica), and pechay (Brassica rapa). After washing and sedimentation, microscopic observations were performed for identification of the parasite. Ascaris sp., Ancyclostoma sp./Strongyloides sp., Toxocara sp., Trichuris sp. and Trichostrongylus sp. were the detected parasites on vegetables. Ascaris sp. was the frequently detected parasite (40.643%). Majority of the vegetables (66.66%) were presented with STH. Among the vegetables, the leafy vegetable petchay had 100% detection rate followed by carrots (76.19%). !e parasite load in supermarket were significant lower in supermarket (66.66%) in comparison with public market (80.43%). Further, the market type, washing and wrapping before display of vegetables showed statistically significant association with STH prevalence. Findings indicate that vegetables may be a potential source of STH infection and proper handling and washing should be observed in order to diminish the risk of contracting STH. To date, this is the first report of STH recovered from vegetables sourced from selected markets in Albay, Philippines.