Bacteriological Quality and Antibiotic Resistance Profiles of Fresh Vegetables Irrigated With Wastewater in Peri-Urban Farming Communities in Nigeria

Background

The use of untreated wastewater for irrigation has become increasingly common in peri-urban agricultural communities due to water scarcity and economic pressures. While wastewater irrigation may improve crop production, it can introduce pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria into the food chain. Consumption of contaminated vegetables poses significant public health risks, particularly when produce is eaten raw. Monitoring bacterial contamination and resistance patterns is essential for ensuring food safety and preventing disease transmission. This study seeks to assess the bacteriological quality and antibiotic resistance profiles of bacteria isolated from vegetables irrigated with wastewater.

Research Objectives

• Assess bacterial contamination of irrigated vegetables.
• Identify bacterial species present on vegetable samples.
• Determine antimicrobial resistance profiles of isolates.
• Evaluate the prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria.
• Assess environmental factors associated with contamination.

Research Questions

• What is the bacterial contamination level of irrigated vegetables?
• Which bacterial species are commonly isolated?
• What are the antimicrobial resistance patterns of the isolates?
• How prevalent are multidrug-resistant bacteria?
• Which environmental factors contribute to contamination?

Suggested Methodology

Suggested Sample

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