Prevalence of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in Beef, Buffalo and Lamb Using Multiplex PCR

Background: Meat contamination has been linked to consumer health problems, as proved by outbreaks and recalls from market places. Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella spp. are considered among the most important pathogens which can be spread through meat and meat products consumption. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of E. coli O157: H7, L. monocytogenes, and Salmonella spp. in different kinds of meat marketed in Ahvaz, South-west part of Iran. Materials and Methods: A total of 210 samples of beef, buffalo and lamb meats were collected from retail outlets and popular supermarkets. After each single pathogen and DNA extraction, multiplex PCR as a rapid and cost-effective method was carried out to determine the prevalence of the pathogens in the samples. Results: L. monocytogenes was detected in 2.8% of beef and buffalo samples and 4.3% of lamb samples. E. coli O157: H7 was detected in 2.8% of beef and 1.4% of buffalo samples. However, no contamination with this pathogen was found in lamb samples. The prevalence of Salmonella spp. in beef, buffalo and lamb samples was 4.3, 2.8 and 7.1%, respectively. Conclusions: Due to the presence and potential hazard of E. coli O157: H7, L. monocytogenes, and Salmonella spp. in meat samples, the detection of these pathogens in different kinds of meat is crucial to safeguard public health.