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

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.. 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.. 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.. 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.. 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..