MICROBIAL HAZARDS IN STREET FOODS: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY IN DHAKA, BANGLADESH

This study aimed to assess the bacteriological quality and antibiotic resistance of ready-to-eat street foods sold in various locations across Dhaka City. Eight samples were collected from different vendors and analyzed for the presence of foodborne pathogens and their resistance to antibiotics. The findings revealed significant contamination with E. coli, Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Vibrio spp., and Staphylococcus aureus. Total aerobic counts (TAC) ranged from 4.6 × 10⁵ to 9.5 × 10⁷ CFU/g, exceeding acceptable limits set by the International Commission for Microbiological Specifications for Foods (ICMSF). The total coliform count and Enterobacteriaceae count also showed alarmingly high levels. Antibiotic susceptibility tests indicated widespread resistance, particularly to Penicillin G, which was ineffective against all isolates. The results underscore the urgent need for improved food safety practices, regular inspections, and vendor education to mitigate the public health risks associated with street-vended foods in Dhaka City.