Microbiological contamination of ready-to-eat sliced pineapple sold in commercial parts of Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria.

This study evaluated the microbiological contamination of ready-to-eat sliced pineapple sold in Apete, Sango, and University of Ibadan markets. The anaerobic plate counts for all samples exceeded international standards. A total of eighteen bacterial species were identified, with Lactobacillus species being the most prevalent, accounting for 35% of the isolates. Six fungal species were also isolated, with Penicillium species being the most common, occurring at a frequency of 50%. Antibiotic sensitivity tests revealed that Ofloxacin, Gentamycin, and Ciprofloxacin demonstrated the greatest inhibitory properties against the isolates. The high levels of microbial contamination and the presence of potential pathogens pose significant risks to public health, underscoring the importance of enhanced hygiene practices and increased consumer awareness. These findings imply that Ofloxacin, Gentamycin, and Ciprofloxacin could be effective treatments for food borne infections resulting from the consumption of contaminated ready-to-eat sliced pineapple.