Comparison of the bacterial contamination between conventionally grown vegetables and vegetables labelled as organic sold in local markets in Sri Lanka

The comparison of bacterial contamination between conventionally grown and vegetables labelled as organically grown, sold in local markets in Sri Lanka, was carried out to evaluate potential public health risks. A total of 10 vegetable samples, comprising both conventional and organic produce, were collected from various local markets. The samples were tested for the presence of key indicator bacteria, namely Staphylococcus aureus , Escherichia coli , and other bacterial species, which are commonly associated with foodborne illnesses. DNA was extracted from the samples using the cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) method to ensure efficient and pure DNA isolation. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was then performed to detect the bacterial DNA, allowing for precise identification and quantification of bacterial contamination. Results showed a significantly higher level of contamination in conventionally grown vegetables compared to organic-labelled ones, with E. coli and S. aureus being the most prevalent pathogens. These findings raise concerns about the safety of conventionally grown produce and underline the importance of effective hygiene practices in both farming and post-harvest handling processes. The study calls for greater regulation and monitoring of food safety, especially in Sri Lanka’s rapidly growing local markets.