PCR for direct detection food pathogen Listeria monocytogenes and Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli from milk and milk products in Al-Diwanyia city of Iraq

Abstract

The current study was carried out to directly detect Listeria monocytogenes as well as enteropathogenic Escherichia coli bacterium from daily consumed milk and milk products (buffalo raw milk, local cheese, and local cream) which were collected randomly from different markets of Al-Qadissiya province. In this study the PCR techniques were employed on the basis of amplifying virulence factors (bfpA and hly genes) in L. monocytogenes and enteropathogenic E. coli respectively. Analysis of the results showed the highest prevalence of L. monocytogenes (14.2%) in local cheese which was followed by 6.2% in buffalo raw milk and less prevalence (3.4%) were found in local cream. Analysis of the results of enteropathogenic E. coli revealed highest prevalence (37.5%) in buffalo raw milk while local cheese and local cream showed the same prevalence (20%). This study successfully developed and used PCR technique that was prompt and sensitive/specific in detecting food born pathogenic L. monocytogenes and enteropathogenic E. coli. This technique could be used as an alternative to the other methods, making it possible to identify the risk for these pathogens on public health.