CONVENTIONAL ISOLATION AND MOLECULAR-LEVEL IDENTIFICATION OF AEROMONAS FROM MEAT SAMPLES: A FOOD SAFETY PERSPECTIVE
Foodborne diseases pose a significant threat to public health, with bacterial contamination of meat being a major concern. Among emerging foodborne pathogens, Aeromonas species have been linked to gastroenteritis, septicemia, and wound infections. This study aimed to isolate and identify Aeromonas species from retail meat samples using conventional cultural and biochemical methods, followed by molecular confirmation through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A total of 200 meat samples (50 from each type: fish, chicken, mutton, and pork) were collected from various retail markets in Chennai, India. Presumptive Aeromonas isolates were identified using selective plating on Ampicillin Dextrin Agar (ADA), followed by biochemical tests such as oxidase, catalase, Triple Sugar Iron (TSI) test, and citrate utilization. Molecular characterization was performed using species-specific primers targeting 16S rRNA, gyrB, and rpoB genes. The highest prevalence of Aeromonas species was found in pork (62%), followed by mutton (48%), fish (44%) and chicken (36%). PCR analysis confirmed the presence of Aeromonas species and distinguished different strains, validating the accuracy of biochemical identification methods. The study underscores the necessity of integrating conventional and molecular techniques for reliable identification and surveillance of Aeromonas in food sources. Enhanced regulatory measures and routine monitoring of meat products are essential to mitigate the risks associated with Aeromonas contamination and to safeguard public health.