Prevalence of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from Ocimum basilicum sold at the traditional market in Indonesia

Abstract

Ocimum basilicum, also known as basil, is commonly consumed uncooked and can spread foodborne infections. Escherichia coli is one of the germs that can cause food poisoning. Antibiotic resistance has previously been linked to these microorganisms. This study aimed to analyze E. coli resistance in basil sold in traditional markets in Jember. The basil used in the study was acquired at eight local markets in Jember. Isolation, identification of bacteria, and antibiotic susceptibility tests from basil were carried out in the microbiology laboratory of the medical faculty of the University of Jember. This investigation included 40 basil vendor samples. Isolation and identification test used Eosin Methylene Blue agar. The resistance of E. coli to Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin, Ceftriaxone, Cefixime, Ampicillin, Azithromycin, Cefotaxime, and Cotrimoxazole was determined using the Kirby Bauer diffusion method. According to this analysis, all basil samples were dangerous for direct consumption, with the highest incidence of E. coli resistance to Amoxicillin and Cefixime antibiotics and the lowest prevalence of Ciprofloxacin resistance. Multi-drug resistant (MDR) E. coli strains were found in most basil E. coli isolates. Good agricultural practices on farms and sterilizing fresh vegetables before eating are highly suggested to avoid potential public health hazards.