Investigation of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes in Seafood by Cultural Methods and PCR

Abstract

The present study was conducted to investigate the presence of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes in 700 seafood (400 raw fish, 100 raw shrimps and 200 raw molluscs) collected from retailers. Isolations were performed by conventional culture methods. The isolates were also confirmed by PCR assays. Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes were detected in 9.9% and 3.86% fish and shellfish samples, respectively. The highest rates of Salmonella spp. (12.5%) were found in fish samples and L. monocytogenes (7.0%) were in shrimp samples. Therefore, it is essential to ensure improving the quality of production technology from fishing to retail outlet and developing the sanitation conditions of food contact surfaces and handling areas.