Parasitic Contamination of Fresh Fruits Sold at Fruit Markets in Selected Local Government Areas of Lagos State, Nigeria

Aim: The purpose of this research was to examine selected fruits sold within the state of Lagos and to assess their level of contamination by parasites.

Methodology: It was carried out in Amuwo Odofin, Alimosho and Ojo Local Government Areas of Lagos State between April 2021 and July 2021. A total of hundred fruits were randomly purchased from three markets in the study areas. Samples collected included Apple (Malus domestica)(n =20), Grapefruit (Citrus maxima)(n =20), Golden melon (Cucumis melo)(n =20), Mango (Mangifera indica)(n =20), and Pear (Pyrus communis)(n =20). Laboratory analysis was done by using a light microscope to examine sediments gotten from washing the fruits with saline solution. Chi- square test of independence was also calculated to determine the relationship between the fruit type and parasite occurrence.

Results: Out of 100 samples collected, 74% were contaminated with 41% having a single contamination while 33% had multiple contamination. The apple was the most contaminated fruit with 85% of the fruit positive while golden melon was the least contaminated as only 60% of the fruit were positive. The parasites identified were Ascaris lumbricoides (71%), Entamoeba histolytica (18%), Enterobius vermicularis (10%), Giardia lamblia (16%), Hookworm species (44%), Strongyloides stercoralis (4%), Taenia species(1%) Trichuris trichiuria (11%), and Toxoplasma gondii (3%). A chi-square test of independence could not determine any significant relationship between parasite occurrence and market as well as fruit type and parasite occurrence.

Conclusion: The percentage of contaminated fruits in this study is high and this is strong evidence that fruit contributes to the spread of parasites within Lagos State. It is recommended that proper sanitation and hygienic practices should be observed from the cultivation of the fruits on the farm till they are put on display at the market. Fruits bought at markets should also be washed properly before consumption.