Abstract:
With increased student population and health consciousness in and around University of Kabianga,
Kenya, there has been increased consumption of fruit salad and vegetable salad (Kachumbari) and
consequently an increase in fruits and vegetable vendors. However, there safety concerns due to
an increase in reported cases of diarrhea and stomach related problems among the student
population. The objective of this study will determine the microbiological quality of fruit salads
and vegetable salads sold around University of Kabianga. Fifteen fruit salad samples and vegetable
salad samples, five each from different sampling zones (University of Kabianga gate, Kabianga
Market, and Chepnyogaa Market), will be collected randomly. Fruit salads and Kachumbari were
randomly sampled in Kabianga market, Chepnyogaa market and at the university main gate, and
then transported in clean polythene bags to the laboratory for analysis within two hours. The media
was prepared as per manufacturer‘s instructions. Serial dilution was done and dilutions from10-2
to 10-4 were used. Representatives of unique bacteria colonies were sub-cultured in Nutrient agar
to obtain pure isolates. Bacteria were characterized based on their cultural characteristics.
Enumeration of bacteria colonies on Plate count agar was done using a colony counter machine.
The isolated samples were Gram stained. Biochemical characterization was carried out and
included: Catalase Test, coagulase test. The data was collected and analyzed using spreadsheet and
presented in graphs and tables. The bacterial isolates were identified as; Staphylococcus aureus,
Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli. The salad samples were found to be contaminated hence unsafe
for consumption.
Description:
A Research Project Submitted To The Department Of Biological Sciences, School Of
Science And Technology In Partial Fulfillment Of The Requirements For The Award Of A
Degree Of Bachelor of Science In Microbiology From The University Of Kabianga
