Helminth Contamination of Commonly Consumed Raw Vegetables in Sivas Province in the Central Part of Turkey: First Molecular Detection of Human Pathogenic Toxocara canis Eggs in Raw Vegetables

Raw vegetables are the source of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fibers that protect the human body against diseases. On the other hand, these may become sources of parasitic pathogens, which affect human health. This study aimed to assess the presence of helminth species in raw vegetables consumed in Sivas with microscopic and molecular techniques. The study material consisted of 120 vegetable samples (lettuce, parsley, peppermint, rockets, cress, and carrots) obtained from greengrocers, supermarkets, street vendors, and wholesalers. Toxocara spp. eggs, T. leonina eggs, and Rhabditiform larvae were detected in vegetable samples with a prevalence of 5.83%, 3.33%, and 24.17%, respectively. Toxocara spp. eggs were identified as T. canis using polymerase chain reaction. This is the first molecular detection of T. canis eggs in raw vegetables in Turkey. This study revealed that vegetables sold in Sivas are contaminated with helminth eggs or larvae. Therefore, people should take the necessary hygiene precaution, such as washing or sanitizing, before consuming these vegetables.

Cite this article as: Erol, U., Altay, K., Şahin, Ö. F., & Urhan, O. F (2022). Helminth contamination of commonly consumed raw vegetables in sivas province in the central part of turkey: first molecular detection of human pathogenic toxocara canis eggs in raw vegetables. Acta Veterinaria Eurasia., 49(1), 6-12.