A recent research by Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) in collaboration with scientists from the world animal Protection, Centre for Microbiology Research has confirmed that raw chicken and Pork sold in both local and International supermarkets in the country are contaminated with bacteria posing serious health threat to Kenyans.
The study revealed a rise in Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) pathogens. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.
The foods pointed out in the research could be in the forefront in spreading rise in AMR due to high use of Antibiotics in their preservation and growth promotion in chicken and pigs.
The more people consume these foods the more likely they are developing antibiotic resistance making it difficult to treat diseases using some Antibiotics that WHO considers crucial to human health.
The research therefore suggests keen adherence to high standards of hygiene in food handling to prevent introduction of bacteria from getting into the food.
The research also pointed out parasitic bacteria such as E. coli at 48.4 percent and Klebsiella spp at 19.1 percent, and foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella spp at 17.8 percent and Staphylococcus spp at 6.7 percent.
“The study’s findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and control measures for bacterial pathogens in the Kenyan food chain, particularly in light of the rising rates of antimicrobial resistance. The data should also raise awareness among consumers about the importance of hygienic practices in handling, storing, and cooking raw meat to prevent foodborne illnesses,” One of the Authors in the research, Dr. Victor Yamo noted.
