ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to determine the level of helminth egg contamination of some common raw fruits and vegetables and their control by washing with different solutions. A total of 96 unwashed and 96 washed fruits and vegetables were bought from a rural market (Ndoro) and an urban market (Umuahia isigate) both in Abia state, within the period of August to October 20 1 0. The fruits and vegetables were bought directly from the markets and checked for helminths by the formol-ether concentration method and viewed under the microscope. Helminth eggs were detected in 52 (54.2%) unwashed samples and none in any washed sample (p<O.05). Ta/mum Iriangu/are (water leaf) a low growth vegetable recorded the highest prevalence rate (20.8 %) while Solanum inacrocapon (Garden egg) was the least contaminated (6.3%). Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworms, Strongyloides stercoralis and Trichuris trichiura were helminths that were detected in only the unwashed samples with A. lumbricoides having the highest occurrence (5 6.8%) and S. Stercoralis having the least prevalence rate (3.1 %).The fruit and vegetable types affected the level of prevalence ( 2 48.01, df21,p<0.05). Data generated and analysized confirm the disinfecting potential of 5% of either salt, Vinegar or Sodium hypochiorite solution which were agents used in sample washing. Simple practice of washing farm produce with any of these washing agents is strongly recommended prior to consumption.